United Kingdom Customs Guide Household Goods, Vehicles, Pets & Restricted Items

Important: This United Kingdom customs guide supports individuals and families relocating to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. The UK applies its own customs rules for household goods, vehicles, pets and restricted items—distinct from the European Union after Brexit.

Home To Home Relocations assists clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to the UK, including export packing, customs documentation, freight coordination, and final delivery to major destinations including London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Liverpool and Bristol.

1. Moving to the United Kingdom – Key Customs Overview

1.1 Duty-Free Import Under ToR1 Relief

The United Kingdom allows the duty-free import of used personal effects when transferring residence, provided importers apply for and receive ToR1 (Transfer of Residence) approval.

1.2 To Qualify for ToR1 Relief

You are moving your normal place of residence to the UK
Goods have been owned and used for at least 6 months
Items are for personal use—not resale
You submit your ToR1 application and receive approval before goods arrive

Important: Shipments arriving without ToR1 approval may be held, taxed or delayed.

1.3 Shipments from EU vs Non-EU Countries

From EU: No customs duty when importing used goods
From non-EU (e.g., Canada): ToR1 application is mandatory for duty-free entry

2. Used Household Goods & Personal Effects

2.1 Required Documentation

Copy of passport
Completed ToR1 Certificate (Transfer of Residence)
Bill of lading / airway bill
Detailed inventory list in English
Proof of UK residence or employment

2.2 Inventory Rules

List all goods clearly—avoid using “miscellaneous”
Declare high-value items separately
Provide receipts where available, especially for electronics
Goods must remain in your possession for at least 12 months after import

H-H Relocations Tip: Submit your ToR1 application before the shipment leaves Canada to avoid unnecessary storage or demurrage charges in the UK.

3. Importing Motor Vehicles to the United Kingdom

3.1 Vehicle Eligibility

Vehicle must have been owned and used abroad for at least 6 months
Vehicle must meet UK technical, emissions and safety standards
Vehicles must be registered with DVLA before road use

3.2 Required Vehicle Documents

Original registration/title
Insurance papers
Bill of lading
ToR1 approval letter (if claiming relief)

Important: Even when ToR1 relief is granted, VAT and duty may apply if the vehicle does not qualify as used personal property.

4. Bringing Pets to the United Kingdom

The UK enforces strict pet import rules under its Pet Travel Scheme (PETS).

4.1 Pet Import Requirements

ISO microchip
Rabies vaccination compliant with UK timelines
Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or EU Pet Passport (if applicable)
Tapeworm treatment for dogs depending on origin

Pet Travel Tip: Pets arriving without correct vaccination timelines may be quarantined. Check rules before shipment for dogs, cats and ferrets.

5. Alcohol, Tobacco, Food & Restricted Goods

5.1 Alcohol

Alcohol can be included in a personal shipment; however, duty and VAT may apply depending on quantity. Commercial amounts are not eligible for ToR1 relief.

5.2 Tobacco

Tobacco imports may incur duty. Quantities must reflect personal consumption and be declared.

5.3 Food & Animal-Origin Products

The UK applies stringent rules under post-Brexit biosecurity controls:

Restricted import of meat, dairy and animal products from non-UK countries
Some food items require certificates or may be refused entry
Plant materials may require phytosanitary certificates

5.4 Medicines, Chemicals & Controlled Items

Prescription medicines allowed with documentation
Hazardous substances and chemicals require permits
Weapons, knives and controlled goods must be declared and may require authorization

Important: Restricted or incorrectly declared items may be seized, destroyed or returned at cost.

6. Prohibited Items – Do Not Ship to the United Kingdom

The UK prohibits import of the following items:

Illegal drugs and narcotics
Weapons, explosives and ammunition without authorization
Counterfeit goods and pirated materials
Obscene or banned publications
Endangered species products without CITES permits
Certain chemicals and hazardous materials

Violations may lead to confiscation, fines or criminal penalties. When unsure, confirm before packing.

7. Practical Tips for International Moves to the United Kingdom

7.1 Moving from Toronto or the GTA

For a successful international move from Toronto to the UK, Home To Home Relocations recommends:

Apply for your ToR1 approval before shipping
Keep passports, employment letters and proof of residence ready
Provide a clear inventory for all household goods
Separate new purchases from used items in your shipment

7.2 Why choose an expert UK relocation partner

The UK customs system relies on correct documentation and compliance with HMRC rules. A professional international moving company provides:

Guidance on ToR1 eligibility and form submission
Door-to-door coordination, including customs clearance
Reduced risk of delays due to customs holds
Experienced agents across major UK ports and cities

Relocation Tip: ToR1 applications can take time to process. Submit early to avoid demurrage, storage charges or customs delays.

8. Useful Official Links – United Kingdom

Always verify latest rules with the UK government:

This guide is provided to assist your relocation process. Final decisions rest with HM Revenue & Customs and other competent UK authorities.