Customs rules are still unravelling, post Brexit, but if you are planning on moving to France you should be aware that you may have to pay custom duties and VAT on some items.
French Property website has a good guide for what you need to know.
In essence it differs depending on whether you are moving to a main home or a second home and how long you have held the personal items for. Some highlights to be aware of:
- In principle, personal goods are exempt from tax if moving to a main home
- You must have been living in the UK for the last 12 months and owned the goods for at least 6 months
- Items must be brought over within 12 months of the move date, so you can make multiple trips
- Duty-free limits still apply for things like alcohol and cigarettes
- If moving to a second home customs duties and VAT must be paid on goods being brought permanently to the second home
- You are, however, allowed to bring personal luggage that is exempt from VAT. There is no specific limit but it must be determined that it's not for commercial use
- Plants, meat and milk may be difficult to transport
- Banned, Dangerous and illegal items may also not be transported
Before arranging a move to France, make sure you have checked and understood what the customs rules are for your goods and scenario.