Moving to the UK from Australia? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re moving to the UK from Australia, this guide will walk you through the essentials of relocating your household goods safely and legally. Whether you’re moving to England, immigrating to the United Kingdom for work or study, or returning as a British citizen, understanding the Transfer of Residence (ToR) process is vital. OSS World Wide Movers has helped thousands of Australians navigate international removals to the UK with confidence, offering expert support every step of the way.
Relocating overseas involves more than just packing; it requires preparation, paperwork, and peace of mind. Read on for everything you need to know about moving from Australia to the UK, including customs requirements, restricted items, and how to ensure a smooth border clearance.
Who Can Bring Their Belongings to the UK Duty-Free?
Australians relocating to the UK can apply for Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief, allowing them to import used household and personal belongings without paying duty or VAT, provided they meet key criteria.
Permanent movers, such as new residents, returning British citizens, and visa holders, must have lived outside the UK for at least 12 consecutive months. They must also have owned and used their goods for a minimum of six months before shipping. All items must be for personal use only and cannot be sold or lent within 12 months of arrival.
Special allowances apply for students and diplomats. Students must provide proof of enrolment, while diplomats must obtain Form C426 approval through the UK Foreign Office.
Essential Paperwork You’ll Need With You
To clear customs without delays, you’ll need to gather and submit several documents as part of your ToR1 application and clearance process:
- Completed ToR1 form via UK Government website
- Copy of passport
- Proof of residency abroad for at least 12 months (e.g. rental agreement, utility bills)
- Proof of new UK residence (e.g. tenancy or registration documents)
- Detailed inventory list in English (no vague terms like “miscellaneous”)
- Any relevant visas or work permits
Important
You must receive a Unique Reference Number (URN) from UK Customs before the shipment is cleared. The same URN applies to both air and sea shipments.
Getting Cleared at the Border – What to do Step by Step
Apply for ToR1 online and wait for your Unique Reference Number. Provide this to OSS before leaving Australia.
Your goods must arrive no earlier than 6 months before and no later than 12 months after your ToR approval date.
OSS will lodge your documents with UK Customs for clearance.
Once cleared, your goods will be released for delivery to your UK address.
What Items Are Restricted or Banned When Moving to the UK?
The UK has strict import rules. Here’s what to look out for when moving to the United Kingdom
| Item | Rules | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Must be declared separately; taxed at high rates | Often cheaper to purchase in the UK |
| Motor Vehicles | Must be owned & used for 6+ months abroad | Must not be sold or disposed of for 12 months post-import |
| Pets (dogs & cats) | Must be microchipped and vaccinated for rabies | No quarantine from approved countries; an import permit is required from others |
| Firearms | Import licence required | Declared separately and may be held by the authorities |
| Food | Strictly no meat, fish, dairy or perishables | May trigger Port Health Inspection if included |
| Absolutely Prohibited | Includes illegal drugs, obscene material, ivory, reptile skins, endangered species, and rough diamonds |
Will be confiscated and may incur penalties/fines
|
Fees You Might Still Pay After Importing Your Goods to the UK
New items (used for less than 6 months) are subject to duty and 20% VAT
Alcohol and tobacco are always taxed regardless of use
Vehicles not meeting ToR conditions may attract Vehicle Registration Tax and VAT
Port Health Inspections may incur additional costs if food or organic matter is present
Pre-Move Checklist for People Moving from Australia to The UK
Before moving from Australia to the UK, ensure you’ve ticked off all the critical steps
Book OSS World Wide Movers 4-8 weeks in advance. This ensures there’s plenty of time to prep.
Complete your ToR1 application and receive your URN
Book international moving insurance through OSS. Click here to contact OSS about insurance.
Clean all outdoor items thoroughly. Bicycles, gardening tools and BBQs are common red flags at customs
Arrange a UK delivery address. It can be residential, hotel or storage
Check all goods for prohibited or restricted items
Make The Move To The UK From Australia With OSS
Whether you’re moving to England for work, immigrating to the UK with family, or returning home after years abroad, OSS World Wide Movers makes international removals to the UK smooth, secure, and stress-free. With expert packing, customs handling, and delivery across all UK regions, we’re here to help every step of the way.
When you’re moving from Australia to the UK, you need a partner who understands both sides of the process. With OSS, you can relax knowing your belongings are in safe, experienced hands.