International transport from Austria to France — this real‑world case shows how VANonsite moved a dedicated load from Graz (AT) to Castanet‑Tolosan (FR) with one vehicle, one crew, and live GPS. If you need fast, visible, door‑to‑door delivery across the EU, this blueprint shows what to expect and how we keep risk low.
TL:DR;
- Dedicated, point‑to‑point Graz → Castanet‑Tolosan with precise address‑to‑address timing.
- One van, one crew; no co‑loading, no cross‑docking; predictable ETAs.
- Live GPS tracking from pickup to e‑signature + photo proof on delivery.
- Moving Medium 10 m³ / 600 kg used here; fleet spans 5–90 m³ for other jobs.
- Protection stack: interlocking load, blankets, anti‑slip mats, tension straps.
- Clear roles: client handles load/unload; driver ensures vehicle safety and EU compliance.
- Easy booking: share your list, pick windows, get a fixed quote, track in real time.
Job summary — completed Graz → Castanet‑Tolosan
We moved a consolidated set of boxed personal effects + suitcases from a residential/business address in Graz to a house address in Castanet‑Tolosan (Occitanie, FR). The customer required a direct van, no co‑loading, and a delivery window aligned with the key‑handover at destination. To keep timing tight and risk low, we assigned one vehicle and one crew for the entire corridor, with live GPS from loading to e‑signature.
At a glance
- Pickup: Graz, Austria
- Delivery: Castanet‑Tolosan, France
- Service type: Dedicated, cross‑border, point‑to‑point
- Windows: agreed morning slot at destination; proactive ETA updates shared
- Tracking: live GPS + time‑stamped photos at load/unload
- Paperwork: e‑consignment, e‑POD on delivery
- Outcome: on‑time, no damage, documented chain‑of‑custody
Consignment profile
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Pieces | Mixed cartons + suitcases |
| Declared weight | ≤ 600 kg (within plan) |
| Charged volume | Sized to Moving Medium (10 m³) |
| Packaging | Double‑wall cartons; hard/soft cases; taped & labelled |
| Priority items | Fragile/top‑load placed by the doors |
KPIs & proof
- Punctuality: arrived within the agreed window.
- Integrity: zero damage; interlocking stack + straps + anti‑slip mats.
- Visibility: GPS link active end‑to‑end; photos embedded in the job file.
- Documentation: e‑POD issued within minutes after unload.
Scope of work & constraints
We defined scope and responsibilities upfront to protect timing and cost.
- Access: curbside loading in Graz; standard street access at destination; parking arranged in advance where needed.
- Load profile: boxes and luggage; no hazardous items; fragile items flagged and priority‑placed.
- Assistance: client provided load/unload labour; our driver handled vehicle positioning, weight balance, strapping, and safety checks.
- Compliance: free movement of personal effects within the EU (no customs); driver rest‑time/speed regulations observed; LEZ considerations reviewed for destination access.
- Security & visibility: optional tamper‑evident seals; live GPS link shared only with authorised contacts; photos available on request.
Site‑prep checklist (client)
- Stage items within ~10 m of the vehicle; keep aisles clear.
- Use taped double‑wall cartons; mark fragile/top‑load.
- Keep individual pieces at ≤32 kg for safe manual handling.
- Provide any required building passes or concierge contacts.
What we don’t move
Cash/valuables, loose liquids, dangerous goods (ADR), or perishables without written agreement.
Route plan & timeline — Graz → Castanet‑Tolosan
We planned a direct line‑haul with regulated rest stops and proactive ETA updates. For a corridor of this length, we schedule a daily rest (≥11 h) and multiple short breaks to remain compliant and keep the load secure.
Route & distance at a glance
- Door‑to‑door distance: ~1,600–1,650 km (toll motorways where efficient).
- Typical driving time: ~17–19 h net; elapsed door‑to‑door with regulatory rests: ~28–32 h.
- Monitoring: live GPS + geofenced alerts on city arrival/departure.
- Strap checks: at each break + before re‑start after the daily rest.
| Step | Local time (example) | What we did | Proof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle positioning (Graz) | Day 1, 07:30 | Parked curbside; cones set; quick access survey | Time‑stamped photo |
| Loading (by client) | Day 1, 07:45–08:25 | Items staged near curb; driver verified weight balance; straps + anti‑slip mats | Photo + strap check |
| Depart Graz | Day 1, 08:30 | Direct motorway line‑haul towards FR; tolls enabled for time‑efficiency | Live GPS link shared |
| Break #1 (regulatory) | Day 1, ~12:00 (30 min) | Rest, refuel, strap & tyre check | Tachograph + notes |
| Break #2 (regulatory) | Day 1, ~16:00 (30 min) | Rest; lights/strap re‑check | Tachograph + notes |
| Daily rest (overnight) | Day 1→2, ≥11 h | Guarded parking; load sealed; GPS remains active | GPS breadcrumb + seal nos. |
| Depart after daily rest | Day 2, ~04:30 | Resume line‑haul; ETA update sent to recipient | GPS + ETA message |
| Break #3 (regulatory) | Day 2, ~09:00 (30 min) | Rest; final strap check before arrival | Tachograph + notes |
| Arrival (Castanet‑Tolosan) | Day 2, ~13:30 | Position per instructions; unload to door | Photos |
| Close‑out | Day 2, ~13:45 | e‑POD issued; documents emailed | e‑POD + GPS archive |
Transit KPIs
| KPI | Result |
|---|---|
| GPS uptime | 100% (tracking active from load to e‑signature) |
| Waiting time | Within grace period at both sites |
| Incidents | None reported |
| Compliance | Breaks + daily rest completed per EU rules |
The GPS link remained active from loading to delivery so the recipient could prepare access and parking. Any ETA shifts were pushed automatically.
Vehicle selection & capacity
We size each job to reduce risk and cost. For this route we assigned our Moving Medium plan based on the declared volume and access.
Before choosing a van, we run a quick sizing check and review city‑access constraints (LEZ, street width, parking bays). For residential streets in Castanet‑Tolosan, a compact footprint reduces manoeuvring time and keeps neighbours happy.
Fleet options
| VANonsite plan | Approx. volume | Max load | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | Small luggage sets, documents |
| Moving Medium (used) | 10 m³ | 600 kg | Mixed boxes + suitcases |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1,000 kg | Bulky items + extra bags |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3,500 kg | Small apartment or office |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20,000 kg | Large relocations, events |
Included equipment (Moving Medium)
- Cargo rails both sides; rated tension straps and anti‑slip mats.
- Clean moving blankets between items; corner protection where needed.
- Basic tool kit for strap hardware checks; optional tamper‑evident seals.
What fits (rule of thumb)
60×40×40 cm box ≈ 0.096 m³.
Required m³ ≈ 0.04×cabin + 0.07×medium + 0.10×large suitcases + 10–15% buffer.
Protection & tracking
Even with a self‑load/self‑unload arrangement, your items travel like premium freight. Beyond the basics, we add verification, visibility, and security layers so everyone stays informed without slowing the dock.
- Pre‑departure checks: inventory count, prohibited‑items screening, and strap WLL verification.
- Interlocking stack + moving blankets between cases; corner guards where needed.
- Anti‑slip mats and rated tension straps braced to cargo rails; re‑tension at each rest stop and after daily rest.
- Load map & priority labels: fragile/top‑load zones marked so priority items are accessible on arrival.
- Live GPS link shared at departure; geofenced alerts on city arrival/departure; optional ETA SMS/email to recipients.
- Photo trail & e‑POD: time‑stamped photos at load/unload; seal numbers recorded when seals are used; documents emailed right after delivery.
- Security & privacy: overnight parking (if required) in guarded or well‑lit areas; tracking links shared only with authorised contacts; logs archived on request.
- Compliance: tachograph‑managed rests; LEZ considerations reviewed along the route.
Safety instruments & purpose
| Instrument | What it prevents/assures |
|---|---|
| Anti‑slip mats | Base‑layer shift during braking |
| Rated tension straps | Load movement and tipping |
| Moving blankets & corner guards | Scuffs, abrasion, pressure points |
| Tamper‑evident seals (optional) | Unauthorised access between stops |
| GPS link + geofencing | Real‑time location, timely handovers |
Loading & unloading responsibilities
To keep the slot tight, roles were agreed in writing. Below is the responsibilities summary and a short prep checklist for this corridor.
Responsibilities
- Client staged items within ~10 m of the vehicle and provided on‑site labour.
- Driver ensured vehicle safety (balance, strapping, braking tests) and documentation; may pause loading if unsafe.
- Equipment such as dollies or pallet jacks was supplied by the client when needed.
Client prep checklist
- Stage items by order of unloading; keep a clear, level path.
- Use taped double‑wall cartons; mark fragile/top‑load; list counts.
- Keep pieces ≤32 kg for safe manual handling; flag heavier pieces in advance.
- Reserve curb space/parking where possible; share concierge or gate details.
- Prepare building passes/permits (if any) before the van arrives.
Do & Don’t at the curb
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Confirm counts against the consignment list | Block emergency exits or lifts |
| Flag fragile/priority items early | Load leaking liquids or hazardous goods |
| Keep aisles clear and dry | Stack unsafely or exceed floor limits |
Need hands‑on help next time? Add our White Glove Delivery team for two‑person carry, room placement, and debris removal.
Pricing logic — how we build a fixed quote
Your rate depends on:
- Distance & route (Graz → Castanet‑Tolosan; toll roads where efficient, LEZ/planned parking considered).
- Van plan & weight (sized to your declared m³/kg; this case used 10 m³ / ≤600 kg).
- Time windows (overnight, weekend, or tight 60–120 min slots).
- Access factors (waiting time, long carries/stairs, permits/concierge).
- Add‑ons (Packing Service, White Glove, short‑term storage).
Included vs optional (what’s in your base quote)
| Included in base | Optional add‑ons | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated van & driver | Packing Service (pro materials + packing) | Base covers line‑haul + vehicle time |
| Direct routing + GPS link | White Glove Delivery (two‑person carry) | Add labour when you need inside carry |
| e‑POD + time‑stamped photos | Short‑term Storage | Useful for date gaps or staged deliveries |
| Standard carrier liability | Full‑value protection (insurance upgrade) | Match cover to declared value |
Potential surcharges (only if triggered)
- Waiting beyond grace period at pickup/delivery.
- Long carries (>25–30 m), stair‑only access, or lift failure.
- Parking/LEZ permits, concierge fees, or restricted loading bays.
- Additional stops, re‑delivery, or scope changes after dispatch.
Discounts & efficiencies
- Accurate m³/kg + photos → right‑sized van, leaner cost.
- Staging items ≤10 m from the van; realistic windows.
- Off‑peak or overnight positioning to avoid traffic/queuing.
Typical scenarios (no prices, for sizing only)
| Scenario | Load profile | Likely plan | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light personal effects | 12–18 boxes (60×40×40) + 4–6 suitcases (~3–4 m³ / ≤250 kg) | Moving Basic (5 m³) | Quick curb‑to‑curb; standard windows |
| Mixed boxes + luggage (this case) | ~25–35 items (~6–9 m³ / ≤600 kg) | Moving Medium (10 m³) | Overnight line‑haul; AM delivery |
| Bulky + extras | 40–60 items, some bulky (~10–14 m³ / ≤900 kg) | Moving Premium (15 m³) | Add White Glove for inside carry |
Payment & terms (typical)
- Payment by invoice, card, or bank transfer.
- Quote validity stated on the offer; insurance options shown at quoting.
- Rescheduling/cancellation: possible per booking terms (share constraints early for best outcome).
How booking works (step‑by‑step)
- Share your list (bags/boxes, approx. m³/kg) + photos; note fragile/priority items.
- Pick your windows for pickup/delivery and flag access constraints (LEZ, concierge, loading bay).
- Get a fixed quote matched to the right van plan (5–90 m³) with inclusions and any add‑ons.
- Confirm & track — booking reference issued; live GPS link shared at loading.
- Delivery & documents — e‑signature at the door; receive e‑POD, photos, and (on request) a GPS log archive.
What we need from you to quote fast
- Exact addresses + contact names and phone numbers.
- Desired time windows and any building rules.
- Approx. m³/kg, item counts, and photos (phone snaps are fine).
- Access notes: stairs/lift, long carry distance, parking/LEZ.
Operational SLA (typical)
| Stage | Typical SLA | Output |
|---|---|---|
| Quote turnaround | Same business day (often within hours) | Fixed quote with plan & ETA options |
| Van assignment | Immediately after confirmation | Booking reference + dispatcher contact |
| GPS activation | At loading | Shareable tracking link |
| Proof of delivery | ≤15 minutes after unload | e‑POD + photos emailed |
FAQs
How fast is Graz → Castanet‑Tolosan?
Direct line‑haul with regulated breaks and a daily rest; elapsed door‑to‑door typically ~28–32 h, depending on windows and access.
Do I need customs documents within the EU?
For personal effects moving Austria → France, no customs are required. Please provide contact names and phone numbers for each address.
Can I track the van?
Yes — you get a live GPS link from loading to e‑signature and can share it with family, concierge, or building management.
What are the pickup/delivery windows?
Standard 60–120 min windows. Tighter or out‑of‑hours slots are available on request.
Can you help with packing or lifting?
Yes — add our Packing Service (materials + pro packing) or White Glove Delivery (two‑person carry, room placement).
Is there a weight limit per item?
We recommend ≤32 kg per single piece for safe manual handling. Heavier items require appropriate equipment and time.
What fits in 10 m³?
Typically 20–35 mixed suitcases/boxes up to 600 kg. See capacity tables above for examples.
What about parking, LEZ and permits?
We plan for LEZ access and can arrange short‑stay parking permits or concierge coordination where required.
Can you store my items between dates?
Yes — we offer short‑term storage with labeling/seals and continue the run on your chosen date.
What if my plans change?
We can reschedule within your chosen week where possible. Waiting beyond the grace period or rerouting may incur a fee.
What’s covered by insurance?
Standard carrier liability is included; full‑value protection is available during quoting.
What can’t you carry?
No hazardous goods (ADR), loose liquids, cash/valuables, or perishables without written agreement.
How do I pay?
By invoice, card, or bank transfer. You receive e‑POD and photos immediately after delivery.
Can you add extra stops or reverse the route?
Yes — multi‑stop Austria ↔ France routes are available; ETAs and pricing adjust accordingly.
Summary — International Transport from Austria to France (Graz → Castanet‑Tolosan)
VANonsite delivered a dedicated, door‑to‑door run from Graz to Castanet‑Tolosan. We used a Moving Medium 10 m³ / ≤600 kg van with one vehicle and one crew, no co‑loading, and live GPS visible from loading to e‑signature. The route followed a direct motorway line‑haul with regulated breaks and an overnight daily rest, arriving on time with zero damage. Documentation (photos + e‑POD) was issued immediately after delivery.
Key takeaways:
- Scope & roles: client handled load/unload; driver ensured vehicle safety (weight balance, strapping) and compliance.
- Protection stack: interlocking stack, anti‑slip mats, rated tension straps, blankets/corner guards; priority zones for fragile items.
- Tracking & docs: shareable GPS link, optional geofenced alerts, photo trail, and e‑POD for a clear chain‑of‑custody.
- Pricing logic: driven by distance/route, van plan & weight, time windows, site access, and optional add‑ons (Packing, White Glove, Storage).
- Booking flow: share m³/kg + photos → pick windows → receive a fixed quote → track live from loading → e‑signature & documents.
- Scalability: fleet from 5–90 m³ to match anything from light luggage to larger household or office moves.
Ready to plan yours?
• Austria: https://vanonsite.com/removals-to-austria/
• France: https://vanonsite.com/removals-to-france/
