How do you find the right removals company for your move to France?

Fidete, sed verificate – trust but verify. How do you find the right professional mover for you when relocating to France? Scott Middleton has the answers…

Moving is stressful, and moving to France or elsewhere in Europe from the UK can be even more so. Many people only move once or twice in their lifetime, and every home brings its own unique challenges with it.

In my profession as a removal consultant, the core function is to ensure that there are no surprises on the day of the move – for us or for you. We document every step to avoid surprises, disputes or misunderstandings. Most reputable removal companies will offer to carry out a home visit to ascertain what you want to move, which will help remove unexpected costs by providing a written quotation. We carry this survey out either in person or by video link, and offer key advice throughout on packing and on how the move will operate going forward.

Not every company works to this standard, however, so how do you quickly narrow down your list of movers to professionals in this industry?

One of the best places to start is with companies that belong to an industry trade association. The British Association of Removers (BAR), for example, has been at the forefront of representing and regulating the removals industry in the UK for over a century. Membership is only open to companies that meet strict standards of professionalism, conduct and consumer protection.

Only the BAR offers the Advance Payment Guarantee scheme, which protects your payments even if the removal company was to cease trading in the UK. For moves outside the UK, this protection is typically only available through members of the BAR’S Overseas Group, making it essential to check your mover’s membership status.

As well as financial protection, BAR members offer clients support through an independent consumer affairs department, which helps resolve complaints quickly and fairly. The alternative dispute resolution scheme provides an impartial process if disputes can’t be settled directly. This offers a commitment to consumer satisfaction and industry integrity.

The BAR has an excellent ‘Find a mover’ tool on its website (bar.co.uk) that allows you to search for accredited companies for a move overseas. Choosing a removal company that is part of the BAR Overseas Group is the best option for moves to France or wider Europe, as the UK is now outside the EU and customs rules do apply.

While some independent associations also exist such as the Guild of Removers and Storers, and the Association of Independent Movers, within the industry it is understood that the BAR remains the leading body with the most robust consumer protections, industry engagement and oversight. However, any industry-specific association is worth discussing further, to ensure the same scope and standards are on offer.

By verifying a company’s credentials at the outset, you take a major step toward ensuring your move is handled professionally, transparently and with the highest levels of care. Companies that boast more general affiliations that are not industry-specific may be worth avoiding. Some associations are a pay-to-enter arrangement, with minimal or no requirements to join.

Since Brexit, customs procedures for moving to Europe have become more complex, with each EU country applying its own rules for goods arriving from the UK. While many are broadly similar, there are key differences that can easily catch people out.

For example, France applies duties and taxes if you are furnishing a second home while maintaining UK residency. To qualify for duty-free entry when relocating your primary residence, specific documents must be submitted, some of which may only be available once you are living in France. This could potentially require a period of storage before the move is completed, which most BAR members will be able to offer. This is why it is essential to choose a mover with genuine experience in European removals and customs formalities. Involving your chosen company early ensures the right documents are prepared for the specific destination you are moving to.

For relocation to Europe, it is essential your mover holds the correct transport licences. This includes a UK Heavy Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence and a Standard International Licence, both of which are legally required to move goods into Europe from the UK.

Some companies like to subcontract European moves to other removal firms, which is perfectly valid, however, customers should be informed in advance and have the process explained clearly. It’s worth asking the company representative who is surveying or discussing the move with you whether they will be running to Europe in their own trucks with their own removal personnel, or if they are subcontracting.

At the end of the day, your move is too important to leave to chance or reputation. Finding and trusting a professional mover is essential when relocating to France. Choosing an accredited member of a recognised industry trade association ensures you are working with a company that meets the highest standards, offers full consumer protection and has the experience to handle even the most complex moves.

Scott Middleton is a removal consultant at GB Liners

Tel: 0808 1000 988

gbliners.com

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