Moving to France is an exciting adventure, whether you’re drawn to the allure of Paris, the superior healthcare benefits, abundant career opportunities, or simply seeking a fresh start. For over 40 years, we’ve facilitated seamless relocations to France for American expats, ensuring every step of the process is simple and straightforward.
Why Move to France?
France offers a high quality of life, excellent public services, and a rich cultural heritage. Here are some reasons many consider relocating:
- Healthcare Benefits: France boasts one of the best healthcare systems in the world.
- Career Opportunities: France’s diverse economy offers numerous job opportunities, particularly in sectors like technology, engineering, and arts.
- Cultural Experience: From world-renowned cuisine to historical landmarks, France offers a vibrant cultural life.
- Education: Excellent educational institutions for children and adults alike.
- Lifestyle: Enjoy a slower pace of life, picturesque landscapes, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
How to Move to France from the USA
1. Make sure you have the proper Visa.
For most people moving to France you need a Long-Stay Visa (Visa de long séjour) this is for stays over 90 days.
These are the most common types of Long-Stay Visas:
- Work Visa: For employment purposes.
- Student Visa: For studying in France.
- Family Visa: For joining a family member who is a French resident or citizen.
- Visitor Visa: For those who can support themselves without working (e.g., retirees).
Visit the French Embassy website for the most up-to-date information on Visa requirements.
2. Secure Housing
One of the most effective ways to find housing in France is to use online real estate platforms. These platforms allow you to search for properties, view photos, and contact landlords or real estate agents.
- SeLoger: One of France’s largest real estate websites, offering a wide range of rental properties.
- Real Estate Agencies: Hiring a real estate agency like Century 21 France can simplify the process, especially if you are not fluent in French or familiar with the local market.
Research is vital when looking for housing. Always work with reputable companies and have everything in writing to avoid scams.
3. Determine What Household Goods to Ship
Start by deciding what household items and furniture you want to take with you. Use our volume calculator to get an accurate estimate of the size of your move, which will influence packing, inventory, and cost. Moving to France from the USA involves careful planning, so knowing how much you intend to ship is crucial.
4. Select Your Moving Service
Choose a service that suits your needs. Most clients opt for our door-to-door service, where we handle everything from pickup in the US to delivery in France.
5. Get a Quote
Request a personalized moving quote based on your specific requirements by filling out our Online Quote Form.
Reasons to Move to France With Schumacher:
- Over 40 years of experience: Expertise in international relocations.
- Door-to-door service: Convenience and peace of mind.
- Flexible container options: Partial and full container solutions.
- Accreditations: AMSA, IAM, FIDI & FAIM.
- Budget-friendly options: Tailored to meet different financial needs.
- Secure storage: Indoor storage in company-owned warehouses.
How Much Does it Cost to Move to France?
The cost of moving to France from the USA varies based on factors such as the volume of goods, origin, destination, and chosen services. For example, moving from LA to France will cost differently than moving from NY. Our representatives provide custom quotes for all inquiries.
Fill out our Online Quote Form to get a customized quote.
Shipping Furniture to France
Shipping furniture to France requires careful consideration of your specific needs. We offer flexible container services to accommodate different volumes:
- Shared Container Moves: Pay only for the actual volume of household goods or furniture you are transporting.
- Individual Shipments: Flat rates for filling either a 20ft or 40ft container.
- Vehicle Transport: Ship your car along with your household items.
Major Ports:
- Le Havre
- Marseille
Regular departures ensure timely deliveries to your new home.
Shipping Household Goods to France
Our process is streamlined into two parts: export and import.
Export Process:
- Documentation: Sign initial paperwork, including customs forms and an itemized list of goods.
- Packing and Loading: Our team handles packing and loading at your US residence.
Import Process:
- Customs Clearance: We manage customs clearance in France.
- Delivery: Goods are delivered to your new French home.
Importing Goods to France
Generally, used personal belongings can be imported duty-free if they meet specific criteria. To avoid customs duties, ensure your goods are not new and are for personal use.
Customs Tips:
- Documentation: Prepare an itemized list of goods.
- Regulations: Check with the French embassy for specific rules.
Major Destinations in France
We provide door-to-door services to all French cities and towns, including:
- Bordeaux
- Lyon
- Nice
- Le Havre
- Paris
- Toulouse
How Long Does Moving to France from the USA Take?
The time it takes to ship household goods to France from the USA depends on factors like service type, departure location, and final destination. Typically, sea transit times are:
- West Coast to France: 3-4 weeks
- East Coast to France: 15 days
This does not include total move time, which also involves packing, loading, and customs clearance.
FAQ: Moving to France from the USA
1. What documents do I need to move my belongings to France?
To move your belongings to France, you will need a copy of your passport, proof of your visa or residency permit (if applicable), and a detailed inventory of the items you’re shipping. For just the shipment, a copy of your passport and an itemized packing list will suffice. Our team will assist you in gathering and preparing all the required documentation.
2. Can I bring my pets to France?
Yes, pets can be brought to France, but they must meet specific health and vaccination requirements.
3. Are there items that cannot be shipped to France?
Yes, French customs restrict the import of certain items, such as firearms, hazardous chemicals, perishable food, and specific plants or seeds. We will provide you with a comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted items, helping you avoid any customs issues during your move.
4. How will my belongings be protected during transit?
We handle your shipment with the utmost care and offer various insurance options for added peace of mind. The coverage can be tailored to the value of your items, and our specialists will help you choose the best protection plan for your move to France.
5. Is it possible to track my shipment to France?
Yes, we provide tracking services for all shipments. Once your belongings are on their way to France, you will be able to monitor their progress and receive regular updates until they arrive at your destination.
6. Do you provide packing services for moves to France?
Absolutely. We offer professional packing services to ensure your belongings are properly secured for the long journey to France. Our expert packers use high-quality materials and methods to safeguard your items, including wrapping and crating when necessary, so everything arrives in excellent condition.
7. What happens when my belongings arrive in France?
Upon arrival, your shipment will go through customs clearance in France. After customs have been cleared, our local partners will take over to ensure your belongings are delivered safely to your new home. We manage the entire process and keep you updated at every stage.
8. Can you help with customs clearance in France?
Yes, we handle customs clearance for you, ensuring that all paperwork is complete and the process goes as smoothly as possible. Our goal is to avoid any delays or complications when your belongings arrive in France.
When should I start planning my move to France?
We recommend starting the planning process at least 4-6 weeks in advance to ensure that everything goes smoothly and to secure availability. However, if you need to arrange a move on short notice, we may also be able to assist depending on our schedule.
9. Do I need to pay import duties or taxes on my belongings?
If you are moving to France permanently, you may be eligible for duty-free import of your household goods, provided they have been in your possession for at least six months. However, you will need to provide proof of residency and sign a declaration confirming that the items are for personal use and not resale. We can guide you through this process to help minimize any fees.
10. Will my electronics and appliances work in France?
France uses a 230-volt electrical system with Type C and E plugs. Most electronics from the U.S. operate at 110 volts, so you may need transformers or adapters for your devices. For appliances like washers or refrigerators, it’s often more practical to buy new ones locally rather than converting them.
11. What are the best options for transporting my personal items within France once they arrive?
Once your items arrive in France, we work with local partners to arrange delivery to your final destination. Depending on your location and needs, we can provide door-to-door delivery or arrange a convenient pickup option for your belongings.
More on Moving to France Resources
- International Container Shipping to France
- Shipping a Car to France
- Pros and Cons of Living in France
- Top 10 Things to Know When Moving to France
For any other info on moving to France, call one of our representatives at :
US 562-408-6677 // Toll Free 800-599-0190
Trust our expertise for a smooth move to France. Start your journey by filling out our Online Quote Form today, and take the first step towards your new life in France.
SCL Ratings for France Moving
