Explore the World with Astra Removals - Your Trusted Partner for International Relocations in Reading

At Astra Removals, we understand that relocating to another country is not just a change of address; it’s a significant life event filled with excitement and challenges. Based in Reading, we specialize in offering comprehensive international removals that cater to your specific needs. From packing your belongings with the utmost care to navigating the complexities of customs and international regulations, our experienced team is here to ensure a seamless transition to your new home abroad.

Our international removal services include a wide range of options tailored specifically for individuals and families moving overseas. We provide expert packing, shipping, and delivery services, ensuring that your items arrive safely and on time. With our extensive network of partners around the globe, we can manage logistics efficiently and handle all the necessary paperwork, allowing you to focus on settling into your new environment. Trust Astra Removals for a stress-free international move from Reading.

Whether you're relocating to France, Spain, or further afield, Astra Removals provides a comprehensive international moving service. We handle everything from packing and export wrapping to customs documentation and delivery at your new home abroad.

European Removals

We run regular services to popular European destinations:

• France — Regular weekly services to all regions including Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Provence, and the Dordogne
• Spain — Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Barcelona, Madrid, and the Balearic Islands
• Portugal — The Algarve, Lisbon, Porto, and Silver Coast
• Germany — Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and surrounding areas
• Italy — Tuscany, Rome, Milan, and the Italian Lakes
• Other destinations — Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Greece, and Scandinavia

Dedicated vs Part-Load

We offer two options depending on the volume of your move:

• Dedicated vehicle — Your belongings have the entire truck. Best for full household moves (3+ bedroom properties). Direct, faster delivery.
• Part-load / groupage — Your items share space with other shipments heading the same way. More affordable for smaller moves or single items. Delivery typically within 7-14 days.

What's Included

• Door-to-door service from your UK home to your new property abroad
• Export-quality packing using international-grade materials
• Customs documentation and declarations handled for you
• Full transit insurance available as an add-on covering the entire journey (priced by declared value — quoted separately)
• Storage at origin or destination if needed (flexible terms)
• Vehicle and pet transport can be arranged through trusted partners
• Unpacking and debris removal at destination available

Post-Brexit: What You Need to Know

Since the UK left the EU, moving to Europe involves customs declarations for household goods. In most cases, personal effects and household items being moved as part of a permanent relocation are exempt from import duties. We handle all the paperwork, including:

• Customs inventory lists
• Transfer of residence (ToR) declarations
• Certificate of origin documents where required
• Guidance on prohibited and restricted items by country

Our experienced team has handled hundreds of post-Brexit moves and knows the requirements for each European country.

The International Move Process

1. Survey & Quote — We assess your home (in person or by video call) and provide a detailed, fixed-price quotation covering everything.
2. Packing — Our team packs your entire home using export-quality materials. Fragile items, artwork, and electronics receive specialist treatment.
3. Loading — Everything is carefully loaded onto our vehicle with a complete inventory list. You'll receive a copy.
4. Transit — Your belongings are transported directly to your new home. We handle all border crossings and customs formalities.
5. Delivery — We unload, unpack (if requested), place furniture where you want it, and remove all packing materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an international move take?
Dedicated loads to France typically take 2-3 days. Spain and Portugal 4-6 days. Part-loads may take 7-14 days depending on consolidation schedules.

Do I need to pay import duty on my belongings?
In most cases, personal household goods being relocated as part of a permanent move are exempt from import duties under transfer of residence rules. We'll advise on your specific situation.

Can you move my car as well?
We can arrange vehicle transport through our trusted partners. Cars can be shipped on the same truck (space permitting) or via specialist vehicle transport.