Importing Goods To Portugal
Importing Your Personal Effects
Portugal is a popular destination for UK citizens looking to retire or start a new life in the sun. Britannia can offer you a door to door service to Portugal, and several of our Britannia network of companies specialise in moving regularly to Spain and Portugal. Portugal is a full member of the EU, so documentation required should merely be a copy of your passport.
Custom clearance/documentation
Portugal is a full member of the EU, documentation required should be merely a copy of your passport but in some of the Islands they still ask for a copy of your rental agreement/house purchase document. Britannia will advise you of the requirements prior to your move.
Transit Times
Britannia companies that service Portugal on a regular basis will most likely have a vehicle there every two weeks. From time of collection by your local Britannia member to delivery in Portugal will on average be between two and four weeks.
Computer Tracking
Through satellite and computer technology we are able to monitor the progress of your consignment.
Bar Coding
All Groupage consignments will be bar coded before they are loaded into the shipping container. This will ensure that no items are left at origin.
Prohibitions and Restrictions
In general it is in your interest not to import the following items:
- Firearms & ammunition
- Inflammable goods & substances
- Plants & plant material
- Perishables or otherwise
- Alcohol, narcotics and dangerous goods
- Offensive material
Despite the ‘free market’ of the European Union there are restrictions in transporting some classes of goods across borders and within some countries. Several countries restrict the value or volume/weight of such goods as alcohol, tobacco and cigarettes. Recent changes to legislation in Europe means that it is now forbidden to travel through France in any vehicle carrying more than a minimal amount of cigarettes or alcohol. If a vehicle is stopped and searched and these are found amongst household effects there are huge fines plus the costs of delays to the vehicle and costs to any third parties who are thus also affected.
Britannia In Portugal
Britannia has established a long standing and successful relationship with a network of local Portuguese companies who can assist with the delivery of your your effects if required. Our agents are part of our extended Britannia family, and we meet with them on a regular basis to ensure high standards of service are maintained.
Storage
Should you require storage prior to delivery this can be arranged. You should expect to pay locally a one off storage handling fee, plus a monthly storage charge. Please ensure that your marine insurance policy is extended for the period of the storage.
Insurance
Britannia Movers International is regulated by the Financial Services Authority and accordingly is authorised to provide fully comprehensive marine insurance cover.
Domestic Pets
Britannia can recommend a specialised shipper of animals to assist you in sending your family pet(s) from home to home. They will coordinate all documentation and necessary veterinary procedures.
Destination Services
If you have selected a full door to door service Britannia will deliver the goods to your new home. Goods will be placed in the relevant rooms. All furniture will be unwrapped and cartons packed by Britannia will be unpacked on to a flat surface and all used packing materials will be removed from site on the delivery day. Although there will be insurance implications you retain the right not to have some or all items unpacked should you choose. Alternative destination services are available subject to final destination and method of transport, Britannia can advise you of the options available.
Motor Vehicles
Britannia can move your car on a road transport vehicle. Your local Britannia company will be able to quote on this.
On Arrival
Britannia can offer advice and information on a variety of aspects relating to living in Portugal.
Money Transfer
Britannia are also able to recommend a Currency Broker who should give you a more competitive rate than your Bank and save you money.
