I want to ship my vehicle, what are the implications - NM Europe

Frequently asked questions

NM Europe believes in clear communication from the outset. Doing the research on your move in the early planning stages will ensure not only a smooth moving process but also your peace of mind at what can be a very stressful time. To help kickstart your research, here are some frequently asked questions from our clients:

If you have a question that is not included here, do get in touch with us via info@nmeurope.com.

How much will my move cost?
It's impossible to answer this question without an experienced surveyor's assessment. NM Europe will provide you with a free survey and estimate in most of France, western Switzerland and northern Italy. Some remote or rural areas will be subject to a fee. The price depends on pick-up and delivery access conditions (which may require extra parking permits, manpower and equipment) as well as custom-made crating, should it be required.

Will I need insurance?
This point is imperative. Insurance is your safety net should anything be lost or damaged during transport. NM Europe can provide you with insurance cover for your move and can advise you on what action to be taken in case of a claim. We strongly recommend that you read your policy carefully, including the small print, and familiarize yourself with the claims procedure, as you will have to act quickly should there be any damage or loss.

Do I have to pay duty on my property?
The transfer of household goods from one continent to another is usually exempt of tax and duties, provided that you can supply the proper documentation to the customs authorities in the country of destination. This documentation can vary from country to country and sometimes needs to be obtained before you leave your country of origin. Don't leave it to the last minute!

While the import of household goods to a primary residence is duty-free, the duty on household goods imported to secondary residences varies from country to country. If your secondary residence is in France, you can import household goods duty-free to furnish it. (Your goods will still be liable to a VAT charge of 19.6%.) This is a one-time-only procedure. Should you wish to make a second shipment, you will have to pay 19.6% VAT of the declared value of your goods as well as a further 10% in duties.

In order to qualify for the duty-free entry of your goods, you must apply to the tax collector in the area where your secondary residence is located.

To import my household goods duty-free to France, will I need a change-of-residence certificate even though I am not a French national?
Yes. This will prove that you have lived outside of French territory for the twelve months before your move and are therefore entitled to import your goods free from duty. You can get this form from your local French embassy or consulate.

I want to ship my vehicle, what are the implications?
Various rules and duties apply concerning the import of vehicles depending on which country or continent you want to import to, the make, year and model of your vehicle. For example it is not always viable to import an older vehicle due to the different levels of admissible carbon-dioxide emissions. Your local vehicle authority can carry out a basic-emissions test for you.