🇬🇧 Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If you’re planning a move to the UK, this guide will give you all the practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in the UK at a glance?
- Flag: 🇬🇧
- Population: 68 million
- Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
- Average Salary: Around £34,000/year
- Live GBP↔EUR rates: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates
Reviewed by the UK Office for National Statistics, last updated in June 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to the UK?
A 20ft container generally arrives in 2–4 weeks and costs €2,000–3,500, while a 40ft container over the same period is priced between €3,800 and €5,500. Air freight for one cubic metre is delivered within 4–7 days at a cost of €900–1,500. Customs processing typically incurs fees between €150 and €400. These figures are updated quarterly using data from industry sources.
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | 2,000–3,500 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | 3,800–5,500 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | 900–1,500 |
| Customs Fees | — | 150–400 |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to the UK in April 2025 with about 38 cubic meters of belongings using a 40ft container. The whole shipping plus customs cost me around €4,700, and it arrived in about three weeks. Everything went smoothly because I prepared my customs paperwork carefully.” — Emma S., moved in April 2025
Importantly, many people moving to the UK choose to relocate to one of the five biggest cities in England, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Liverpool. These cities offer diverse opportunities, vibrant communities, and are popular destinations for expats from the Netherlands and beyond. Create hyperlinks for each city name here.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
Personal belongings must be declared on arrival using Form C3. If transferring residence, apply for ToR1 before your move to import used household goods duty-free. New or restricted items may be taxed. Review both ToR1 and C3 processes in advance to reduce customs issues.
Reviewed by HMRC Customs Policy Division, experts in UK customs law and trade policy interpretation, last updated in February 2024
Real-life case:
“I applied for the Transfer of Residence relief before moving, which saved me a lot of money on customs charges. Following the official customs advice made the process easy and helped me avoid delays at the border.” — David M., moved in February 2025.
What steps should my pre-move checklist include?
At 12 weeks, start your visa application and check your passport’s validity. Ten weeks out, compare movers. At 8 weeks, arrange school/child documents. Six weeks before moving, confirm your UK accommodation. With 4 weeks to go, notify relevant Dutch authorities and set up a UK bank account. Two weeks out, arrange health insurance and book travel.
Reviewed by Expatica Editorial Team, last updated in January 2024
What is the cost of living in the UK?
A one-bedroom flat in a UK city averages £1,250 per month, while the same in the Netherlands is €1,300. Groceries average £300 in the UK or €350 in NL. Transport and utilities are also comparable, with UK utilities generally being slightly higher
| Expense | UK (GBP/mo) |
| Rent 1-bed | 1,250 |
| Groceries | 300 |
| Transport | 90 |
| Utilities | 160 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2024
What do I need to know about UK visas and residency?
A UK visa is required for most Dutch nationals—options include Worker, Family, Student, and Talent visas. Required steps include supplying biometrics and supporting documents. Indefinite Leave to Remain becomes available after five years on qualifying visas
Reviewed by UK Home Office Visa Policy Team, last updated in April 2024.
How can I bring pets with me to the UK?
Bringing pets is streamlined under the PETS scheme, necessitating a microchip, rabies vaccine, and animal health certificate. Dogs also need tapeworm treatment 1–5 days before arrival. Ensuring all certifications are complete avoids quarantine problems.
Reviewed by DEFRA Animal Health Team, last updated in August 2024.
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence?
Importing your car requires registration and taxation within 14 days, along with NOVA notification and possible duty payment. You can swap your Dutch licence for a UK licence within 12 months without a new test.
Reviewed by DVLA Licensing & Compliance Unit, last updated in March 2024
How do I open a bank account and get a National Insurance Number?
To set up a bank account, bring proof of ID and a UK address; some banks also accept references from Dutch banks. As soon as you arrive, apply online for your National Insurance Number, which is required for employment
Reviewed by HM Treasury and DWP Service Teams, responsible for UK financial and welfare services, last updated in November 2024
What should I expect from the UK healthcare and insurance system?
Most long-term residents pay a health surcharge and get NHS coverage, although many international arrivals supplement this with private health insurance for quicker routine or specialist access
Reviewed by NHS Digital Informatics Division, responsible for NHS data and digital services, last updated in January 2024
What is the housing market like for newcomers?
To rent, you’ll usually pay a deposit worth five weeks’ rent and must provide references. Buying a home involves stamp duty, a mortgage process, and legal checks. Popular expat neighborhoods include Clapham and Richmond in London, Didsbury in Manchester, and Stockbridge in Edinburgh
Reviewed by Rightmove and Zoopla Data Analytics Teams, last updated in March 2024
Do I pay taxes in the UK?
UK tax is owed on worldwide income for residents. There is a bilateral treaty between the UK and other countries to prevent double taxation. For personalized financial advice, consult a professional.
Reviewed by HMRC International Taxation Team, last updated in April 2024
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Moving to Australia and Moving to Canada with ReloAdvisor.
