Moving to Scandinavia is an exciting opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful and well-organized countries in the world. Known for their high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and efficient public services, the Scandinavian countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland—are popular destinations for expats. However, moving internationally requires careful planning and preparation. This guide will walk you through the process of moving to Scandinavia, including customs requirements, transportation, and useful information about each country.
The Process of Moving to Scandinavia
1. Planning Your Move
- Research Your Destination: Scandinavia includes Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. Each country has its own unique culture, language, and regulations, so research your chosen destination thoroughly.
- Timeline: Start planning at least 3-4 months in advance. This will give you enough time to organize your belongings, hire a removal company, and handle paperwork.
- Decluttering: Sort through your belongings and decide what to take, sell, donate, or discard. This will help reduce moving costs.
2. Removals.co.uk – Why choose us
- Remoavls.co.uk are International moving experts with experience in moving hundreds of people to Scandinavia each year. We handle packing, transportation, and customs clearance.
- With our overseas moving services we can insurance your belongings during transit.
3. Packing and Transportation
- Packing: We use high-quality packing materials to protect your belongings during transit. Label boxes clearly to make unpacking easier.
- Transport Options: Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose between road transport (for mainland Scandinavia), air freight (for urgent items), or sea freight (for larger shipments).
4. Customs and Documentation
- Customs Declaration: Removals.co.uk will typically handle customs declarations, but you’ll need to provide necessary documents, such as your passport, proof of address, and an inventory of goods.
- Import Regulations: Check the specific customs regulations for your destination country. Most household goods can be imported duty-free if they have been used for at least 6 months, but every client is different and we will be able to provide expert guidance for your move.
Ten Largest Cities in Scandinavia
Scandinavia is home to vibrant cities that combine modernity with rich history. Here are the ten largest cities by population:
Denmark
- Copenhagen – The capital city, known for its canals, cycling culture, and historic landmarks.
- Aarhus – A cultural hub with a thriving arts scene.
Norway
- Oslo – The capital, famous for its museums, parks, and fjord views.
- Bergen – A picturesque city surrounded by mountains and fjords.
Sweden
- Stockholm – The capital, spread across 14 islands, known for its stunning architecture and waterways.
- Gothenburg – A major port city with a lively cultural scene.
- Malmö – Located near the Øresund Bridge, connecting Sweden to Denmark.
Finland
- Helsinki – The capital, known for its design, architecture, and coastal location.
- Espoo – A neighboring city to Helsinki, part of the Greater Helsinki area.
Iceland
- Reykjavik – The capital and largest city, known for its geothermal pools and vibrant arts scene.
Government Transport and Customs Websites
Here are the official government websites for transport and customs in each Scandinavian country:
Denmark
- Transport: Ministry of Transport
- Customs: Danish Customs
Norway
- Transport: Norwegian Public Roads Administration
- Customs: Norwegian Customs
Sweden
- Transport: Swedish Transport Administration
- Customs: Swedish Customs
Finland
- Transport: Finnish Transport and Communications Agency
- Customs: Finnish Customs
Iceland
- Transport: Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration
- Customs: Icelandic Customs
Useful Information About Each Country
Denmark
- Language: Danish
- Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
- Highlights: Cycling culture, hygge (coziness), and historic castles.
Norway
- Language: Norwegian
- Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
- Highlights: Fjords, Northern Lights, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
Sweden
- Language: Swedish
- Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)
- Highlights: Archipelagos, design, and a strong focus on sustainability.
Finland
- Language: Finnish and Swedish
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Highlights: Saunas, lakes, and the home of Santa Claus in Lapland.
Iceland
- Language: Icelandic
- Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
- Highlights: Geothermal pools, volcanoes, and stunning natural landscapes.
Final Tips for a Smooth Move
- Learn the Language: While English is widely spoken, learning the local language will help you integrate more easily.
- Understand the Cost of Living: Scandinavia is known for its high cost of living, so budget accordingly.
- Prepare for the Climate: Winters can be harsh, especially in Norway, Sweden, and Finland, so invest in warm clothing.
- Register Your Move: Notify authorities in your home country and register with local authorities in your new country.
Moving to Scandinavia is a life-changing experience that offers a high quality of life, stunning natural beauty, and a welcoming culture. By understanding the logistics, customs requirements, and unique aspects of each country, you can ensure a smooth and successful move.
For professional assistance with your move, visit Removals.co.uk to get a quote and expert advice tailored to your Overseas removal needs.
Good luck with your move to Scandinavia!
Removals.co.uk – International Movers & Packers
