Customs paperwork and a practical delivery plan deserve equal attention.
Check the correct customs route
French Customs distinguishes EU moves from transfers of main residence from outside the EU. Its published non-EU relief conditions include at least 12 months of residence outside the EU and at least six months of private use of the belongings, along with other conditions. Goods for a second home are treated differently. Confirm eligibility before relying on a duty-and-tax exemption.
Describe your circumstances accurately when speaking with the clearance representative. Moving permanently, spending part of the year abroad and furnishing a second residence are not interchangeable explanations.
Build the documents around one inventory
French Customs lists a detailed, valued, dated and signed inventory in duplicate, the relevant Cerfa 10070 declaration and evidence of the change of residence. Its guidance generally requires import within 12 months of the residence transfer. For split shipments, the first inventory must include all goods for which relief is claimed. Restrictions also apply to disposing of goods after duty-free import.
Create a private master list that separates packed cartons, large furniture and items travelling with you. Give each carton a number. Before collection, compare the physical load with the latest list and flag changes to the person responsible for customs documents.
Plan the route into the property
Ask about loading access, parking arrangements, lifts and stairs at the actual address. If you are moving into an older apartment building, measure the tightest turns and openings rather than assuming standard furniture will fit. Discuss any potential need for specialist handling before the delivery is booked.
Where permits or reservations may be needed, identify who is responsible for checking and arranging them. Property-specific requirements should be confirmed with the building or relevant local authority. A moving date alone does not establish that unloading access is available.
Pack for the move you are making
Separate travel essentials from the freight and consider what you will need while awaiting delivery. Keep important documents and work equipment with you. Ask for a packing plan that reflects delicate pieces, storage periods and the chosen transport method.
For art, antiques or valuable collections, discuss condition records, suitable packing and protection options in advance. Tell the team if an item has special handling instructions. Do not leave the first discussion of a delicate piece until the truck is outside.
Make the quote easy to compare
Request a written scope covering origin handling, transport, destination services and any optional packing or storage. Ask which charges can arise if the shipment is inspected, delayed or cannot be delivered. Clarify who will keep you informed at each stage.
Kratos has a presence in France and can discuss the moving plan for your route. Share the origin and destination, your intended dates and the inventory. Confirm the specific destination service and customs arrangements before scheduling collection.
BEFORE YOU GO
Your move, one check at a time.
- Confirm main-residence customs eligibility
- Create one dated shipment inventory
- Review documents with the clearance contact
- Measure delivery access
- Agree the complete moving scope
Official sources & further reading
Customs guidance checked 29 September 2026. Requirements depend on your circumstances and can change. Confirm the current process with the relevant authority before shipping.