Moving your life to Spain means deciding what to ship, what to sell, and how to get it all there. International moving to Spain involves shipping household goods, personal items, vehicles, and for many families — beloved pets.
International Shipping Options
- Full container (FCL) — Best if you are moving a full household. A 20ft container fits a 1-2 bedroom home; a 40ft container fits a 3-4 bedroom home.
- Shared container (LCL) — More affordable if you are shipping less than a full container. Your items share space with other shipments.
- Air freight — Fastest (5-10 days) but most expensive. Best for essential items you need immediately.
Costs and Timelines
Sea freight from the US East Coast to Spain takes approximately 2-4 weeks. From the West Coast, add another 1-2 weeks. From the UK, it is typically 1-2 weeks by sea or 3-5 days by road freight. Costs vary widely — a full 20ft container from the US typically ranges from $3,000 to $6,000 plus customs and delivery.
Pet Relocation
Moving pets to Spain requires an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel), an EU health certificate from a USDA-accredited vet (US) or APHA (UK), and for some breeds, additional documentation. Airlines have specific requirements for in-cabin vs cargo transport.
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Get international moving and shipping quotes →Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, tax, or immigration advice. Immigration rules, consulate requirements, and financial thresholds can change without notice. Always verify current requirements with your specific Spanish consulate and consult a qualified immigration lawyer or tax advisor before making decisions based on this content. We make every effort to keep this information accurate and up to date, but we cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy at any given time.