Your Complete Moving Guide → London
Your Complete Moving Guide to London removals. Fully insured, fixed price.
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Your Complete Moving Guide
Choosing the safest country to live in is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. If you are retiring abroad, relocating for work, or simply wanting a better quality of life, safety is rightly at the top of your checklist. This guide ranks the world's safest nations by crime rates, political stability, and everyday livability, and shows you exactly how Giant Van can move your belongings there without the stress. Call us on 020 3129 6180 to get a free quote today.
Local Expert Answer
Quick AnswerGiant Van is a UK-based international removal company serving customers across England, Scotland, and Wales. We provide removals to all major international destinations including the world's safest countries: Iceland, New Zealand, Switzerland, Denmark, Ireland, Singapore, Canada, Japan, Finland, and Austria. Our services are available from all major UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, Leeds, Cardiff, and Newcastle. Call 020 3129 6180 to speak to our team about your move from any UK location.
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Typical Properties in Your Complete Moving Guide
Understanding the property mix helps us plan the right crew size, van, and equipment for your move.
Semi-Detached
28%
Terraced Houses
26%
Flats & Apartments
22%
Detached Houses
18%
Bungalows
6%
Average Property Era: Mixed stock
Which Is the Safest Country to Live In Right Now?
Iceland consistently ranks as the safest country to live in, according to the Global Peace Index, which has placed it at number one for over a decade. Its homicide rate is near zero, gun ownership is tightly controlled, and the political environment is stable. Violent crime is so rare that police rarely carry firearms.
Switzerland follows closely, offering low crime, excellent healthcare, and one of the highest standards of living in the world. It is a neutral nation with a long history of political stability and strong civil institutions.
New Zealand, Denmark, Ireland, and Austria also sit near the top of annual safety rankings. Each country scores well on personal safety, freedom from conflict, and low corruption.
For families, Denmark stands out. Its welfare system, free education, and community-oriented culture make it particularly appealing for those with children. Ireland is another popular choice for UK nationals because of the Common Travel Area, which allows free movement without a visa.
Singapore is the top-ranked Asian nation for safety. Despite its compact size, it maintains exceptionally low crime through strong governance and community policing.
Japan, Canada, Finland, and the Netherlands round out the upper tier. All offer combination of personal safety, economic opportunity, and access to quality public services.
The safest country for you depends on your priorities. If you value natural beauty and outdoor living, Iceland or New Zealand may suit you best. If you prefer a central European lifestyle with easy access to other countries, Austria or Switzerland is worth serious consideration.
International Removal Costs: What to Budget
International removal costs vary based on destination, volume of belongings, and the services you choose.
Understanding the price breakdown helps you plan without surprises.
For a full household move from the UK to Europe, prices typically range from £2,000 to £6,000.
Moves to destinations such as New Zealand, Canada, or Singapore are naturally higher, generally between £4,000 and £12,000 depending on volume. These figures include packing, loading, transportation, and delivery to your new address.
The main cost drivers are:
- Volume: measured in cubic feet or cubic metres.
A studio flat might need around 200 cubic feet, while a four-bedroom family home could need 1,000 cubic feet or more. - Distance: longer routes mean higher freight costs, particularly for sea freight. - Service level: self-pack options cost less, but a full-pack service handled by our team saves time and reduces damage risk. - Port and customs fees: vary by country and shipment value. - Insurance: strongly recommended for international moves. Transit insurance is available through Giant Van for peace of mind.
To get an accurate figure for your move, call Giant Van on .
We will assess your requirements, discuss timelines, and provide a clear written quote with no hidden fees. We serve destinations across Europe, North America, Australasia, and Asia, including all the top-ranked safe countries covered in this guide.
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International Removal Price Guide
International removal costs depend on destination, volume, and service level. Below is a general guide to help you plan your budget. All prices are estimates; call 020 3129 6180 for your personalised written quote. UK to Europe (full household): £2,000 to £6,000. Transit by road takes three to ten days depending on destination. UK to Ireland: £1,500 to £3,500. Shorter transit, no customs complexities for most household goods. UK to Canada or USA: £4,000 to £10,000. Sea freight transit is typically six to ten weeks. UK to New Zealand or Australia: £5,000 to £12,000. Sea transit averages eight to twelve weeks. Air freight is faster but higher in cost. UK to Singapore or Japan: £4,500 to £9,000. Sea freight takes approximately five to eight weeks. UK to Switzerland or Iceland: £2,500 to £6,000. Both countries sit outside the EU and require standard customs documentation. These price ranges cover packing materials, loading, transportation, customs paperwork, and destination delivery. Transit insurance, specialist crating, and storage are available at additional cost. Volume discounts may apply for larger moves.
Property SizeStarting Price
Studio / 1-bed flatFrom £149
2-bed houseFrom £249Most Popular
3-bed houseFrom £399
4-bed houseFrom £549
Man and van (hourly)From £39/hr
All prices include a fully insured crew, van, and moving blankets. Packing services available as add-ons.
Get your exact priceTips for Moving to a Safe Country Abroad
8 Tips
Here are the most practical steps to make your relocation go smoothly.
Many countries, including Switzerland and Singapore, require work permits or residency applications months in advance. Start this process before you book a removal date.
If possible, spend two to four weeks living in your target country before finalising your move. This gives you a realistic picture of daily life, local transport, and neighbourhood feel.
International shipping is priced by volume. Getting rid of furniture you no longer need before your move can save hundreds of pounds and reduce your transit time.
Every country has rules about what can be brought in. New Zealand, for instance, has strict biosecurity checks on wood products, certain foods, and outdoor equipment. Australia has similar restrictions. Giant Van can advise you on country-specific regulations.
Many countries allow you to open a non-resident account in advance. Having local currency access from day one reduces financial stress during your first weeks.
This ensures you receive important safety updates and can access consular support if needed.
Know where you are sleeping on night one, how you are collecting the keys to your new property, and how your shipment will be delivered and cleared through customs.
How Removals in Your Complete Moving Guide Work
- 01
Tell us about your move
Enter your collection and delivery addresses, select your property size, and list any large items. See a fixed price in under 60 seconds.
- 02
Choose your moving day
Pick a date and time slot that works for you. Add packing materials or extra helpers if you need them.
- 03
Relax while we move you in
A fully insured crew arrives on time, wraps and loads your belongings, and delivers everything to your new home.
All Included
What Giant Van Includes in an International Move
Giant Van provides a fully managed international removal service.
Here is what is covered when you book with us.
A dedicated move coordinator handles your case from the first call through to delivery at your new address.
You have one point of contact throughout, which removes the back-and-forth confusion common with larger operators.
Professional packing is available for all moves.
Our team uses purpose-built export cartons, specialist wrapping for fragile items, and custom crating for antiques, artwork, or high-value pieces.
Every item is inventoried and labelled before loading.
Sea freight and air freight options are both available depending on your timeline and budget.
Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for full household moves.
Air freight suits urgent or smaller shipments.
Customs documentation is handled by our experienced team.
We prepare the necessary paperwork for your destination country, reducing the risk of delays at port.
Post-Brexit changes affect EU moves; we keep our processes up to date with current regulations.
Destination delivery includes delivery to your new property, placement in the rooms you specify, and unpacking if required.
We do not simply leave boxes at the kerb.
Transit insurance is offered with every move, covering your belongings from collection at your UK address to delivery at your new home.
Full replacement value cover is available.
Storage is also available if your new home is not ready when your shipment arrives.
Our secure facilities can hold your goods for as long as you need.
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DIY Move vs Professional Removal
DIY Move
- Van hire: £80–200 per day plus fuel
- No transit insurance for belongings
- Physical effort and injury risk
- Friends needed — plans fall through
- Multiple trips if van too small
Professional Removal
- Fixed price — no surprise charges
- £10,000 goods-in-transit insurance
- Trained crew handles heavy items
- Right-sized van every time
- Furniture blankets and straps provided
Step-by-Step: How to Book Your International Removal
01
Booking an international removal with Giant Van is straightforward.
Follow these steps to get started.
02
Contact us for a free assessment.
Call or complete our online enquiry form. Tell us your destination country, your planned moving date, and a rough idea of how much you need to move.
03
Receive your written quote.
Based on your assessment, we will send a detailed written quote covering packing, transportation, customs, and delivery. There are no hidden charges.
04
Confirm your booking and agree on a collection date.
We recommend booking at least eight to twelve weeks before your planned move, particularly for peak summer months.
05
Pre-move survey.
For larger moves, a surveyor will visit your home to take an accurate inventory. This also lets you ask questions and discuss any items that need special handling.
Popular Removal Routes From Your Complete Moving Guide
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London → Your Complete Moving Guide
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Why UK Residents Are Choosing to Move Abroad
The number of UK nationals living permanently overseas has remained above five million for years, according to the United Nations migration data.
The reasons for leaving vary, but safety, cost of living, and quality of life are consistently cited as the primary motivators.
For many British families, countries like New Zealand and Canada appeal because they offer English-speaking environments with lower crime rates and more affordable property than London or the South East.
Retirees frequently look to Portugal, Spain, and the south of France for a combination of warm climate, lower cost of living, and good healthcare access.
Portugal in particular has attracted significant numbers of UK expats through its tax incentive schemes and strong safety record.
Healthcare is another major pull factor.
Countries like Switzerland, Denmark, and the Netherlands offer healthcare systems ranked among the world's best, which is particularly relevant for older movers or families with medical needs.
Post-Brexit changes have added complexity to European moves for UK nationals.
Citizens now face visa and residency requirements that did not exist before January 2021. Giant Van has experience navigating these changes and can advise on the documentation required for your specific destination.
Climate also plays a role.
Following several years of increasingly extreme UK weather, some movers are seeking more stable or warmer climates. However, many safety-first destinations such as Iceland, Finland, and Canada have harsh winters, which is worth factoring into your planning.
Whatever your reason for moving, the process is manageable with the right support team in place.
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VerifiedBooked online in under a minute and the crew turned up right on time. Everything was wrapped carefully and nothing was damaged. Genuinely the easiest move I've had.
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VerifiedThe quote I got online was exactly what I paid. No hidden fees, no extra charges on the day. The two-man crew were professional, fast, and really friendly.
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Sarah K.Same-day booking saved our move
VerifiedOur original movers cancelled last minute. Giant Van had a crew available the same day. They handled a full 2-bed flat and had us settled in by evening.
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We know Your Complete Moving Guide well. Our drivers navigate the local streets daily, handling everything from narrow terraced house access to large detached properties. Every move is treated with care because our reputation in Your Complete Moving Guide depends on it.
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Why Choose Giant Van for Your International Move
Giant Van has built a reputation for reliable, professionally managed international removals from the UK. Here is what sets us apart.
Experience across all major destinations. We regularly handle moves to Iceland, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, Switzerland, Ireland, and across Europe. Our team knows the customs requirements, typical transit times, and local delivery considerations for each country.
Transparent pricing. We provide written quotes with no hidden fees. The price you receive upfront is the price you pay, unless you add services after your initial booking.
Single point of contact. You speak to one move coordinator from start to finish. This means consistent information and no time wasted repeating yourself to different members of staff.
Careful handling. Every item is inventoried and packed with proper export materials. Fragile and high-value items are wrapped individually and crated where needed. Our claim rate for damaged goods is exceptionally low.
Flexible service levels. Not every move needs the same level of support. We offer full-managed, part-managed, and self-pack options to suit your budget and timeline.
Storage options. If you need to move out before your new property is ready, we store your belongings securely until the time is right.
To speak to our team and get a free quote for your international removal, call today. We are ready to help you move to the safest country for your family.
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When Is the Best Time to Move?
UK moving demand follows seasonal patterns. Off-peak months typically offer lower prices and more crew availability.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season (higher demand, book early)
Off-Peak (better availability, lower prices)
Alternatives to Moving: What to Consider First
7 Tips
Before you book an international removal, it is worth considering whether a full relocation is right for you or whether other options might meet your needs.
Some people find that spending three to six months in a country gives them a much clearer picture of whether they want to live there permanently. Many countries offer long-stay visitor visas that allow this without requiring full residency.
If your employer allows remote work, you may be able to live abroad for part of the year without formally emigrating. This lets you experience life in your chosen country without cutting ties to the UK entirely.
Some families move one household member ahead, particularly if a job offer is involved, while the rest of the family follows once schools and housing are confirmed. Giant Van can handle phased moves as well as single full relocations.
If your ultimate destination has a longer visa process, some movers stage in a country with easier entry requirements while they finalise their application. For example, moving to Ireland first while a Canadian residency application is processed.
Before selling your UK property, it may be worth renting it out while you test life abroad. This preserves your option to return if the move does not suit you as expected.
Call us on to talk through your options with our experienced team.
Safest Countries Compared: Key Facts for UK Movers
7 Tips
Here is a practical comparison of the top destinations for UK nationals.
Population of 370,000. Stunning natural scenery. Cold winters with long dark periods. No language barrier for English speakers in most settings. High cost of living. No visa required for UK nationals to visit; residency requires employment or study.
English-speaking. Strong outdoor culture. Eight to ten weeks' travel from the UK by sea. Residency through skilled migrant categories or family reunion. Healthcare is good but less comprehensive than NHS equivalents in Scandinavia.
Four official languages (German, French, Italian, Romansh). High salaries matched by high living costs. Non-EU status means UK nationals need a permit to work and reside. Excellent public transport and outdoor lifestyle.
Welfare state among the most generous in the world. Danish language is required for permanent residency. Very family-friendly. EU member, but UK nationals now require permits.
UK nationals retain the right to live and work freely. English-speaking. Familiar culture. Growing tech economy. Property prices in Dublin are high; regional areas are more affordable.
Business-friendly. Very low crime. Tropical climate. English is an official language. Work visa required for most UK nationals. High cost of living, particularly for housing.
Moving to the safest country to live in is a major life decision, but it does not have to be overwhelming.
With the right removal company, clear planning, and an understanding of what to expect, thousands of UK families make successful international moves every year.
Giant Van provides professional, transparent, and carefully managed removal services to every major safe-country destination, from Iceland and New Zealand to Switzerland and Singapore.
Ready to take the next step?
Call Giant Van today on 020 3129 6180 for a free, no-obligation quote.
Our team will assess your requirements, explain your options, and give you a clear written price for your international move.
If you are moving in three months or planning ahead for next year, the earlier you start, the smoother your relocation will be.
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- Live GPS tracking on every move
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- Manage bookings on the go
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Your Complete Moving Guide — FAQs
What is the safest country to live in for UK expats?
Iceland ranks as the safest country to live in globally, according to the Global Peace Index. For UK expats specifically, Ireland offers a practical combination of safety, English language, and the right to live and work freely under the Common Travel Area. New Zealand, Switzerland, and Denmark are also highly popular choices for British nationals seeking safe, stable environments.
How much does it cost to move internationally with Giant Van?
International removal costs with Giant Van typically range from £1,500 for shorter European moves up to £12,000 or more for long-haul destinations such as New Zealand or Australia. The final price depends on your volume of goods, chosen destination, and service level. Call for a free, no-obligation written quote tailored to your move.
Do I need a visa to move to the safest countries in the world?
Yes, most of the world's safest countries require UK nationals to apply for residency or a work permit to live there permanently. Ireland is the main exception, where UK nationals can live and work freely. Iceland, Switzerland, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, and Denmark all have their own residency application processes, which can take several months to complete.
How long does an international removal take?
Transit times vary by destination and shipping method. European moves by road typically take three to ten days. Moves to Canada or the USA take six to ten weeks by sea freight. New Zealand and Australia are eight to twelve weeks. Singapore and Japan are five to eight weeks. Air freight is faster for all destinations but costs significantly more than sea freight for a full household.
Can Giant Van handle customs paperwork for international moves?
Yes. Giant Van prepares and manages the customs documentation required for your destination country. This includes packing lists, inventory declarations, and any country-specific import forms. You will need to provide personal documents such as your passport and visa, which we will guide you through. Our team keeps up to date with current regulations, including post-Brexit requirements for EU destinations.
Is my furniture insured during an international removal?
Transit insurance is available with every Giant Van international move. We offer cover from the point of collection at your UK home through to delivery at your new address abroad. Full replacement value policies are available. We strongly recommend taking out transit insurance for all international moves, as standard home insurance policies rarely cover goods in transit over long distances or across borders.
What items cannot be shipped internationally?
Prohibited items vary by destination country. Common restrictions include certain foods, plants and seeds, outdoor equipment with soil residue (particularly for New Zealand and Australia), firearms, and hazardous materials. Giant Van will advise you on the specific restrictions that apply to your destination during your pre-move consultation. Restricted items must be left behind or disposed of before shipping to avoid customs seizure and fines.
How far in advance should I book an international removal?
We recommend booking your international removal at least eight to twelve weeks before your planned collection date. For moves during the summer peak period (June to September), booking three to four months ahead is advisable to secure your preferred dates. Earlier booking also gives you more time to manage visa applications, property transactions, and school enrolment in your destination country without unnecessary pressure.
Reviewed by Mubashir Gulab, COO & Co-founder at Giant Van — Your Complete Moving Guide operations
Last updated: June 2026Verified pricing
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