Quick Start: Moving to Belgium Checklist
Before your move, make sure you:
- Decide whether to move your belongings yourself or hire a professional moving company.
- Request quotes from multiple movers and compare services.
- Check whether customs formalities apply to your move.
- Arrange a temporary parking permit if a moving truck needs to park outside your new home.
- Prepare travel documents for your pets if applicable.
- Complete vehicle registration procedures if bringing a car to Belgium.
- Confirm delivery dates and insurance coverage for your belongings.
Choosing a Moving Company in Belgium
There are several ways to move your household goods to Belgium. Some people choose to organise the move independently, while others hire an international removal company.
Working with a professional mover can be particularly helpful if:
- You are shipping a large volume of belongings.
- You are moving internationally.
- You need assistance with customs paperwork.
- You want insurance coverage for valuable items.
When comparing moving companies:
- Request detailed quotations.
- Ask about insurance options.
- Verify whether packing services are included.
- Check estimated delivery times.
You can consult recognised international moving companies through organisations such as FIDI and the Belgian association of accredited movers.
Temporary Parking Permits for Moving Day
Moving trucks often need dedicated space close to your home for loading and unloading.
In Leuven and other Belgian municipalities, you may need to request a temporary parking reservation or parking prohibition (parkeerverbod) so the moving vehicle can park nearby. Applications usually need to be submitted several days in advance, although exact requirements depend on the municipality.
Tip
Contact your local municipality or police service as soon as your moving date is confirmed to avoid last-minute issues.
Moving Pets to Belgium
Dogs and cats travelling within the European Union must generally have:
- A valid EU Pet Passport
- Identification through a microchip
- Up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies vaccination
Without the required documentation, your pet may not be allowed entry.
Animals entering Belgium from outside the EU must be identifiable and accompanied by official documentation along the same lines of the EU Pet Passport.
Bringing Your Car to Belgium
If you plan to import a vehicle when moving to Belgium, registration procedures depend on where you are moving from.
Bringing your car from an EU Country
When relocating from another EU member state, your vehicle must generally be:
- Registered with Belgian Customs.
- Registered with the Belgian Vehicle Registration Service (DIV).
Bringing your car from Outside the EU
Vehicles arriving from outside the European Union must be declared at customs when entering the EU. In many cases, the registration formalities can be completed after arrival in Belgium.
Customs Rules When Moving to Belgium
If you are moving from outside the European Union, customs regulations may apply to your personal belongings.
You may need to:
- Submit customs documentation.
- Provide proof that the goods are part of your household move.
- Demonstrate that the items are for personal use.
- Pay customs duties or taxes in some situations.
Requirements vary depending on your country of origin and the type of goods being imported.
How Much Does Moving to Belgium Cost?
The cost of an international move depends on several factors:
- Volume of belongings
- Distance travelled
- Method of transport (road, sea, or air freight)
- Packing services
- Insurance coverage
- Customs clearance requirements
Requesting multiple quotes is the best way to understand the expected cost of your move.
Helpful Dutch Words for Moving to Belgium
| Dutch | English |
|---|---|
| Verhuizen | To move house |
| Verhuisfirma | Moving company |
| Verhuiswagen | Moving truck |
| Parkeerverbod | Parking prohibition |
| Inboedel | Household belongings |
| Douane | Customs |
| Invoerrechten | Import duties |
| Voertuig | Vehicle |
| Inschrijving | Registration |
| Huisdier | Pet |
| Verzekering | Insurance |
| Offerte | Quote / estimate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move my belongings to Belgium without hiring a moving company?
Yes. Many people organise their own move. However, using a professional mover may simplify transport, customs procedures, and insurance coverage.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Leuven?
In many cases, yes. If the truck needs reserved parking space on a public road, you may need to request a temporary parking reservation in advance.
Can I bring my pet to Belgium?
Yes. Pets can be brought to Belgium if they meet EU entry requirements, including identification and the appropriate documentation.
Do I pay customs duties when moving to Belgium?
Possibly. People moving from outside the EU may need to complete customs formalities, and some goods may be subject to duties or taxes.
Can I bring my car when relocating to Belgium?
Yes. Both EU and non-EU residents can import a vehicle, but registration and customs procedures must be completed after arrival.
How far in advance should I plan my move?
Ideally, begin planning at least 6 to 8 weeks before your moving date, especially if you are using an international moving company or importing a vehicle.