Moving to Ghent blends canal-side calm with creative buzz. Medieval towers watch over bike lanes, indie cafés, and a thriving university scene. Here, history and innovation sit shoulder to shoulder, and daily life unfolds at a human pace.
Your move deserves the same balance of beauty and precision. Think swift scheduling, careful handling, transparent pricing, and live GPS so you always know where your belongings are. With VANonsite you get trained crews, right-sized vehicles, and optional White Glove care for delicate pieces. From first box to final placement, the plan is crystal clear.
Get a tailored, GPS-tracked quote now → Removals to Belgium
TL;DR
- Book 4 to 6 weeks ahead for best dates. In a rush? Choose Last Minute Moving.
- Follow your shipment live with built-in GPS and proactive ETAs.
- Match the van to your inventory fast: 5 m³ 300 kg, 10 m³ 600 kg, 15 m³ 1000 kg, 30 m³ 3500 kg, 90 m³ 20000 kg.
- Go hands-free with Packing Services; protect premium items with White Glove Delivery.
- Paperwork first: register promptly at your commune. Federal overview at belgium.be, city info at stad.gent.
- Plan access and parking early. Check temporary curb-space guidance on stad.gent.
- Save money with midweek moves, precise inventories, and the right van size from the start.
- Lock your route, dates, and price → Removals to Belgium.
Why Ghent
Ghent rewards people who love culture and convenience. It is lively without the rush, historic without feeling stuck, and wonderfully bike-first. Wake to bell towers, cycle along quiet canals, and still make a fast train to Brussels for a morning meeting. Evenings are for waterside terraces, galleries, and easy strolls home.
What makes Ghent stand out
- Creative energy powered by Ghent University and design studios that spill ideas into the streets.
- Compact and connected with frequent trains to Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, and the coast, so travel stays simple.
- Green lifestyle with canals, parks, and dense cycling networks that make daily errands effortless.
- Family-friendly neighbourhoods with schools, sports clubs, and pocket parks within easy reach.
- A joyful food scene from beloved veggie institutions to buzzing waterfront terraces and weekly markets.
- International mindset where English is widely understood and newcomers feel welcome.
Who thrives here
- Researchers, designers, startup teams, and remote workers who want focus and inspiration in one place.
- Families seeking space, safety, and short commutes without sacrificing culture.
- Students and first-job movers who want nightlife, museums, and green routes on the doorstep.
Connectivity snapshot
| From Ghent to | Typical Time | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels Central | 35–45 min | Train |
| Antwerp | 50–65 min | Train |
| Bruges | 25–35 min | Train |
| Brussels Airport (BRU) | 55–75 min | Train |
| Ostend | 40–55 min | Train |
| E17 or E40 | 5–15 min | Car |
Lock your date early → Removals to Belgium
Your 7-Step Moving Timeline
Turn move week from chaos into calm with this simple timeline. Each step is short, punchy, and proven.
- 60 to 45 days
- Set your budget ceiling and a 2 to 3 day date window.
- Shortlist movers, collect like-for-like quotes, and check reviews.
- Measure sofas, wardrobes, appliances, and hallway or lift sizes.
- Note access at both addresses including floor number, stair width, and loading zone length.
- 45 to 30 days
- Book your date and match the right vehicle size to your inventory.
- Ask building management about lift pads, wall protection, and time windows.
- If street space is tight, check stad.gent for temporary curb-space guidance.
- Decide on Packing Services or order quality boxes, tape, blankets, and covers.
- 30 to 21 days
- Give notice to your landlord and schedule the exit inspection.
- Collect school and vaccination records if moving with children.
- Start address changes for banks, payroll, subscriptions, and deliveries.
- Plan disassembly for beds and wardrobes. Bag screws and label clearly.
- 21 to 14 days
- Confirm your final inventory so crew size and van volume are spot on.
- Photograph high-value items and record serial numbers for electronics.
- Arrange enhanced insurance if needed for art, instruments, or designer pieces.
- Choose White Glove Delivery for prestige items and complex stair turns.
- 7 days
- Pack a 72-hour essentials box. Kettle, mugs, snacks, chargers, bedding, toiletries, medicine, documents.
- Label on two sides with room and contents. Add fragile where required.
- Defrost and clean fridge and freezer. Drain washer hoses and secure cables.
- Confirm parking, access codes, and contact numbers for both addresses.
- Move day
- Protect floors and door frames before the first carry.
- Walk the crew through fragile items and load order. Keep IDs and keys on you.
- Track the van via GPS and stay reachable for accurate arrival timing.
- First week
- Register at your commune, set up utilities and internet, and note meter readings.
- Test smoke alarms and take photos of appliance connections.
- Learn your bike route to work or campus and locate nearby shops and pharmacies.
Need an urgent slot? Ask for Last Minute Moving.
Required Documents and Registrations
Get paperwork right and the rest flows. Keep originals in a slim folder and scanned copies in the cloud.
Before travel
- Passport or EU ID; health insurance proof. Federal portal: health.belgium.be.
- Non-EU long stays often require visa D or a single permit for work plus residence. Immigration Office: dofi.ibz.be.
- Proof of accommodation in Ghent and purpose of stay such as a work contract or enrolment.
- Civil status documents where relevant. Legalisation or apostille rules: belgium.be.
On arrival in Ghent
- Register your address at your commune shortly after taking up residence. Federal overview: belgium.be. City portal: stad.gent.
- Expect address verification and then issuance of a national register number and, if applicable, a residence card.
- Driving and vehicles. Licence exchange and vehicle registration via mobilit.fgov.be.
- Taxes. Personal taxation and e-services via finances.belgium.be.
EU, EEA, Swiss citizens: Usually no visa. Bring ID, proof of address, and proof of work or study for registration.
Non EU citizens: Enter with the correct visa D and register locally to collect your residence card when invited.
Tip: name files like lastname_firstname_doc_YYYYMMDD.pdf and carry two printed copies for appointments.
Where To Live in Ghent
Pick a neighbourhood that fits your rhythm.
- Historic Centre: postcard streets, compact living, café culture.
- Sint-Pieters: close to the station and campuses, popular with students and researchers.
- Ledeberg: urban-village feel, improving amenities, good value.
- Gentbrugge: green pockets and family houses, quick motorway access.
- Wondelgem: residential calm with tram links.
- Muide-Meulestede: waterfront vibe and evolving creative spaces.
- Rabot-Blaisantvest: lively, diverse, central convenience.
- Zwijnaarde: business parks, newer builds, easy ring-road access.
Neighborhood snapshot
| Area | Vibe | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Centre | Heritage, lively | Urbanites | Parking is limited, lift sizes vary |
| Sint-Pieters | Academic, connected | Students, researchers | Station and tram convenience |
| Ledeberg | Value, up-and-coming | Starters, couples | Markets, mixed housing |
| Gentbrugge | Green, family | Families | Parks, fast access to E17 or E40 |
| Wondelgem | Quiet, practical | Commuters | Tram into centre |
| Muide-Meulestede | Waterfront, creative | Designers, makers | Evolving warehouses |
| Rabot-Blaisantvest | Lively, diverse | Foodies, students | Central, busy arteries |
| Zwijnaarde | Modern, business | Professionals | Near tech parks |
Average rent snapshot
| Area | 1-bed flat | 3-bed home | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Centre | 950–1,300 EUR | 1,800–2,500 EUR | Pay for charm and location |
| Sint-Pieters | 900–1,250 EUR | 1,700–2,400 EUR | Station premium |
| Ledeberg | 800–1,050 EUR | 1,500–2,100 EUR | Good value |
| Gentbrugge | 850–1,150 EUR | 1,600–2,200 EUR | Family houses |
| Wondelgem | 800–1,050 EUR | 1,500–2,000 EUR | Quieter streets |
Viewing checklist
- Lift size and stair turns for sofas and wardrobes.
- Heating type and insulation for winter bills.
- Street width and loading zone for the truck. See parking info on stad.gent.
- Visit at two times. Daytime for noise and traffic. Evening for parking.
Costs To Expect
A move to Ghent is easiest when your budget is honest and complete. Use the tables below to map living costs, moving extras, and the cash you should keep ready for month one.
Core living costs
| Cost Item | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| One-bed flat rent | 800–1,300 EUR per month |
| Three-bed family home | 1,500–2,500 EUR per month |
| Utilities for 2-bed | 120–210 EUR per month |
| Internet | 35–60 EUR per month |
Moving and setup extras
| Item | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Move within EU to Ghent, 10–30 m³ | Route and access based quote | Price depends on distance, floor level, and service level |
| Packing materials bundle | 60–180 EUR | Boxes, tape, wrap, wardrobe boxes as needed |
| Professional packing service | Quote based | Faster, safer for glassware and art |
| External furniture lift (if required) | Quote via provider | Common for narrow stairs; check stad.gent for curb use |
| Temporary curb reservation or no‑parking signs | Fee varies by commune | Apply via stad.gent |
| Short‑term storage | Quote based | Useful for staggered handovers |
| End‑of‑tenancy cleaning | 80–250 EUR | Size dependent |
| Tenant insurance | 8–15 EUR per month | Often required by landlords |
First‑month example budget
| Item | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Rent 1-bed | 800–1,300 EUR |
| Deposit and admin | 1–2 months of rent |
| Utilities setup plus first month | 120–210 EUR |
| Internet setup plus first month | 35–60 EUR |
| Transport pass | 40–70 EUR per adult |
| Groceries and basics | 180–320 EUR |
| Packing materials | 60–180 EUR |
| Moving service to Ghent | Quote by volume, route, access |
Cost drivers to watch
- Distance and route influence fuel, ferries, and tolls.
- Access at both addresses. No lift, narrow stairs, long carry, or low passages add crew time.
- Season and day. Month ends and summer weekends are peak. Midweek slots are friendlier to budgets.
- Service level. DIY packing is cheaper. Pro packing and White Glove reduce risk for premium items.
- Insurance and special handling for pianos, art, or custom crates.
Save more, stress less
- Share a precise inventory so the van size fits first time.
- Book building lifts and any street reservations early.
- Group small pick‑ups into one load where possible.
- Move Tuesday to Thursday if your dates are flexible.
Want exact numbers by route and inventory? → Removals to Belgium
What You Can Bring
Moving within the EU is straightforward. From outside the EU there are extra steps. Use this section to avoid delays and protect your belongings.
Quick rules of thumb
- Within the EU: personal goods move freely in most cases. Keep a simple inventory and invoices for high‑value items.
- From outside the EU: transfer‑of‑residence relief may apply when changing your main residence to Belgium. Start with the Federal Finance portal: finances.belgium.be.
Documents for non‑EU customs relief
- Passport or EU ID and, if applicable, visa or residence documents.
- Proof you lived outside the EU before moving (lease, utility bills, deregistration).
- Proof of your new Belgian address or lease in Ghent.
- A dated inventory with box numbers and approximate values.
Pets, vehicles, and special items
- Pets: ISO microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport or official health certificate for non‑EU entries. Guidance: food.ec.europa.eu/animals/movement-pets and health.belgium.be.
- Vehicles: registration and licence exchange via the Federal Public Service Mobility: mobilit.fgov.be. Keep purchase documents and a certificate of conformity if importing a car.
- Electronics: pack laptops and devices with care. Keep chargers together and note serial numbers.
Items movers cannot carry
- Hazardous materials, gas canisters, explosives, weapons, and illegal substances.
- Perishables or open food containers. Some foods and plants can be restricted, especially from outside the EU. Check current customs rules at finances.belgium.be.
- Large cash holdings and irreplaceable documents. Carry these yourself.
Pack like a pro for border checks
- Label boxes on two sides with room and item type.
- Keep a digital copy of your inventory and scan key receipts.
- Place documents in a slim folder you keep on you during travel.
Unsure about a specific item? Add it to your inventory and ask during your quote call. For delicate art and instruments, choose White Glove Delivery.
Packing Like a Pro
Packing is where moves win or wobble. A clear, repeatable system saves hours, protects fragile pieces, and makes day one in Ghent feel calm instead of chaotic. Use the playbooks below and you will open the right box in seconds.
Your packing game plan
- Two week glide
- Days 1–3 off season clothes, books, décor.
- Days 4–6 spare linens, guest room, hobby gear.
- Days 7–9 kitchen back stock and rarely used appliances.
- Days 10–12 bedrooms you use less, hallway cupboards.
- Days 13–14 daily use zones stay open until the sprint below.
- Five day sprint
- Storage corners and decorations.
- Bedrooms and wardrobes. Vacuum bag linens, label clearly.
- Kitchen. Plates wrapped vertically, knives sheathed, cords coiled.
- Living room and electronics. Photos of cable layouts help.
- Last touches. Bathroom bag, cleaning kit, final walk through.
Label like a pro
- Write room + item type + number on two sides. Example: Kitchen | Glassware | Box 4 of 7.
- Add a short contents line for fast triage. Keep a master list on your phone.
- Use colour dots per room. Red Kitchen, Blue Bedroom, Green Living. Add fragile sticker where needed.
72 hour essentials box
- Kettle, mugs, instant coffee or tea, snacks, paper towels.
- Bed linen, towels, basic toiletries, medicine.
- Phone chargers, power strip, light bulbs, small tool kit.
- Copies of IDs, lease, permits, insurance papers.
Fragile protocol
- Plates on edge, each wrapped. Fill voids so nothing rattles.
- Glasses nested with paper sleeves. Mark arrows up on the box.
- TVs upright only. Use original carton when possible. Otherwise thick edge protectors.
- Mirrors and framed art with X tape over glass, corner guards, and rigid cardboard sandwiches.
- Instruments loosened strings and padded cases. Choose custom crating for high value art.
Electronics and appliances
- Photograph cable layouts before unplugging. Bag cables by device.
- Defrost and dry fridges 24 hours before loading.
- Tape doors and secure drums on washing machines per the manual.
Sustainable options and reuse
- Source sturdy second life boxes and return them after the move.
- Prefer paper and cardboard over plastics where possible.
- Donate or sell containers and bubble wrap once you are unpacked.
Packing materials cheat sheet
| Material | Best for | Pro tip |
|---|---|---|
| Double wall boxes | Books, kitchenware | Keep each box under 20 kg to protect seams and backs |
| Wardrobe boxes | Suits, dresses | Hang, then pad the base with soft items |
| Bubble wrap and paper | Glass, ceramics | Wrap individually and fill all empty space |
| Stretch wrap | Sofas, drawers | Wrap over blankets to keep fabric clean |
| Corner protectors | Mirrors, frames | Combine with X tape for rigidity |
| Mattress covers | Mattresses | Seal both ends against dust and moisture |
| Moving blankets | Large furniture | Strap in place to prevent scuffs |
| Strong tape and dispenser | All boxes | One long strip across seam plus two short side strips |
| Zip bags and labels | Screws, bolts, remotes | Tape to the matching furniture piece |
Prefer hands free? Choose Packing Services. For art, antiques, and designer pieces, select White Glove Delivery.
VANonsite Services That Remove Stress
Choose the level of help that fits your timeline, inventory, and access. Every route includes live GPS so you always know where your belongings are and when to meet the crew.
Core services
- Last Minute Moving for urgent timelines with rapid scheduling and clear ETAs.
- Furniture Removals for single items or full rooms with careful placement at delivery.
- Home Removals tailored to studios and multi room homes with sizing advice baked in.
- Office Removals with evening options that protect productivity.
- Student Removals built for dorms, micro moves, and exam week timing.
- Storage for gap weeks between keys or renovations.
- GPS tracking on every load for real time visibility.
Vehicle sizes
| VANonsite Vehicle | Volume | Max Load | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | Student rooms, essentials |
| Moving Medium | 10 m³ | 600 kg | 1 bed apartments |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1,000 kg | 2 bed flats with heavier items |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3,500 kg | Small homes and offices |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20,000 kg | Large households or multi pickup |
How it works
- Plan your date and share a quick inventory or video walkthrough.
- Protect with the right packing level. Flag fragile and high value items.
- Move and track. Follow the van live and meet the crew at delivery.
- Settle in with room by room placement and optional assembly.
What you get with every move
- Punctual arrival window and proactive updates.
- Trained crews using blankets, floor protection, straps, and dollies.
- Inventory double check before departure and at delivery.
- Insurance guidance for peace of mind.
How to choose your van fast
- Student room or studio with up to 25 boxes and a small sofa → Moving Medium 10 m³.
- One bed flat with appliances and a 3 seat sofa → Moving Premium 15 m³.
- Small house or two bed flat with wardrobes and bikes → Moving Premium Plus 30 m³.
- Large households, multi pickup, or a big furniture set → Full House XXL 90 m³.
Popular bundles
- City to City Saver: Home Removals plus Packing Services for one day door to door.
- Art and Design Care: White Glove Delivery for galleries, collectors, and premium furniture.
- Office Overnight: Office Removals with evening loading and morning setup.
Check routes, dates, and prices now → Removals to Belgium
Move-Day Playbook (Ghent)
Make move morning calm and decisive. Use this hour by hour plan plus the mini permit guide so the crew can start fast and finish on time.
The day before
- Place any approved no parking signs within the timeframe given by the City. Take time stamped photos once installed.
- Clear stairwells and corridors. Protect lift walls with blankets or pads.
- Pack a last bag with IDs, keys, permits, chargers, medicines, snacks, water.
- Photograph meter readings and the condition of communal areas.
Hour by hour on move day
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Quick sweep of rooms, unplug appliances, roll up rugs |
| 07:30 | Lay floor protection, protect door frames, keep pets safe in one room |
| 08:00 | Crew arrival, briefing on fragile items and load order |
| 09:00 | First large items out, boxes by room, external lift set up if approved |
| 11:30 | Final walkthrough, check cupboards, take photos of empty rooms |
| 12:00 | Depart and track the van live with GPS |
| 13:00 | Meet crew at new address, confirm parking bay and lift access |
| 13:15 | Floor protection down, rooms labelled at the door, start placement by room |
| 15:30 | Reassemble beds and key furniture, plug in fridge and washer |
| 16:30 | Inventory cross check, remove packaging, quick clean |
| 17:00 | Sign off, return borrowed signs if required by the City approval |
How to reserve curb space in Ghent
- Go to the City portal stad.gent and search for temporary use of public space for moving or temporary no parking.
- Submit the online request with the exact address, dates and times, vehicle size, and whether you need an external lift on the public domain.
- Pay any applicable fees and follow the City instructions for official signage or cones. Keep the approval email and reference number printed for move day.
- Install any official signs within the time window stated by your approval. Photograph placement as proof.
External furniture lift quick guide
- Confirm façade clearance, pavement width, and a clear safety zone at the base.
- Check power and weather. Wind and rain may limit lift use for safety.
- Only trained operators should run the lift. Keep children and pets away from the zone.
Safety and building etiquette
- Protect communal floors and walls. Use corner guards in tight turns.
- Respect quiet hours and loading windows set by your building.
- Keep exits clear at all times for fire safety.
Essentials checklist
- IDs, permits or authorisations, insurance details
- Keys, access fobs, door codes
- Phone chargers and a power bank
- Basic tools, scissors, tape, box knife
- Kettle, mugs, snacks, water
- Bedding, towels, toiletries, kids and pets comfort items
Settling In
- Register at the commune and book any home visit. belgium.be, stad.gent.
- Healthcare: join a mutualiteit or ziekenfonds. health.belgium.be.
- Transport: De Lijn buses and trams plus SNCB trains. Buy a pass and a good bike lock.
- Waste and recycling: check local calendar and rules via stad.gent.
- Banking and admin: open a local account. Save your commune confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a parking permit for the moving van in Ghent?
Often yes if you want to reserve curb space. Apply for temporary use of public space via the City portal: stad.gent. Follow the timing for official no parking signs and keep the approval printed for move day.
Can you move at night or on weekends?
Yes. Evening and weekend slots are available. Check your building rules and quiet hours first.
How far in advance should I book?
Four to six weeks secures the best dates and prices. Tight timeline? Choose Last Minute Moving.
What van size do I need?
Share a quick inventory and we will match it. Studios often fit 10 m³, one bed flats 15 m³, small homes 30 m³, large households 90 m³.
Can you handle pianos, artwork, or designer furniture?
Yes. Ask for White Glove Delivery for soft handling, custom protection, and careful placement.
Are my goods insured during the move?
Basic cover applies on every route. For high value items we can arrange enhanced protection. Photograph valuables and list serial numbers.
Do you provide packing materials and packing help?
Yes. Go hands free with Packing Services or order materials only. We label rooms and create an unpack first box.
Do you do student moves and micro moves?
Absolutely. Single items and dorm rooms are best via Furniture Removals and Student Removals.
What documents should I have on move day?
IDs, lease, keys, insurance details, and any City permit. If you are non EU, carry visa or residence paperwork. Registration overview: belgium.be. Immigration info: dofi.ibz.be.
I am moving from outside the EU. Do I pay customs on household goods?
You may qualify for transfer of residence relief when changing your main residence to Belgium. Check conditions with the Federal Finance portal: finances.belgium.be.
Quick Van Size Estimator
Choose fast with real world examples. When in doubt, share your inventory for a precise match.
| Van | Volume | Max load | Typical inventory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | 10 to 15 boxes, chair, small desk, bedside unit |
| Moving Medium | 10 m³ | 600 kg | Studio or student room, 20 to 30 boxes, small sofa, bike |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1,000 kg | One bed flat, 30 to 45 boxes, 3 seat sofa, bed, appliances |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3,500 kg | Two bed flat or small house, 50 to 80 boxes, wardrobes, bikes |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20,000 kg | Large household, multi pickup, bulky furniture sets |
Need a tailored match? Get advice with your quote → Removals to Belgium
Summary
Moving to Ghent should feel energising, not exhausting. Choose a move that is fast, safe, and crystal clear from first box to final placement. With VANonsite you get right sized vans, expert crews, and live GPS on every load. You always know where your belongings are and when they arrive. Add professional packing or White Glove care for art and designer furniture. Settle in with firm timelines, careful placement by room, and transparent pricing.
Why VANonsite
- Real time GPS tracking on every shipment
- Trained teams and protective materials that shield floors, walls, and furniture
- Van sizes from 5 m³ to 90 m³ for a perfect fit and fair price
Ready for a friction free move to Ghent? Get your fast quote → Removals to Belgium
