Moving to Norway from UK should feel exciting, not exhausting. Think clear steps, crisp timelines, and zero guesswork. With VANonsite, your move runs on precision, pro packing, and live GPS on every load. We size your inventory in honest cubic meters, match it to the right van tier, and guide your customs paperwork so used household goods can enter duty free when eligible.
Pick part load for lean costs and greener miles. Choose a dedicated van for a fixed delivery day and total control. From Dover to Oslo, Bergen, or Sommarøy, we wrap, strap, and track every piece. Safe. Swift. Transparent.
Get your tailored quote today and follow your shipment on a live map.
TL:DR
- Check post‑Brexit rules first. Confirm visas, work or study permits, and stays over 90 days.
- Claim duty‑free entry for used household goods when eligible. Keep an itemised inventory and proofs.
- Choose part load to save money or a dedicated van for a fixed delivery day.
- Match your volume to the right van tier from 5 m³ to 90 m³.
- Protect fragile items with pro packing or White Glove care.
- Costs depend on distance, cubic meters, access, ferries or tunnel, season, and service level.
- On arrival handle D‑number, BankID, GP registration, AutoPASS, and local recycling.
Quick‑Start Checklist for UK → Norway Moves
Stay ahead of ferry slots, customs timing, and winter roads. Start early, size your load honestly, and pick the transport model that fits your dates and budget.
| Stage | Key tasks | Who handles it | Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan | Video survey, inventory, access check | You + VANonsite | 3–6 weeks out | Reserve ferry friendly dates |
| Pack | Decide self pack or pro pack, label by room | You / VANonsite | 1–3 weeks | Add crates for fragile art |
| Paperwork | Residency proofs, inventory, broker authorisation | You + VANonsite | 1–2 weeks | Duty free eligibility check |
| Ferries/Tunnel | Reserve crossings, allow buffers for weather | VANonsite | 1–2 weeks | Flexible rescheduling where possible |
| Parking & Permits | Book building lifts and street permits | You + VANonsite | 3–7 days | Council or building manager approval |
| Transport | Choose part load or dedicated van, confirm route | VANonsite | Booking | Live GPS link on dispatch |
| Insurance & Valuation | Confirm cover and declare high value items | You + VANonsite | Before loading | Photos and serial numbers help |
| Arrival | Unload, placement, debris removal, storage if needed | VANonsite | Delivery day | Confirm lift and parking slots |
Pro tips: keep documents in one folder, bag hardware for flat packed items, and stage boxes near the exit to speed load out.
How VANonsite Handles UK → Norway Removals
H3: Step‑by‑step
- Fast consultation and fixed scope quote. See Removals to Norway.
- Volume calculation mapped to 5–90 m³ vehicles with slack for bulky sofas and wardrobes.
- Packing choices that protect. Book Packing Services or premium White Glove Delivery.
- Customs dossier and brokerage support. Duty free for used household goods when rules are met.
- Load out with building protections. Floor guards, door covers, and careful stairwell handling. Ferry or tunnel timing included.
- In transit visibility with live GPS and proactive updates.
- Delivery, placement, optional debris removal and short term storage.
- Final checks and sign off. Waybill references and photos for your records.
H3: Part Load vs Dedicated Van
| Option | Best for | Why choose it | Typical delivery | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part load | Small to medium shipments | Lower cost, greener miles, GPS tracked | Delivery window | Ideal when dates are flexible |
| Dedicated van | Tight timelines or premium pieces | Direct route, full control, fastest path | Date specific | Best for art, antiques, complex access |
Choose part load for value and shared routes. Choose a dedicated van for total control and a locked delivery day.
Moving to Norway from UK Requirements
Post‑Brexit, British citizens no longer have EU free movement in Norway. Short visits remain visa‑free for many passport holders, but most stays over 90 days require a residence permit. Your furniture can often enter duty free when you are relocating your normal residence. Below is a clear, action‑ready summary with official links.
Immigration and residency
- Who needs a permit: If you plan to work, study, or join family in Norway for more than 90 days, apply for a residence permit. Start with the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) and, when required, book an appointment via the Royal Norwegian Embassy in the UK or a visa application centre.
- Permit types: Work, Skilled Worker, Seasonal Worker, Student, Family Immigration. UDI explains eligibility, documents, and timelines.
- Mixed nationality households: EU/EEA family members may follow different rules. Check UDI’s family pages for the correct path.
National Registry and ID numbers
- D‑number vs National ID: New arrivals who do not yet qualify for a national identity number are often issued a D‑number. It allows banking and tax setup. When you settle long term, you will be assigned a national identity number after registering your address.
- Where to register: Notify the Population Register and handle tax onboarding with the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten). General guidance is also available at Norge.no.
Customs and duty‑free import of used household goods
- Eligibility: You can usually import used household goods duty and VAT free when relocating to Norway, provided the items have been owned and used by you and you import them within a typical window around your move. Read the rules and forms at Norwegian Customs (Toll).
- What you prepare: An itemised inventory by box and room, proof of your move to Norway, proof of previous residence outside Norway, and a signed authorisation if we submit on your behalf.
- What is excluded: Alcohol, tobacco, and some restricted items follow separate allowances. New or unopened purchases may be taxed.
- How we help: VANonsite assembles a compliant dossier, provides the waybill, and coordinates with a customs broker. You receive a live GPS link so you always know where your shipment is.
Vehicles and driving
- Using a UK‑registered car: Temporary use rules apply. Long term stays usually require import and registration in Norway. See the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen) for import, registration, and tyre rules.
- Road tolls: Norway uses electronic tolling. Set up visitors’ payment or a tag with AutoPASS.
Pets
- Entry requirements: Dogs and cats must meet microchip and rabies vaccination rules. Some pets require tapeworm treatment and an official health certificate. Check the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) and Customs for border procedures.
Documents checklist
| Document | Purpose | Who provides |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Identity | You |
| Residence permit approval or appointment | Legal stay path | You / UDI |
| Detailed inventory list | What you are importing, box by box | You + VANonsite template |
| Proof of move to Norway | Work contract, tenancy, home purchase, or school letter | You |
| Proof of prior residence outside Norway | Deregistration or utility bills | You |
| Transport papers | CMR/waybill and GPS references | VANonsite |
| Power of attorney for customs | Let a broker lodge your declaration | You |
Timeline at a glance
- 4–6 weeks out: Start UDI application, gather proofs, book video survey with VANonsite.
- 2–3 weeks out: Finalise inventory, reserve ferry or tunnel slots, decide part load or dedicated van.
- Week of loading: Sign broker authorisation, pack and label, photograph valuable pieces.
- Arrival week: Collect keys, confirm parking and lift access, register address, arrange D‑number if needed.
Costs — What Changes from a UK Start
Starting in the UK adds a few variables you should plan for early. Ferries or tunnel bookings, post‑Brexit customs steps, and winter windows can influence timing and price. Your total depends on distance, cubic meters, access, service level, season, and how fixed your delivery window is.
Cost drivers to watch
- Ferries or tunnel: crossing type, seasonal surcharges, and rescheduling rules.
- Customs after Brexit: brokerage fees and paperwork. Used household goods may be duty free when eligible.
- Distance and route: corridor choice, traffic, and weather buffers.
- Volume and weight: honest m³ sizing prevents overflows and extra runs.
- Access at both ends: stairs, narrow doors, long carries, parking permits.
- Service level: self pack, pro Packing Service, or White Glove care.
- Delivery window: part load saves money with flexible dates; dedicated van gives a fixed day.
Van tiers and typical use cases
| Van tier | Typical volume | Best for | Relative price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic (5 m³) | Up to 5 m³ | Small removals, students | Low | Works well as part load |
| Moving Medium (10 m³) | Up to 10 m³ | Studio or tight one‑bed | Low‑mid | Budget dedicated option |
| Moving Premium (15 m³) | Up to 15 m³ | One‑bed homes | Mid | Popular UK → Norway size |
| Moving Premium Plus (30 m³) | Up to 30 m³ | Family setups | Mid‑high | Fewer trips, smoother plan |
| Full House XXL (90 m³) | Up to 90 m³ | Whole‑house projects | High | Direct route, complex moves |
For an exact figure, request a short video survey. We will size your load in cubic meters, map the right van, and send a clear quote. Start here: Removals to Norway.
Packing That Protects — From Flat‑Pack to Fine Art
UK weather, sea crossings, and long corridors need better protection than a quick wrap. We pack with purpose so every piece arrives ready to live.
Standard packing that works
- Double wall cartons, furniture blankets, corner guards, and stretch wrap for a tight, protective fit.
- Mattress and sofa covers to block moisture and grit during crossings and winter roads.
- Clear labels by room and priority for fast placement at delivery.
- Floor, door, and lift protection to keep buildings spotless.
Fragile, art, and statement pieces
- Custom timber crates for glass, marble, artwork, and designer furniture.
- Climate aware wraps and desiccants for winter crossings and coastal humidity.
- Shock and tilt indicators so handling stays careful end to end.
- Optional lift‑van for museum‑grade protection on longer routes.
Self pack or pro pack
- Self pack saves money when you have time and sturdy materials.
- Pro pack adds speed and peace of mind. We bring materials, pack room by room, and document condition before loading.
Premium care: White Glove Delivery
When only perfect will do, choose our White Glove option for antiques, heirlooms, and designer pieces.
- Discreet load out, direct routing, and careful placement by room.
- Basic assembly where agreed and debris removal so your new space feels ready.
Explore services: Packing Services, White Glove Delivery, and Furniture Removals.
City & Route Mini‑Guides
Norway rewards planning. Cities each have a rhythm, and remote islands run on ferry timetables and weather windows. A few local insights make a big difference.
Oslo
- Book building lifts and short street permits in advance. Respect toll rings to avoid detours.
- Narrow stairwells and courtyards benefit from slim trolleys and extra hands.
- Aim for short, efficient unloads to minimise costs and neighbourhood disruption.
- Winter ready moves need tyre checks, grit for pathways, and swift unloads in low temps.
- Consider evening or early morning slots when traffic is lighter and parking is simpler.
See our local page: Moving to Oslo, Norway.
Bergen
- Expect rain. Use extra wrap layers and covered staging for wood and fabrics.
- Heritage streets and tight turns call for compact vehicles and patient routing.
- Add contingency time for showers around Bryggen and central zones.
- Check building rules in older districts. Lift access and stair widths can limit item size.
- Use towels or door mats to protect floors from wet gear on rainy days.
Guide here: Moving to Bergen, Norway.
Sommarøy
- Align pickup with ferry schedules and seasonal daylight. Winter needs buffer days.
- Compact vehicles help with smaller bridges and island access.
- Deliveries feel smoother with flexible windows and early communication.
- Pack for cold snaps. Use moisture guards and extra blankets for sensitive finishes.
- Confirm last mile directions in advance. Phone signal can be patchy near some crossings.
Plan ahead: Moving to Sommarøy, Norway.
UK origin routing notes
- Choose your Channel crossing early. Build buffers for weather and port traffic.
- Routes via Denmark or Sweden into Norway can avoid mountain passes in winter.
- Share your preferred window. We match it to ferries and roadworks calendars.
Small Removals, Students, and Part Load
Light loads travel best when the plan is lean. If you are moving a bed frame, desk, bike, and a few boxes, you do not need a giant truck. You need precision, clear dates, and a price that makes sense.
Smart options for light loads
- Part load on the UK → Norway corridor. Pay only for the cubic meters you use and still get live GPS.
- Shared vans with well planned windows. We group compatible routes so everyone saves.
- Curbside or door to door. Choose curbside handover to save time or full placement for convenience.
Student moves made simple
- Compact pickups from dorms and shared flats with fast load outs.
- Storage between semesters so you pack once and relax.
- Budget friendly slots with clear, timely updates.
See also: Student Removals.
What fits in each small tier
| Tier | Typical contents | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 5 m³ | Bed frame, chair, 10 to 15 boxes | Minimalist student or short term move |
| 10 m³ | Sofa, table, bike, 20 to 25 boxes | Studio or tight one bed |
| 15 m³ | Two seater sofa, wardrobe, 30 boxes | Standard one bed |
Fast booking flow
- Send a short video walk through of your items.
- Pick part load or a small dedicated van tier.
- Choose your delivery window and add storage if needed.
- Get your live GPS link and relax while we do the heavy lifting.
Pro tip: flat pack large items, bag the hardware, and tape it to each piece.
Insurance, Safety & Live Tracking
Peace of mind travels with your goods. We combine proven packing methods, insured transport, and live GPS so you always know where things stand.
Coverage overview
- Standard goods in transit cover for used household items.
- Optional increased valuation for premium pieces and art.
- Exclusions often include cash, perishables, and items not packed to standard.
Coverage snapshot
| Cover type | Applies to | Typical limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goods in transit | Used household goods packed to standard | Varies by policy | Wear and tear not covered |
| Increased valuation | Antiques, art, high value design | Declared item value | Requires photo log and pro packing |
| Storage cover | Short term storage between keys | Limited period | List storage start and end dates |
Keep coverage valid
- Use sturdy cartons and proper padding. Avoid overfilled boxes.
- Label fragile items and mark top facing arrows.
- Photograph premium items before packing and after delivery.
- Tell us about pre‑existing damage so notes match reality.
How claims work
- Inspect on delivery and note issues on the waybill.
- Photograph the item and keep packaging for review.
- Share your inventory line, photos, and a brief description to open a claim. We guide each step.
- Submit within a reasonable time frame. Faster is better for review and resolution.
Safety protocol end to end
- Condition notes at pickup with labels that match your inventory.
- Floor, door, and lift protection at both ends.
- Secure strapping and no‑movement loading patterns inside the van.
- Weather aware routing with buffers for ferries and snow.
- Seals on crates for long legs and ferry crossings.
Live GPS and driver assistance
- Real time tracking link for your shipment. No guesswork.
- Dynamic ETA updates and geofenced checkpoints at borders and ports.
- Proactive messages about ferries, weather, and customs milestones.
- Driver assistance at pickup and delivery when you need extra hands.
Arrival in Norway — First‑Week To‑Dos
Your first week sets the tone. Handle the essentials early and daily life falls into place fast.
Ten quick wins
- Register your address with the Population Register at Skatteetaten. Bring ID and your tenancy or purchase contract.
- Arrange a D‑number or national ID number during registration if you do not have one yet.
- Apply for your tax deduction card (skattekort) at Skatteetaten to avoid emergency withholding.
- Open a bank account and set up BankID once approved. Many services rely on BankID.
- Choose a GP (fastlege) via Helsenorge and keep interim health cover handy until registered.
- Get a local SIM and home internet. It speeds up online banking and BankID.
- Set up AutoPASS for toll roads at autopass.no.
- Read winter tyre rules and road guidance at Statens vegvesen.
- Learn local recycling and bulk waste booking on your municipality website. Keep boxes flat for easier pickup.
- If you brought pets, confirm pet registration and vet checks per Mattilsynet.
Mini checklist
| Task | Where | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Address registration | Skatteetaten | Book an appointment if prompted |
| D‑number / ID | Skatteetaten | Needed for bank, tax, and some contracts |
| Bank + BankID | Your bank | Bring ID, address docs, and D‑number |
| GP selection | Helsenorge | Change later if needed |
| AutoPASS | autopass.no | Add vehicle plate and payment card |
| Winter rules | Statens vegvesen | Tyres, chains, speed in snow |
| Recycling | Municipality site | Cardboard, glass, electronics |
| Pets | Mattilsynet | Records, vaccinations, chip |
FAQs
- Can British citizens move to Norway? Yes. Short visits are often visa free, but stays over 90 days usually require a residence permit. Start with UDI. The Norwegian Embassy in the UK shows where to apply. See GOV.UK guidance for extra tips.
- Is it hard to move into Norway? It is manageable with preparation. Secure the right permit, gather proofs, and plan customs early. We guide paperwork and timing so the process stays clear.
- How much money do you need to move to Norway? Budget for transport, deposits, initial rent, and setup costs. Add permit fees and travel. For shipping, price depends on distance, volume, access, and service level. Choose part load to save or a dedicated van for speed. Get a tailored quote on Removals to Norway.
- Is it more expensive to live in Norway than the UK? Daily costs are generally higher in Norway. Salaries and benefits can offset this for many residents. Plan a runway of a few months for housing, transport, and groceries.
- How much would it cost to move to Norway from the UK? No single price fits all. Cost is driven by cubic meters, route, ferries or tunnel, access, and packing level. Part load is the best value. Dedicated vans give a fixed delivery day. Share a quick video survey for an exact figure.
- Moving to Norway from UK requirements — what papers do I need? Passport, residence permit approval or appointment, proof of move, proof of previous residence, and an itemised inventory. See UDI for residence documents and Skatteetaten for registration after arrival.
- What customs forms and inventory are required? For duty free import of used household goods you need a detailed inventory, proof of relocation, and transport papers. Check Norwegian Customs for forms and rules. We can submit via a broker with your authorisation.
- Can I use part load for a cheaper UK → Norway move? Yes. You share van space and pay only for the volume you use. Dates are flexible, and you still get live GPS and careful handling.
- How long does the move take door to door? Typical UK to Norway routes take about 3 to 7 days. Dedicated vans can be faster. Weather and ferry slots can add buffers.
- Can you handle antiques and art? Yes. We offer custom crates, climate aware wraps, shock indicators, and White Glove Delivery for placement and careful finishing.
Summary
Moving to Norway from UK can be calm, clear, and on time. Start early, measure your load in honest cubic meters, and pick the transport that fits: part load to save, or a dedicated van for a fixed delivery day. We protect every piece with pro packing, crates for art and antiques, and optional White Glove care. Used household goods can often enter duty free when you meet the rules, and we guide the paperwork while you track the journey live with GPS.
Total cost depends on distance, volume, access, season, and whether you take a ferry or the tunnel. Our city notes for Oslo, Bergen, and Sommarøy help with parking, weather, and ferry timing. Students and light loads travel lean with shared vans and storage between semesters. Insurance, safety protocols, and a simple claims flow safeguard each mile. Land well with the first week checklist for D‑number, BankID, GP, and AutoPASS.
Ready to move without the chaos? Request your tailored quote on Removals to Norway and follow your shipment on a live map.
