Moving to France

Nowship offers micro moving services to France and moving services from France. It is the perfect moving system for shipping what is essential. If you are only moving a small amount of your valued goods or if you have a larger move via ocean, our micro move solution is a perfect add on to get what's needed there fast.

Below are document requirements and information regarding French Customs for your move to France. 

Used Household Goods and Personal Effects for France

Documents Required 

  • Copy of passport
  • Visa, if applicable 
  • Packing List 
  • Detailed Inventory valued in Euro and signed by the owner of the goods
  • Certificate of change of residence by the French Consulate
  • Certificate of Transfer
  • Non-resale attestation
  • Proof of residence in France
  • Bill of lading (express release) / air waybill (AWB)
  • Sales invoices for items purchased within 6 months prior to import

Specific Information

  • Owner of the goods’ presence for Customs clearance is not required.
  • A visa is only necessary if other documentation cannot be provided.
  • Packing list is not required for Customs clearance, but is required at time of delivery
    • Certificate of change of residence by the French consulate must show that the owner of the goods has established primary residence in origin country for at least 12 months.
      • If less than 12 months abroad, the shipment is subject to more duties and taxes.
  • Certificate of transfer must be on employer letterhead with date of employment in the origin country and date of transfer.
    • Certificate of transfer must also show proof of at least 12 months abroad and primary residence in origin country.
    • This document may not be accepted by all Customs office for free entry.
  • Non-resale attestation must be completed, dated, and signed by the owner of the goods and must mention a vehicle when applicable.
  • Proof of residence in France, such as last phone, electricity bill, or rental contract (less than 3 months old).
  • Sales invoices must clearly identify items, date, year, and place of purchase.
  • Used household goods in the owner of the goods’ possession or use for at least 6 months are duty free if the owner of the goods’ primary residence will be in France. 
  • If the payment of duties is required, authorization must be obtained from French Customs prior to arrival.
  • For countries outside Europe items are subject to VAT of 20% plus duties (about 10%).
  • Customs clearance takes approximately 3 to 4 days to clear the effects.
  • For free entry, transfer of primary residence and the owner of the goods must have spent at least 12 months abroad.

Restricted/Dutiable Items

  • Alcoholic beverages must be registered and are permitted within the limits indicated by persons 17 years and older as accompanied baggage (include a separate and detailed inventory of each item and an import license / state liquor license may be required):
    • Wine (4 L)
    • Beer (16 L)
    • Alcohol not exceeding 22% alcohol by volume (2 L)
    • Alcohol exceeding 22% alcohol by volume (1 L)
  • Only "Fond de Cave" (15 bottles).
  • Tobacco products are subject to duty or tax payments and can be imported by persons 17 years and older as accompanied baggage.
  • Firearms and weapons (proof of ownership, registration / certificates / licenses are required and must be obtained prior to import).
    • Contact agent for specific information as some weapons are prohibited.
  • Medications for personal use only are permitted.
  • Customs clearance takes approximately 3 to 4 days once required documentation is obtained.

Prohibited Items

  • Weapons, ammunitions, and explosives 
  • Products made from animals (ivory, turtle shell, etc.) 
  • Endangered flora and fauna species and products made from them 
  • Items protected by the 1973 Washington Convention  (CITES)
  • Narcotics and drugs

Cultural and Other Information

CIA World Factbook Entry for France

Wikipedia Entry for France