Removals To Spain

Visit the Spanish region of your choice at different times during the year to see how you would cope with the climate as I can assure you, it is very different to the UK. Your needs as a resident will be different from your needs as a holiday visitor.

You need to find out the advantages and potential pitfalls of living in another country on a trial basis first if possible to help you to gain a better understanding of the lifestyle without giving up your home in the UK. If you have been to the country as a tourist you probably haven't seen it out of season. If the climate is the main reason for moving, find out what to expect in all seasons. You may be surprised to find their winter is surprisingly harsh at times. If you know someone who has already moved there, get in touch with them and ask them about the things you're interested in.

Once you have found your dream home, moving to Spain is fairly easy. There are numerous removal companies that handle removals to Spain and several companies that specialise in it. If you're looking for a dedicated, straight move from you house here in the UK direct to your new Spanish home, then you can be looking at a fairly expensive process. However there are other, cost effective solutions.

If you're not in an immediate hurry to see your belongings, there is any number of companies that would be willing to give you a substantial discount if you're prepared to wait for a "scheduled delivery". This is where the removals company will bring two or three removals over at the same time to save fuel, wages and the like, and will pass these savings on to you. This method takes longer, but usually you should see your things within a couple of weeks.

Please remember, it's not unusual for boxes to take a slight bashing when being exported and many insurance firms won't cover your breakables unless they have been packed by a professional removal company.

Of course the even cheaper option is to hire or van and move everything yourself. If you are thinking of doing this, be sure you write down a full and extensive inventory of EVERYTHING you're carrying in case Spanish customs ask for it. Normally, seeing a well presented and comprehensive list is enough to satisfy their curiosity.

Most of the main roads are almost traffic free and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the lack of traffic chaos, even in the larger, busier cities like Madrid. There are exceptions of course, so for your information, Spanish rush hours are approximately: 13:00 - 15:00 & 19:00 - 20:30. Personally, I think part of the fun of moving to Spain is the drive down to your new home. The road-side cafes are wonderful with fantastic food. One think to bear in mind though, carry cash. Most of the smaller petrol stations and shops along the way don't accept credit cards.

As it's a long way to Spain, you may want to consider breaking the journey up into "legs" so you can take in some sights and admire some of the scenery. Be sure to book hotels with secure parking along the way, as you have all of your possessions with you.

If the drive all the way down through France seems a bit daunting, you could always take the Portsmouth to Bilbao ferry, which takes 2 days but does mean a lot less driving once you get to Spain. I wouldn't recommend using the ferry in October though, as it can get really rough.