Moving to Antwerp is a bold, exciting leap. Think diamond-district sparkle, port-city energy, and café terraces that make weekdays feel like weekends. You want a move that feels just as polished: swift booking, careful handling, and full transparency from first box to final placement.
VANonsite delivers exactly that with trained crews, right-sized vehicles, and live GPS on every load so you always know where your belongings are. This outline is your conversion-focused, human-centred structure for a full guide that is fast to read, rich in specifics, and optimised for search.
Get a GPS-tracked, tailored quote → Removals to Belgium
TL;DR
- Book 4–6 weeks ahead for best dates. In a rush, choose Last Minute Moving.
- Track every shipment live with GPS and proactive ETAs so timing stays crystal clear.
- Check Antwerp LEZ rules if you drive your own vehicle into the city. Official info: antwerpen.be.
- Right-size your van fast: 5 m³ 300 kg, 10 m³ 600 kg, 15 m³ 1000 kg, 30 m³ 3500 kg, 90 m³ 20000 kg. Studios usually fit 10 m³, one-bed flats 15 m³, small homes 30 m³.
- Go hands-free with Packing Services. Choose White Glove Delivery for pianos, artwork, and designer furniture.
- Reserve curb space and, if needed, an external lift. See parking and street occupation guidance on antwerpen.be.
- Register promptly at your commune after arrival. Federal overview: belgium.be; City portal: antwerpen.be.
- Save money with midweek moves, precise inventories, easy access, and the right van size from the start.
- Students and offices covered too with Student Removals and Office Removals.
- Lock your route, date, and price now → Removals to Belgium.
Why Antwerp (Benefits and Fit)
Antwerp has grit and grace in the same breath. The Scheldt river powers a world class port while boutiques and ateliers set global trends a few streets away. Cycle past Art Nouveau townhouses in the morning, take a tram to a waterside lunch, and be at a gallery opening by sunset. The city is compact, creative, and wonderfully connected.
What sets Antwerp apart
- Career magnet in fashion, logistics, diamonds, and creative tech that keeps opportunities close.
- Compact and connected so errands are quick and commutes stay short.
- Lifestyle richness from monumental architecture to riverside promenades and a joyous food scene.
- Family friendly pockets with parks, playgrounds, and schools clustered together.
- International mindset where newcomers feel welcome yet neighbourhoods retain warmth.
Who thrives here
- Designers, shippers, and e commerce teams who want pace without chaos.
- Families seeking space and short journeys between school, work, and sport.
- Students and first job movers chasing culture, internships, and convenience.
Connectivity snapshot
| From Antwerp to | Typical Time | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 35 to 45 min | Train |
| Ghent | 50 to 65 min | Train |
| Amsterdam | 70 to 110 min | Train |
| Brussels Airport (BRU) | 35 to 50 min | Train |
| Antwerp Airport (ANR) | 15 to 25 min | Car or bus |
Your 7 Step Moving Timeline
Turn move week from chaos into calm with this repeatable plan. Each step is short, practical, and built for real apartments and townhouses in Antwerp.
- 60 to 45 days
- Fix a budget ceiling and a two day date window.
- Shortlist movers, compare like for like quotes, read recent reviews.
- Measure sofas, wardrobes, and stair turns. Note lift size or tight corridors.
- Capture access notes for both addresses including floor number and loading distance.
- 45 to 30 days
- Book your date and match the right van size to your inventory.
- Ask building management about lift pads, wall protection, and time windows.
- Decide on Packing Services or order sturdy boxes, tape, blankets, and covers.
- If your street is narrow, check temporary curb space rules on antwerpen.be.
- 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 premium furniture.
- Choose White Glove Delivery for designer pieces or 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 precise 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 a rapid 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 and health insurance proof. Federal portal: health.belgium.be.
- Non EU long stays often require visa D or a single permit for work and residence. Immigration Office: dofi.ibz.be.
- Proof of accommodation in Antwerp and purpose of stay such as work contract or enrolment. Overview: belgium.be.
On arrival in Antwerp
- Register your address at your commune shortly after moving in. City portal: antwerpen.be. Federal overview: belgium.be.
- Expect an address verification followed by 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 work or study evidence for registration.
Non EU citizens: Enter with the correct visa D and register locally to collect your residence card when invited.
Tip: name files lastname_firstname_doc_YYYYMMDD.pdf and carry two printed copies for appointments.
LEZ and vehicle access
Antwerp has a Low Emission Zone covering much of the city. Before driving your own car or a rental into the centre, check compliance and any registration requirements on the official City portal: antwerpen.be. Fines for non compliant vehicles are significant, so verify plates in advance.
Where To Live in Antwerp (Neighbourhood Chooser)
Mix inspiration with practical notes.
- Antwerp Centre: heritage streets, compact apartments, café culture.
- Zuid (South): galleries, fashion, restaurants; lively yet refined.
- Het Eilandje: docks, MAS museum, waterfront vibe and newer builds.
- Zurenborg: Art Nouveau gems, village feel, terraces.
- Berchem: trains, family homes, great value.
- Merksem: practical, parks, larger properties.
- Wilrijk: green, suburban calm.
Neighborhood snapshot
| Area | Vibe | Best for | Quick notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centre | Historic, lively | Urbanites | Street parking tight; lifts vary |
| Zuid | Creative, upscale | Designers, foodies | Nightlife; book curb space early |
| Eilandje | Waterfront, modern | Pros, couples | Elevators common, great views |
| Zurenborg | Art Nouveau, cosy | Families, creatives | Townhouses; tram access |
| Berchem | Connected, value | Families, commuters | Train hub; easier parking |
| Merksem | Green, roomy | Value seekers | Parks, larger flats |
| Wilrijk | Suburban, calm | Families | Houses with gardens |
Costs To Expect (Honest Snapshot)
Use tables that set expectations and prime for a quote.
Core living costs
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| One bed flat rent | 900–1,400 EUR per month |
| Three bed home | 1,700–2,700 EUR per month |
| Utilities (2 bed) | 120–220 EUR per month |
| Internet | 35–60 EUR per month |
Moving and setup extras
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| EU to Antwerp move 10–30 m³ | Route based quote | Distance, floor level, access decide price |
| Packing materials | 60–180 EUR | Boxes, tape, wrap, wardrobes |
| Professional packing | Quote | Safer, faster for glassware and art |
| Temporary curb reservation | Varies by commune | Check antwerpen.be |
| Short term storage | Quote | Perfect for staggered keys |
First month example budget
| Item | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Rent (1 bed) | 900–1,400 EUR |
| Deposit and admin | 1–2 months of rent |
| Utilities setup plus month 1 | 120–220 EUR |
| Internet setup plus month 1 | 35–60 EUR |
| Transport pass | 40–70 EUR per adult |
| Groceries and basics | 180–320 EUR |
| Moving service | Quote by volume, route, access |
Cost drivers and savings
- Distance, route, floor level, lift access.
- Season and day: midweek beats month end weekends.
- Service level: DIY vs Packing Services or White Glove.
- Save with accurate inventory and early curb reservations.
What You Can Bring (EU vs Non EU)
Clear, compliance minded guidance with official links only. Rules can change. Always verify with the Belgian federal portals before you travel.
Within the EU
- Personal goods usually move freely for private, non commercial use.
- Keep a simple inventory by box number. Photograph valuable items and note serials.
- Keep invoices for high value goods like bikes, instruments, or designer furniture.
- Excise goods like alcohol and tobacco have limits when transported as a private individual. See federal guidance: finances.belgium.be.
From outside the EU (transfer of residence)
You may qualify for transfer of residence relief when you change your main residence to Belgium. Start here: finances.belgium.be.
Typical conditions
- You are moving your primary residence to Belgium.
- Household goods have been owned and used by you for at least six months before shipment.
- Import normally occurs within 12 months of establishing residence.
- Goods granted relief should not be sold, lent, or disposed of within 12 months after import.
What usually qualifies
- Personal effects, furniture, household linen, books, appliances, bicycles, children’s items, and pets.
May require extra steps or duties
- New goods bought shortly before the move or in commercial quantities.
- Vehicles and motorcycles. Relief can apply if ownership and use criteria are met. Registration and technical rules still apply via mobilit.fgov.be.
Documents to travel with your shipment
- ID or passport and any visa or residence documents.
- Lease or proof of address in Antwerp, plus proof of your previous non EU residence if relevant.
- Dated inventory with box numbers, approximate values, and photos or serials for electronics.
- Any customs approval letters for transfer of residence or vehicle import.
- Insurance certificate and bill of lading if shipping by sea.
Pets
- ISO microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport or official certificate for non EU entries. Guidance: food.ec.europa.eu/animals/movement-pets and health.belgium.be.
Vehicles
- Licence exchange, import, and registration via the Federal Public Service Mobility: mobilit.fgov.be.
- If you drive a foreign plated vehicle into Antwerp, check LEZ rules and possible plate registration on antwerpen.be.
Special items and restrictions
- Plants, seeds, and food of animal origin may face restrictions. Check the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain: favv-afsca.fgov.be.
- Medicines for personal use should travel in original packaging with prescription. Guidance via the Federal Health portal: health.belgium.be.
- Cultural goods and antiques can have export or import rules. Start at the federal culture pages on belgium.be.
- Carrying cash of 10,000 EUR or more can require declaration. Check customs guidance on finances.belgium.be.
Items movers cannot carry
- Hazardous materials, gas canisters, explosives, weapons, and illegal substances.
- Perishables and open liquids. Some foods and plants are restricted, especially from outside the EU. Verify rules on finances.belgium.be and favv-afsca.fgov.be.
- Irreplaceable documents and large cash holdings should travel with you.
Packing Like a Pro (Actionable System)
Packing is where moves win or wobble. A clear, repeatable system saves hours, protects fragile pieces, and makes day one in Antwerp feel calm instead of chaotic.
Two week glide
- Days 1 to 3 off season clothes, books, décor.
- Days 4 to 6 spare linens, guest room, hobby gear.
- Days 7 to 9 kitchen back stock and rarely used appliances.
- Days 10 to 12 bedrooms you use less, hallway cupboards.
- Days 13 to 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 method
- 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.
Unpack first kit for 72 hours
- 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. For local rules on recycling, check antwerpen.be.
Box count estimator
| Home size | Typical boxes | DIY packing time |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 20 to 35 | 6 to 8 hours |
| 1 bed flat | 30 to 45 | 8 to 12 hours |
| 2 bed flat | 45 to 70 | 12 to 18 hours |
| Small house | 70 to 100 | 18 to 24 hours |
Packing materials cheat sheet
| Material | Best for | Pro tip |
|---|---|---|
| Double wall boxes | Books, kitchenware | Keep each box under 20 kg to protect seams |
| Wardrobe boxes | Suits, dresses | Hang and 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
Clear value, internal links, and a sizing table.
Core services
- Last Minute Moving
- Furniture Removals
- Home Removals
- Office Removals
- Student Removals
- Storage
- GPS tracking on every load
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 pick a date and share inventory or video walkthrough.
- Protect choose packing level. Flag fragile and high value items.
- Move and track follow the van live and meet the crew at delivery.
- Settle placement by room and optional assembly.
Move Day Playbook (Antwerp)
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 Antwerp
- Go to the City portal antwerpen.be 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 facade 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 (First 2 Weeks)
Start strong and admin will not snowball. Use this checklist to get your life humming in Antwerp.
1. Register at the commune
Book your appointment and bring your passport or EU ID, lease or deed, and proof of health cover. City info: antwerpen.be, federal overview: belgium.be. Expect an address check before your national register number and residence card are confirmed.
2. Healthcare
Choose and join a mutualiteit/ziekenfonds to reimburse medical costs and register with a local GP. Health policy and patient rights: health.belgium.be.
3. Transport
Pick up a De Lijn pass for buses and trams and set up an SNCB account for trains. Consider a MoBIB card and secure bike parking. De Lijn: delijn.be, national trains: belgiantrain.be.
4. Utilities and internet
Note meter readings on move in day and contact providers for electricity, gas, water, and broadband. Keep confirmation emails and installation dates handy.
5. Waste and recycling
Check your collection calendar, sorting rules, and civic amenity sites on the City portal: antwerpen.be. Store bags and bins where crews can reach them.
6. Banking and admin
Open a local account with your ID and proof of address. Activate digital tools for government services once you receive your national register number.
7. Schools and childcare
If moving with children, review enrolment guidance and waiting lists via the City site. Bring vaccination records and previous school certificates.
8. Safety and home basics
Test smoke alarms, find the water stopcock and fuse box, and photograph appliance connections. Map your nearest pharmacy and late opening grocery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a parking permit for a moving van in Antwerp?
Often yes if you want to reserve curb space. Apply for temporary use of public space via the City portal antwerpen.be. Follow the timing for official no parking signs and keep the approval printed for move day.
Can you move in the evening or on weekends?
Yes. Evening and weekend slots are available. Check your building rules and quiet hours first. If streets are busier during the day, an evening slot can be a time saver.
How far in advance should I book to get a good price?
Four to six weeks secures the best dates and rates. Month ends and summer Saturdays book fast. 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. Right sizing avoids extra trips and cost.
Can you handle pianos, artwork, or designer furniture?
Yes. Ask for White Glove Delivery for soft handling, custom protection, stair navigation, 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, list serial numbers, and flag them during booking.
Do you provide packing materials and hands free packing?
Yes. Go hands free with Packing Services or order materials only. We also create an unpack first box for day one comfort.
Do you do student moves and micro moves?
Absolutely. Single items and dorm rooms are best via Furniture Removals and Student Removals with flexible slots around exams.
What documents should I carry 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 if you are changing your main residence to Belgium. Read conditions and required proofs on the Federal Finance portal finances.belgium.be.
Summary
Moving to Antwerp gets simple when you follow a clear path. Plan 4 to 6 weeks ahead, match the right van size, and line up permits and LEZ checks. Keep your documents ready, choose a neighbourhood that fits your rhythm, and set a realistic budget. Pack with a proven system, protect the building on the day, brief the crew, and track your shipment live with GPS. In your first week, register at the commune, switch on utilities, and ease into new routines.
With VANonsite you get precision from quote to placement. Trained crews that care. Live GPS on every load. Packing Services for speed. White Glove care for art and designer pieces. Five vehicle sizes from 5 m³ to 90 m³ so you pay for what you need, not empty space. Transparent pricing and timelines keep you in control from door to door.
Ready for a friction free move to Antwerp? Get your fast quote → Removals to Belgium
