Introduction
Moving to France is exciting, but international moving can feel like juggling glass. One missing document, one wrong measurement, one parking restriction, and your easy move turns into a costly delay.
This guide is built to make international removals to France feel simple. You will get a clear plan, realistic timelines, and practical choices for transport, packing, and customs. If you want a premium move with speed and confidence, VANonsite delivers international removals to France with GPS tracking for every load, plus packing and White Glove options when you need extra care.
Quick answer
If you want the fastest route to a smooth move, do these three things first:
- Measure your load and list what you are taking
- Confirm access rules at both addresses, including parking and lift limits
- Choose the right service: dedicated, part load, or man and van
Then follow the 10 step plan below.
International removals to France in 10 steps
- Pick your move date and your flexibility window If you can be flexible by 3 to 7 days, part load options often become more affordable.
- Choose the transport model
- Dedicated: best for strict delivery dates and high value items
- Part load: best for smaller moves and flexible timing
- Man and van: best for compact shipments and city access
- Create a simple inventory List boxes and items, add high value pieces separately, and take photos. This step can cut quote back and forth by up to 50%.
- Measure volume and weight Measure in m3 and estimate weight. As a quick rule, 1 m3 of mixed household goods often lands around 80 to 150 kg, depending on density.
- Plan access at both locations Confirm:
- Door widths and tight corners
- Lift size and lift weight limits
- Stairs, thresholds, and long carry distances
- Parking and loading rules
- Choose protection level
- Standard wrapping and boxed packing for everyday items
- Stronger packing for fragile goods
- White Glove handling for delicate interiors, art, designer furniture, and premium finishes
- Prepare documents and customs EU moves are simpler, but you still want a clear inventory and ID details. UK and non EU moves require stronger customs planning.
- Book the delivery plan and site contacts One decision maker at pickup and one at delivery. A clear contact reduces delays when questions appear on the day.
- Load and secure professionally Heavy items low, balanced left to right. Straps with padding. No loose items that can travel inside furniture or appliances.
- Deliver, inspect, and sign off Take condition photos, verify the inventory, confirm placement, and keep a signed copy of the delivery notes.
What counts as international removals to France
International removals are any move where your goods cross a border and the rules change. Even inside the EU, access rules, building policies, and timing can make a simple move feel complex.
In practice, international removals to France can mean:
- Moving your entire home to France
- Shipping a smaller part load to meet you later
- Sending furniture only to a new address
- Relocating an office or a small business setup
- Handling a last minute collection that cannot wait
Typical move scenarios
Each scenario has a slightly different priority. Pick the one that sounds like you.
- Private home move Best when you want one clean delivery and a predictable plan. Dedicated transport is often the calmest option for full household moves.
- Apartment move Apartments often mean lifts, stairs, and parking limits. Good photos and measurements can reduce delays by 20% to 40% on the day.
- Student move Usually smaller and time sensitive. Part load and man and van options can be ideal when you want value and speed.
- Office move Timing matters. You want minimal downtime and clear placement at delivery. Office removals are smoother when you label everything and keep tech accessories together.
- Furniture only Perfect when you are already in France but your key pieces are still abroad. White Glove delivery can protect delicate finishes.
- Part load shipment A strong fit if you can offer a delivery window. You pay for the space you use, while still keeping protection high.
- Urgent last minute move When dates shift or contracts change, speed becomes the priority. A last minute plan still needs an inventory, access details, and a clear contact at both ends.
Why choose VANonsite for international removals to France
The best move is the one you can trust. VANonsite runs international removals to France with premium handling, realistic timelines, and GPS tracking for every load.
What makes the difference:
- GPS tracking on every load so you can plan arrival, parking, and access
- Premium handling that reduces dents, pressure marks, and avoidable damage
- Fast routing with clear communication, before, during, and after transit
- Flexible options: dedicated, part load, and man and van
When to choose each option
| Option | Best for | Typical advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated | Fixed dates, full moves, high value items | Predictable timing, fewer handoffs |
| Part load | Smaller moves, flexible window | Strong value, pay for space |
| Man and van | Compact shipments, city access | Practical parking, faster handling |
Services that can be added
Build the support level that fits your move.
- Furniture Removals: https://vanonsite.com/furniture-removals/
- Home Removals: https://vanonsite.com/home-removals/
- Packing Service: https://vanonsite.com/packing-services/
- White Glove Delivery: https://vanonsite.com/white-glove-delivery-service/
- Office removals: https://vanonsite.com/office-removals/
- Student Removals: https://vanonsite.com/student-removals/
- Storage
Internal link
If you want the full overview of routes, options, and booking support, use the France hub:
- Removals to France hub: https://vanonsite.com/removals-to-france/
Choose the right transport model
The right transport model makes international removals to France feel easy. The wrong one can feel cheap at first, then expensive in delays, stress, and extra handling.
Think about three things:
- How strict your delivery date is
- How fragile or valuable your items are
- How flexible you can be with a delivery window
Dedicated international removals to France
Dedicated international removals to France mean the vehicle is focused on your move. Less handling. Fewer handoffs. More control.
Best for:
- Full home moves
- Fixed key dates and appointment only deliveries
- High value items, art, designer furniture
- Families who want a predictable plan
What you gain:
- Faster scheduling and cleaner arrival planning
- Lower risk of pressure marks from shared loading
- Easier coordination for parking permits and building rules
If your move date is must happen, dedicated is usually the calmest choice for international removals to France.
Part load international removals to France
Part load international removals to France are ideal when you do not need a single fixed minute. You share vehicle space and pay for the space you use.
Best for:
- Smaller moves and apartment moves
- Student moves and staged relocations
- Furniture only shipments
- People who can offer a 3 to 7 day delivery window
How to keep part load safe:
- Palletise or box items properly
- Label every box with room and item type
- Separate fragile goods and mark them clearly
- Avoid loose items that can shift in transit
Part load is often the smartest way to reduce international removals to France cost without cutting safety.
Man and van international removals to France
A man and van service is a strong fit for compact shipments. It is simple, fast, and practical in cities.
Best for:
- 1 to 5 m3 moves
- Boxes, luggage, compact furniture
- Quick collections and deliveries
- Addresses where parking is tight
A good man and van move still needs an inventory and good packing. When the load is light and organised, international removals to France can feel surprisingly smooth.
Decision table
Use this table to decide in 30 seconds.
| Your priority | Best option | Why it fits |
| Fixed delivery day | Dedicated | Predictable timing and lower handling |
| Lowest overall price | Part load | Pay for space used with flexible window |
| Small move, city access | Man and van | Easier parking and faster handling |
| Fragile, high value items | Dedicated plus White Glove | Safer placement and reduced risk |
Routes and delivery regions in France
France is big, and delivery difficulty changes fast by region and city. With international removals to France, the route is not just distance. It is parking access, building rules, and the reality of narrow streets.
Popular destinations
These are some of the most common regions for international removals to France, and what to expect.
- Paris and Île de France: tight access, strong parking rules, plan time slots early
- Lyon and Auvergne Rhône Alpes: mixed access, older buildings, measure corridors and lifts
- Marseille and Provence: busy streets, heat in summer, protect fragile items from temperature swings
- Nice and Côte d’Azur: narrow streets and parking pressure, White Glove helps for premium interiors
- Bordeaux and Nouvelle Aquitaine: easier access outside the centre, strong demand in peak months
- Toulouse and Occitanie: good for dedicated routes, confirm delivery access in new developments
- Lille and Hauts de France: popular for cross border moves, quick regional access
- Strasbourg and Grand Est: smooth routes for central Europe, confirm building rules for apartments
Typical transit timelines by service
Timelines depend on distance, border checks, and how strict your delivery slot is. These are planning ranges for international removals to France, not promises.
| Service | Typical planning range | Best for |
| Dedicated | 2 to 6 days | Fixed dates and full moves |
| Part load | 4 to 12 days | Flexible windows and smaller loads |
| Man and van | 2 to 8 days | Compact shipments and city access |
Practical tip: if your building requires a booked lift or a set unloading time, add a buffer of 1 day.
International removals to France cost
The cost of international removals to France is shaped by three things: how much you move, how hard it is to load and unload, and how strict your timing is. Distance matters, but access and handling often decide the final number.
A simple truth: when details are missing, quotes include a risk buffer. When details are clear, prices become sharper.
Main cost drivers
These are the factors that move the price most.
- Volume and weight: measured in m3 and kg
- Access difficulty: stairs, tight corridors, no lift, long carry distance
- Parking rules: permits, loading bays, time restrictions
- Service type: dedicated, part load, or man and van
- Packing level: standard, full packing, White Glove handling for delicate items
- Timing: peak dates can add 15% to 35%
If your parking is 30 metres away instead of 5 metres, handling time can rise by 20% to 40%.
Cost ranges by volume
These ranges help you plan international removals to France. Exact pricing depends on distance, access, and dates.
| Volume | Typical move type | Typical planning range |
| 1 m3 | A few boxes, luggage | €150 to €500 |
| 5 m3 | Student move, small studio | €450 to €1,200 |
| 10 m3 | Small apartment, furniture plus boxes | €900 to €2,400 |
| 15 m3 | Large apartment, bulky items | €1,300 to €3,400 |
| 30 m3 | Family move, multiple rooms | €2,200 to €6,500 |
If you want the most value, part load international removals to France often win when you can offer a flexible delivery window.
Example scenarios
These scenarios are realistic planning anchors for international removals to France.
| Scenario | What is moving | Best option | Planning range |
| Compact essentials | 10 to 20 boxes, no bulky items | Man and van | €350 to €950 |
| Furniture only | Sofa, bed, table, a few boxes | Part load | €650 to €1,900 |
| Studio to France | 5 to 8 m3, mixed items | Part load or dedicated | €900 to €2,300 |
| Two bedroom move | 12 to 18 m3, appliances included | Dedicated | €1,600 to €4,000 |
How to reduce cost without reducing safety
Saving money should not feel like gambling. These are the safest ways to reduce international removals to France cost.
- Be flexible by 3 to 7 days This is the biggest lever for part load pricing.
- Send a clear inventory with photos It reduces quote back and forth by up to 50%.
- Measure properly, especially bulky items A wardrobe that is 20 cm wider than expected can force a bigger vehicle.
- Make access easy on the day Reserve parking, book lifts, clear corridors.
- Pack smart if you self pack Use strong boxes. Keep most under 20 kg. Label by room and priority.
If you want premium protection for delicate interiors, consider White Glove delivery:
- White Glove Delivery: https://vanonsite.com/white-glove-delivery-service/
Vehicle sizes and what fits
Choosing the right vehicle is where international removals to France turn from stressful to smooth. You want enough space to load safely, not a tight puzzle that forces pressure on furniture.
Use a simple buffer: add 10% to 15% extra volume for protection and practical loading.
VANonsite vehicle packages
| Vehicle package | Volume | Max payload | Best for |
| Moving One | 1 m3 | 100 kg | Micro shipments |
| Moving Basic | 5 m3 | 300 kg | Small loads, boxes and small items |
| Moving Medium | 10 m3 | 500 kg | Small flat volumes |
| Moving Premium | 15 m3 | 1100 kg | Larger flat, bulky items |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m3 | 3500 kg | Family moves, multiple rooms |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m3 | 20000 kg | Full house and heavy volume |
Quick volume guide
This quick guide helps you estimate volume for international removals to France.
- 1 m3: 8 to 10 moving boxes, or luggage plus a small chair
- 5 m3: 25 to 35 boxes, or a small bed plus boxes
- 10 m3: studio sized contents, or furniture only with extra boxes
- 15 m3: one bedroom apartment with bulky items
- 30 m3: 2 to 3 bedroom family move, depending on storage and density
If you are unsure, take photos of each room and we will help you match the right vehicle for international removals to France.
Packing and protection
Packing is where most international moves either become effortless or messy. With international removals to France, the goal is not to wrap everything like a museum piece. The goal is to stop movement, prevent rubbing, and keep fragile items from taking even one unnecessary hit.
If you are self packing, think in layers: sturdy boxes, smart padding, and clear labels. If you want it done with maximum control, VANonsite can handle packing and provide White Glove care for delicate interiors.
Packing checklist
Use this checklist to make international removals to France faster and safer.
- Choose strong boxes and keep weight realistic Aim for most boxes under 20 kg.
- Use the right padding Soft items like towels can work, but fragile items need proper bubble wrap or paper.
- Separate fragile from heavy Do not pack glass with books.
- Seal liquids and remove anything loose Loose items inside furniture or appliances will bounce and scratch.
- Protect corners and edges Corners take the first impact.
- Pack an essentials bag Keep chargers, documents, keys, medications, and 48 hour basics with you.
Quick protection table
| Item type | Best packing approach | Extra safety move |
| Plates and glass | Wrap each piece, vertical in box | Double box for high value sets |
| TVs and monitors | Original box if possible | Corner guards plus stretch wrap |
| Mirrors and art | Rigid protection and padding | White Glove for premium pieces |
| Appliances | Secure doors and hoses | Keep upright labels visible |
| Furniture | Wrap edges and legs | Use blankets and strap padding |
Labeling system that speeds unloading
A good label saves hours. It also prevents the one mistake that ruins a first night in France: the wrong boxes in the wrong rooms.
For international removals to France, label every box on two sides with:
- Room name: Kitchen, Bedroom 1, Office
- Priority: 1, 2, or 3
- Fragile tag where relevant
- Box number: 3 of 18, 4 of 18
Priority system
- Priority 1: first night, bedding, towels, kettle, basic plates
- Priority 2: clothing, kitchen extras, desk items
- Priority 3: decor, books, seasonal items
This system makes international removals to France feel organised from the first unload.
Fragile items and high value items
If an item would hurt to replace financially or emotionally, treat it like high value. The best protection is to reduce movement to almost zero.
For fragile and high value items in international removals to France:
- Wrap individually, then stabilise inside the box so nothing rattles
- Use rigid protection for flat items, mirrors, framed art
- Avoid mixed boxes with heavy and fragile items together
- Photograph valuable items before packing
If you have designer furniture, art, antiques, or premium finishes, White Glove handling can be the safest path.
White Glove option for delicate interiors
White Glove delivery is for moves where no damage means more than no breakage. It is perfect when you care about finishes, placement, and precision.
White Glove support can include:
- High protection wrapping for premium surfaces
- Careful placement in the correct room
- Reduced pressure marks with padded securement
- Extra care in tight stairwells and narrow halls
Learn more here: https://vanonsite.com/white-glove-delivery-service/
Documents and customs for international removals to France
Documents do not need to be complicated. They need to be complete. A clear inventory plus the right IDs can prevent delays.
The rules depend on where you are moving from. Below is a practical way to approach international removals to France.
If your move is inside the EU
EU to EU moves are generally simpler, but you still want a clear inventory and proof of what is being transported.
- EU guidance: https://europa.eu/youreurope/
If your move crosses the UK border
If your route crosses the UK border, plan for customs and declarations:
- UK EORI guidance: https://www.gov.uk/eori
- UK personal goods guidance: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-how-to-declare-personal-goods-you-bring-into-or-take-out-of-the-uk
- French customs portal: https://www.douane.gouv.fr/particuliers
If your move is from outside the EU
Moves from outside the EU can require additional documentation and declarations.
- French customs portal: https://www.douane.gouv.fr/particuliers
Recommended paperwork pack
Bring one clear pack, digital and printed.
- Itemised inventory with values
- Proof of address where relevant
- IDs for all travellers
- High value items list
What a strong inventory looks like
| Inventory field | Why it matters |
| Item description | Clear identification |
| Quantity | Fast checks |
| Value | Supports declarations |
| Photos for high value items | Reduces disputes |
| Box number and room | Faster unloading |
Keep your paperwork and essentials with you, not inside a random box.
Access, parking, and building rules
Access is the silent cost driver in international removals to France. Two moves can look identical on paper, then one ends up slower because of a tight stairwell, a lift booking, or a street where you cannot stop for more than five minutes.
If you want a smooth day, treat access like part of the move, not a detail.
What to measure before quote
A quote is only as accurate as your measurements. Send these details and you will usually get a sharper, faster price.
- Largest item dimensions: height, width, depth
- Total estimated volume in m3 and an approximate total weight
- Door widths at the tightest point, including building entrances
- Lift cabin size and lift weight limit, if applicable
- Stair details: number of flights, tight turns, and landing space
- Carry distance from parking to door, in metres
- Floor level for pickup and delivery
Quick measurement table
| Measure | Why it matters | Quick tip |
| Largest item size | Prevents the wrong vehicle and awkward loading | Measure with doors open |
| Door width | Stops last minute dismantling | Include corridor pinch points |
| Lift size and limit | Avoids lift refusal on the day | Photograph the lift plate |
| Carry distance | Impacts handling time by 20% to 40% | Count steps, estimate metres |
| Parking rules | Prevents fines and forced reloading | Ask building management |
If your move is compact and access is tight, a man and van solution can be a smart fit for international removals to France, especially in dense city areas.
City access tips
City centres can be beautiful and unforgiving. These tips keep international removals to France calm in places like Paris, Lyon, Nice, and old town areas.
- Check parking permits early: some areas require a booked loading space
- Book lifts when needed: buildings often require scheduled lift usage
- Choose a realistic time window: rush hours can double your carry time
- Protect shared areas: blankets, corner guards, and floor protection help avoid disputes
- Keep essentials separate: keys, documents, chargers, and bedding should stay with you
City ready checklist
- Confirm access codes and intercom names
- Reserve parking or loading bay
- Confirm lift booking rules
- Clear hallways and stair landings
- Tell neighbours or reception
Delivery day checklist
A successful delivery is not luck. It is a sequence. Use this checklist and your international removals to France will feel organised from first lift to final sign off.
Before pickup
- Finalise inventory and box numbers
- Prepare documents and IDs
- Confirm pickup time window and site contact
- Reserve parking and confirm building rules
- Confirm equipment: blankets, straps, padding, trolley
- Pack an essentials bag for 48 hours
During loading
- Confirm the load plan: heavy items first, heavy low
- Protect corners and premium finishes before strapping
- Keep fragile boxes separate and clearly labelled
- Photograph high value items before they go in
- Do a final sweep of cupboards, loft, and storage
Loading rules that prevent damage
- Straps always with padding
- No loose items inside furniture
- Boxes under 20 kg where possible
- Keep upright rules visible on appliances
On arrival in France
- Confirm parking access and unloading zone
- Walk the route from vehicle to rooms before moving
- Place Priority 1 boxes first, then furniture, then Priority 3
- Keep hardware bags and accessories with their matching items
Sign off and condition photos
Before you sign, take a calm, quick check.
- Photograph key items from all sides
- Verify serials for high value items where relevant
- Note any damage on the delivery notes before signing
- Keep a copy of signed paperwork
Fast sign off table
| Step | What to do | Why it matters |
| Photos | 5 to 10 quick photos | Clear evidence, less stress |
| Inventory check | Tick off boxes and key items | Prevents missing item panic |
| Notes | Write issues before signing | Protects your position |
First week in France checklist
The move does not end when the last box lands. The first week is where your new life clicks into place. This checklist keeps the first days after international removals to France feeling grounded.
First 72 hours
- Unpack Priority 1 boxes and set up sleeping areas
- Check utilities, internet, and mobile coverage
- Confirm your address details for deliveries and subscriptions
- Store important documents safely and scan them
- Do a quick damage review while everything is fresh
First 7 days
- Tackle one room per day
- Break down boxes and recycle
- Confirm local waste rules and collection days
- Save manuals and spare parts in one labelled box
- Update insurers, banks, and key services with the new address
Planning your route or want a premium service with GPS tracking? Start here:
FAQ
How long do international removals to France take?
Most international removals to France fall into these planning windows:
- Dedicated: 2 to 6 days
- Part load: 4 to 12 days
- Man and van: 2 to 8 days
If your building requires a booked lift or a fixed unloading slot, add a buffer of 1 day. If parking is far from the entrance, handling can take 20% to 40% longer.
Dedicated vs part load vs man and van
The best choice depends on your deadline and how compact your shipment is.
- Dedicated international removals to France: best for fixed dates, full moves, and high value items
- Part load international removals to France: best for flexible windows and smaller moves
- Man and van: best for compact loads, city access, and fast collections
If you are unsure, send room photos and a short inventory.
What documents do I need?
For international removals to France, documents depend on your route.
- EU guidance: https://europa.eu/youreurope/
- UK EORI guidance: https://www.gov.uk/eori
- UK personal goods guidance: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-how-to-declare-personal-goods-you-bring-into-or-take-out-of-the-uk
- French customs portal: https://www.douane.gouv.fr/particuliers
A strong paperwork pack usually includes:
- Itemised inventory with realistic values
- IDs for all travellers
- Proof of address where relevant
- High value items list and photos
What is the cheapest way to move?
The cheapest safe route for international removals to France is usually a part load move with a flexible delivery window.
To lower international removals to France cost without lowering standards:
- Be flexible by 3 to 7 days
- Pack smart and keep most boxes under 20 kg
- Reserve parking and book lifts early
- Send clear measurements and photos so quotes stay accurate
Can you move furniture only?
Yes. International removals to France can be furniture only, from a single sofa to a full set of key pieces.
If you have premium finishes or delicate items, White Glove delivery is the safest option:
Do you provide packing and White Glove?
Yes. For international removals to France, you can add:
- Packing Service: https://vanonsite.com/packing-services/
- White Glove Delivery: https://vanonsite.com/white-glove-delivery-service/
Do you provide GPS tracking?
Yes. VANonsite provides GPS tracking for every load, so your international removals to France feel clear and predictable.
Summary
International removals to France do not have to feel overwhelming. When you measure properly, confirm access, pack with care, and choose the right transport model, the move becomes controlled and calm.
VANonsite delivers premium international removals to France with:
- GPS tracking for every load
- Dedicated, part load, and man and van options
- Packing and White Glove services for delicate items
- Support for home, office, and student moves
Get started here:
