Moving to The Canary Islands

Located just off the north-west coast of mainland Africa, with a subtropical climate, long warm summers and warm winters, the Canary Islands are a great choice - Let Appleyards take the stress out of moving and you can sit back and relax while we take care of your move.

Although Part of Spain, the Canaries still remain exempt from VAT.

Importing Household Effects to the Canary Islands

Both groupage shipments and full containers can be shipped to the Canary Islands. Duty free entry of Household furniture and effects can be obtained so long as you have used and owned the goods prior to shipment.  Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote on the East side and Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera on the west, Appleyards of Hull can arrange your shipment door to door with expertise and the knowledge to assist you from start to finish 

Restricted and Prohibited Items for the Canary Islands

It is recommended that you do not ship firearms, ammunition, inflammable goods and substances, plants and plant material.

We also recommend you do not include foodstuffs, perishables or material likely to cause offence

Transit Times for the Canaries   

Groupage or shared load consignments usually take 7 to 9 door to door 
Sole use containers usually take 4 – 6 weeks.

Please note the above are estimated times only and timings are dependent on such factors as bad weather, port congestion and volumes to be shipped

Customs Clearance in the Canary Islands

There are no customs formalities on arrival, although a valid passport is required

The most important document you will need is your NIE (National Identification Certificate) This is issued by the police department and is an ID number.

You will also need to have a ‘Certificate of Empardonameiento (proof of address issued by the Town Hall)

Our agents in the canaries will need you sign an authorisation form,  and whilst you do not have to attend personally, the document will be sent to you for your original signature prior to the arrival of the ship and to ensure all the correct documentation is in place.

Destination Services in Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & La Palma

Once the goods have been custom cleared, delivery can be arranged to your residence.  Our agents will contact you to organise a date for the delivery of your goods. 

If the goods have been professionally packed here in the UK then our team overseas will unwrap and unpack at your new home.

You may choose to unpack the goods yourself, but please note this may impact on your insurance cover.

Top Tip When Moving To the Canary Islands

When applying to the Town Hall for the Certificate of Empardonameiento, it helps to take with you a copy of your birth certificate, certificate of marriage, divorce papers if applicable, and your passport to show a recent photograph.  If you intend to work then an offer of employment can be presented.  This will save you time and further journeys to ensure all is in place prior to the certificate being granted.

Appleyards Canary Island Help Station

Further information can be obtained by calling Karen on 01482 330780 or via email to karen@removalshull.com