Removals to Germany

How is the cost of removals calculated?

A number of factors will be included when calculating the cost of your move such as the distance our vehicles have to travel to get to you, the volume of your effects (and the space they take up in the vehicle) and customs documentation fees along with a number of extra considerations that may be specific to your move.

Some of these extra services can be costly as they must be arranged independently on the German side. Our estimator will let you know if they think there could be any extra services that may apply to your move.

What packaging materials do you use?

We endeavour to use environmentally friendly packing materials which are specifically sourced to ensure they are eco-friendly. All of our used cardboard is compacted and sent to a recycling facility. We use double-thickness cartons to wrap china and glassware, quilted blankets to wrap items such as sofas and armchairs, and bubble wrap is also used to ensure your possessions arrive safely. We also use wooden made-to-measure crates to safeguard more high-value, fragile items such as antiques.

Can I drive my own car to Germany and how do I get it there?

Exporting your car to Germany is legal, however, it does involve quite a lot of paperwork. There are also some details you need to be aware of. If you bring a car to Germany from outside the EU, you are liable to pay an import duty of 10% of the car’s value, plus VAT. You are exempt from these fees however if you are moving to Germany as a full-time resident, have given up residency in your home country, the vehicle has been used for more than six months, or if it has acquired more than 6000 kilometres (3730 miles).

It may also be necessary to make some modifications to the vehicle to satisfy German safety standards. Before you make your decision to export your car you will need to familiarise yourself with German traffic rules and regulations. White and Company can arrange to transport your car directly to your new home in one of our large trucks as part of our vehicle shipping service.

The earlier you plan your vehicle shipping, the less stressful the move should be. To start planning, contact our experienced team who will take you through the process or enquire during the survey stage to obtain a quote.

How can I open a German bank account?

You need to register in Germany before you are able to open a German bank account. Make an appointment with the bank and take your passport and confirmation of your registration or (Meldebescheinigung) document.

The most common account is called a Giro account. It is like a checking account or current account and various banks offer various services for differing fees with a Giro account. Some of the popular banks for those who speak English are Deutsche Bank (they offer all services in English). The N26 Bank, also called Number26 offer their services in English, but you have to specifically request an English-speaking employee.

Online accounts require you to have a basic command of the German language. Many Brits start with the basic account and once their German improves, they move to using the online system.

Can I use my UK bank/credit cards in Germany?

As a general rule yes. Credit cards are widely accepted as are most Debit Cards in large stores, hotels restaurants and supermarkets. It is wise to check before you purchase as in some cases, they may not be compatible with older German technology. The most commonly used German bank card is a debit card which is called a “EC-Karte” There are plenty of ATMs or (Geldautomats) most do not charge for withdrawing cash. Their locations are easily recognizable by a large EC sign.

How can I get a well-paying job in Germany?

With a burgeoning economy centred around migration, the German job market has much to offer expats in a range of sectors. Most notably within the automotive industry and finance services. Looking for a job in Germany can be a cause of great frustration however due to the high levels of bureaucracy involved, meaning your search will take time and patience.

Currently, one in five expats in Germany work in the IT industry and people with the right skills are highly sought after. Other high-demand areas of employment are managerial roles, researchers, engineers, doctors, nurses and medical assistants.

Knowing where to look for employment and what skills are in demand is just one piece of the puzzle. Despite being a multi-lingual country with high levels of spoken English, learning and having a good grasp of Germany will strengthen your chances of securing highly-paid employment. There are several good online recruitment agencies who will point you in the right direction and can offer services such as CV preparation and useful interview techniques, tips and general advice.