Devon Van Removals

How to Prepare for an Overseas Move from South Devon

by rich@devonvanremovals.co.uk

Moving Abroad from Devon: A Practical Guide to Stress-Free International Removals

Thinking about a new life in France, Spain, Germany or beyond? Moving abroad is exciting—but the paperwork, packing and transport can be a headache if you go it alone. This guide covers what to plan, how to pack, and how Devon Van Removals can make the whole journey smoother from the South Hams and wider Devon area.

At a glance: your moving-abroad checklist

  • Decide move date and destination paperwork requirements

  • Create a room-by-room inventory (photos help)

  • Separate take / store / donate / dispose

  • Measure access at both addresses (lanes, height restrictions, stairs, lifts)

  • Confirm parking/permits for loading and unloading

  • Choose packing level: full pack, fragile-only, or self-pack

  • Arrange cover for goods in transit

  • Prepare important documents (see below)

  • Book ferry/Eurotunnel times that suit delivery windows

  • Final walk-through and meter readings on departure day

Documents you’ll typically need

Every country is different, but most international moves require:

  • Passports for all family members

  • Detailed inventory of household effects (we can provide templates)

  • Proof of address / residency at origin and destination

  • Visa/registration paperwork if required by the destination

  • Insurance certificate for your consignment

Tip: keep originals in a slim folder in your hand luggage; put copies in a clearly labelled box you’ll unpack first.

Packing options (and what we recommend)

  • Full professional pack: We pack everything, supply materials, and label by room. Fastest and safest—ideal for international moves.

  • Fragile-only pack: You box the easy stuff; we pack glass, artwork, TVs and heirlooms.

  • Self-pack: We drop materials in advance and share our packing guide.

For overseas moves we strongly recommend double-walled cartons, export-wrap for furniture, and picture/mirror cartons. Mattresses should be bagged; sofas and armchairs wrapped in quilted covers. We bring removal blankets and ratchet straps to secure everything in transit.

Access in Devon lanes (and at your new home)

We know South Hams lanes can be tight—our Mercedes Sprinter Luton can tranship to smaller vans if access is limited. Send us a quick phone video or a few photos of your lane, gates and driveway; we’ll plan the best approach and, if needed, a shuttle service at either end.

Ferries, timing & route planning

We’ll agree a schedule that matches your crossing (Ferry or Eurotunnel) and your key collection time abroad. For multi-day trips we secure the van overnight and keep you updated on progress. If delivery has to be split across days, we’ll plan a clean, safe overnight hold of your goods.

Insurance & peace of mind

We offer goods-in-transit cover and can tailor limits for high-value items (art, instruments, antiques). Tell us what’s precious; we’ll add extra protection and packing.

What we do (so you don’t have to)

  • Pre-move survey (in person or via WhatsApp video)

  • Bespoke move plan and inventory templates

  • All packing materials, export-grade wraps and protectors

  • Disassembly/reassembly (beds, wardrobes, tables)

  • Careful loading, securing and customs-friendly labelling

  • Ferry/Eurotunnel scheduling and route planning

  • Unloading to room, unwrapping and removal of packing waste

How far in advance should you book?

For international moves, 4–6 weeks’ notice is ideal (more in summer). We can sometimes help at shorter notice—just ask.

What does it cost?

Costs depend on volume, packing level, access, distance and ferry prices. After a quick survey we’ll give a fixed, written quote so there are no surprises.

Areas we cover

Based in South Milton (near Salcombe & Kingsbridge), we cover the whole of South Hams, Plymouth, Totnes, Ivybridge, Dartmouth, and across Devon—with regular trips to France, Spain, Germany, Norway and Sweden.

FAQs

How do I estimate the volume of my move?
We’ll do that with you during a survey. As a rough guide, a typical 2-bed flat is 20–30m³; a family 3-bed house is 30–45m³.

Can you move plants, paints or gas bottles?
We can take most household items, but some hazardous or perishable goods aren’t allowed. We’ll advise case-by-case.

What about TVs, mirrors and artwork?
We use TV boxes and picture cartons with corner protection. For valuable pieces, we add extra cushioning and “upright” labelling.

Will you assemble beds at the new home?
Yes—we can disassemble and reassemble standard beds and furniture. Tell us about anything unusual (e.g., designer systems).

Do I need to be there on delivery?
It’s best if you are, but if not, we can liaise with your agent/landlord and send photos of rooms once placed.

Ready to plan your move abroad?

Get a quick, friendly survey and a fixed quote:

We’ll build you a clear, stress-free plan from Devon to destination—and carry the heavy bits with a smile.

Contact Devon Van Removals
📞 07703 040469 📧 rich@devonvanremovals.co.uk