At Get Cracking Removals we have the local knowledge and industry experience to handle all of your relocation requirements, wherever in Germany you choose to move to or from. With years of experience, a customised vehicle fleet and frequent services, you can be sure you’re in the most capable hands for reliable removals to Germany and from Germany to Ireland.
Whether you’re moving from Dublin to Dusseldorf, or Kerry countryside to Bavaria our highly trained removals team are equipped to deliver from Ireland to any German city or town.
Let’s Get Cracking now and help you move with the best removal company to Germany!
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Our depot in Dublin 11, Ireland offers a fully containerised storage facility in a modern and secure warehouse. If you decide to store your goods in Ireland, you will need to factor in the time for shipping transit during your removal to Germany. Sometimes storage in Ireland is the only option as you may be unsure of your final destination in Germany.
We can store your goods in Ireland until your decision regarding your final destination is made; this can reduce unnecessary shipping costs. If required we can provide storage for your goods at our partner’s storage facilities in Germany and throughout Europe. Let us know what international storage solution is required and we will assist.
Get Cracking are proud members of:
- IAM (International Association of Movers), the world’s largest trade association for the global moving industry
- BAR (Association of British Removers)
It is very important to consider the protection of your goods during relocation to Germany, as there is always an element of risk in moving. Peace of mind is paramount; thankfully, as well as facilitating cheap removals to Germany, Get Cracking Ltd offer an international removals insurance to ensure your personal possessions are well covered should the unlikely happen.
Need help with bringing your little loved ones to Germany. He can help and make sure they travel as safely as possible. There are strict rules in place when it comes to moving pets to Germany. Though pets are welcome for free on most public transport, you will need to inform the airline before flying with them. For further details please check the FAQs section in the bottom of this page.
If you require currency exchange, we will introduce you to FC Exchange, one of Europe’s leading Foreign exchange companies, to arrange the transferring of your funds to UK/Europe. FC Exchange offers international money transfers that are safe, fast and can save you money. For more information on how to save money please follow the link below.
How much it will cost me to move to Germany?
The cost of removals to Germany will depend on the collection and delivery location, ease of access, volume of goods to be transported, time of year, way of transport etc. You can use our online volume calculator to determine an approximate volume. We can also provide an obligation-free in-home inspection or fill out the quote form on this page.
What is the volume of my goods?
When moving abroad, one of the most important pieces of information required in order to provide you with an accurate relocation quote is the volume of your shipment/goods. In other words, the volume (number of cubic metres/feet) you would like to move determines the size of the container or truck it requires and of course the costs. Please use the volume calculator to calculate the volume of your goods to be transported to Germany. You can contact our team today for an obligation-free in-home inspection.
What if I do not have an address yet in Germany?
We can store your goods from €17 + VAT per week at our warehouse in Dublin 11. When you secure a new address in Germany, please update us and we will schedule the shipment/transport of your belongings.
Can you deliver packing supplies before the move?
Yes, we will deliver all necessary packing materials, such as moving boxes, wardrobe boxes, labels, bubble wrap etc. to your door from a few days to few weeks prior to the move, giving you plenty of time to pack your goods and prepare for the move.
Can I pack my own things?
Yes you can, as long as they are packed securely in quality packing cartons. We would prefer to pack your fragile items, such as TVs, musical instruments, bicycles etc. Whilst you can save money, it is important to know that owner packed goods are not covered/insured by our International Inland Insurer (if you decide to opt for one).
Do I have to be present at my house during packing?
This is not mandatory and sometimes not always possible but we recommend that you are present to ensure that the correct goods are being packed and moved.
When do I pay?
All charges are paid prior to moving with the exception of storage charges which are billed monthly.
Packing Tips and Tricks for your Removal To Germany
It is incredibly important to ensure your goods are safe and secure when being moved from one location to another, whether you’re moving overseas or not. It’s also advised that you start packing as early as possible as the process often takes longer than expected.
Starting at the Top & Work Your Way Down
Starting at the top of the house and working your way downwards is a wise move, as is packing any items in small boxes to make transportation easier. You should try and minimise the weight of individual boxes as much as you possibly can and concentrate on packing 1 room at a time before moving your belongings to Germany.
Label Boxes & Secure Fragile Items
Make sure you label each box with what it contains and which room it is for. Any boxes that contain fragile items should be labelled appropriately. Heavier items should be placed towards the bottom of the box with lighter goods on top. Bubble wrap can be worth its weight in gold when it comes to protecting breakables, whilst blankets and pillows can also defend furniture from damage. All important documents should be kept in a safe place.
Choosing the right company for you
The process of moving everything you own to another country can be overwhelming, so it’s vital to choose the best international movers to help you relocate. Although there are many international movers that can handle your move, choosing the wrong one can make the process more arduous than it needs to be.
Reputation Matters
Look into companies online reviews. Online review sites are a good resources for learning more about other customers’ experiences with these movers. These resources can help you make a more informed decision.
Get a Head Start
Moving internationally is much more complicated than moving domestically for a number of reasons. In addition to customs and lots of paperwork, you’ll need to arrange for shipment of all of your belongings by air, sea or road. Making those arrangements is a long process, so it’s a good idea to get started planning your move as soon as possible. Don’t make the mistake of assuming you can wait until a few weeks before the big day to choose a moving company.
Look for Specific Experience
Lots of moving companies will say they can arrange for an international move, but unless they have a lot of experience in that area, you’re taking a big risk. Make sure that the moving company you choose has a lot of experience in coordinating and executing international moves.
Insist on Customs Expertise
When hiring an international mover, make sure it is familiar with the customs formalities and regulations for the country of your destination.
Get at Least Three Estimates
Going with the first international moving company you find might lead to a good experience. Though unless you compare that company against a few others, you’ll never be sure. Get at least three on-site estimates from reputable international moving companies before making your final decision.
Moving your business or home to another country may be one of the biggest changes you’ll ever make in your life. Understandably, you want to be sure that such a change happens as smoothly as possible. An experienced international moving company can take much of the anxiety out of the moving process, but only if you choose the right one.
Importing Motor Vehicles to Germany
If your stay in the country is temporary, you will be able to drive it in Germany for a maximum of 6 months with your home licence plates and registration. However, it is advisable to source a German version of the registration documentation. Most cars or other motor vehicles imported to Germany from outside the EU will be subject to a 10% import duty and a 19% import value-added tax.
Car Taxes & Registration Will Need to be Organised
You will need to organise car taxes and registration if you are staying in Germany for more than 6 months. The Zollamt (customs office) can help you with this. People heading to Germany to study will not need to register or pay car tax.
Importing Vehicles Can Cost Between €26 – €58
Registration after importing a car to Germany normally costs between €26 – €58. The amount of tax you will need to pay will depend on the size or age of your vehicle. The cash is to the Customs Office on an annual basis.
Contact Your Local Customs Office
You need to contact the Customs Office to find out exactly what documentation you will need, but this will often include a photo ID, your residence registration papers, proof of ownership and proof that your car is roadworthy if it is more than 3 years old.
Proof of Insurance & Receipt of Purchase
You will also need proof of insurance and a receipt from when you purchased the vehicle and a European Certificate of Conformity when importing a car to Germany.
Shipping Your Pets to Germany
There are strict rules in place when it comes to moving pets to Germany. Though pets are welcome for free on most public transport, you will need to inform the airline before flying with them.
Ventilated Container with a Waterproof Bottom
You will usually require a ventilated travelling container with a waterproof bottom that enables your pets to move and lie down. Make sure you label the container correctly so they don’t get lost and ensure they have enough food and water. It’s wise to read the International Air Transport Association (IATA) rules before travelling by air with your pet.
Small Pets Sometimes Travel in Passenger Cabins
For small pets, you may be able to take your pet in the passenger cabin, though the container will usually have to fit under the seat in front of you. Though your pet will likely be ‘live cargo’ in the cargo hold for transport.
Your Pet Must be Vaccinated Before Leaving Ireland
German pet import doesn’t have to be complex, but you must complete all the relevant paperwork in advance or your pet could be quarantined. Make sure your pet is vaccinated for rabies before you leave Ireland. The authorities will require evidence that a vaccination took place at least 21 days before the journey. Cats and dogs need to be at least 15 weeks old before they can enter the country and they will need a microchip that identifies them.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers & Pit Bull’s are Banned
Some dog breeds and crossbreeds are banned for import, including so-called ‘fighting’ or ‘dangerous’ breeds such as Staffordshire bull terriers and pit bull terriers. Whether you’re moving dogs to Germany or transporting any other kind of pet, it’s vital that you read up on what is expected of you before your journey.
Types of Residence Permits in Germany
You will not require a German Residence Permit if you are from Ireland or an EU country . Those entering the country from outside of the EU will require a permit if they plan on staying longer than 90 days, including British citizens. Below are the types of residence permit available:
Temporary Residence Permit
This permit is designed for short stays of up to a year and specifies which activities you are permitted to engage in, which can include work or study.
EU Blue Cards
EU Blue Cards are designed for foreign nationals from non-EU countries who have valuable skills in fields, such as science and technology, and wish to work in Germany.
Permanent Residence Permit
The Permanent Residence Permit is for those who wish to stay in the country permanently and travel in and out of it as often as they like. These permits are mainly given to those who have EU Blue Cards or have held temporary permits for several years. People with permanent residence permits can stay in Germany with their spouses and children.
German Visas
If you are an Irish, EU or EEA citizen, you won’t need a German visa or a residence permit to live, work or study in Germany. However, you will still need to register at the resident’s registration office within 3 months of the move and you will need to take your passport and proof of residency with you.
Those that do not have EU/EEA citizenship but are closely related to someone in the country that does, can apply for a German visa. If you are not from the EU or EEA and are staying for more than 90 days, you will either need a visa or a residence permit depending on which country you are from. As the UK has officially left the EU, most British citizens will now require a visa or permit when moving to Germany.
There are several different types of visas available – which kind of German visa application you need will depend on the nature of your visit. Common German visa types include:
- Working Visa
- Studying and Language Learning Visa
- Germany Schengen Visa
- Job Seeker Visa.
Bank Accounts, Utilities, Mail and Subscriptions
EU nationals shouldn’t face any difficulties with opening a bank account in Germany, but if you’re a non-EU national moving to the country, you will need to show a German work permit and prove your registration.
Detailed Financial History & Employment Contracts
You have a better chance of getting a German bank account if you have a detailed financial history and an employment contract. You will typically be required to open your account in person at the branch or a post office if you’re opening an account with an online-only German bank.
Mail can be Forwarded for up to a Year
Mail sent to your old Irish address can be forwarded to any German address for up to a year but you will need to pay a modest fee to Irish Post.
Set up Utilities a Few Weeks Before the Move
You also need to set up your utilities a few weeks before the big move. Your new home will normally be connected to gas, water and electricity providers so the process should be as straightforward as it would be in the UK.
You will not require a German Residence Permit if you are from Ireland or an EU country . Those entering the country from outside of the EU will require a permit if they plan on staying longer than 90 days, including British citizens. Below are the types of residence permit available:
- Temporary Residence Permit
This permit is designed for short stays of up to a year and specifies which activities you are permitted to engage in, which can include work or study. - EU Blue Cards
EU Blue Cards are designed for foreign nationals from non-EU countries who have valuable skills in fields, such as science and technology, and wish to work in Germany. - Permanent Residence Permit
The Permanent Residence Permit is for those who wish to stay in the country permanently and travel in and out of it as often as they like. These permits are mainly given to those who have EU Blue Cards or have held temporary permits for several years. People with permanent residence permits can stay in Germany with their spouses and children.
If you are an Irish, EU or EEA citizen, you won’t need a German visa or a residence permit to live, work or study in Germany. However, you will still need to register at the resident’s registration office within 3 months of the move and you will need to take your passport and proof of residency with you.
Those that do not have EU/EEA citizenship but are closely related to someone in the country that does, can apply for a German visa. If you are not from the EU or EEA and are staying for more than 90 days, you will either need a visa or a residence permit depending on which country you are from. As the UK has officially left the EU, most British citizens will now require a visa or permit when moving to Germany.
There are several different types of visas available – which kind of German visa application you need will depend on the nature of your visit.
Common German visa types include:
- Working Visa
- Studying and Language Learning Visa
- Germany Schengen Visa
- Job Seeker Visa.
Bank Accounts, Utilities, Mail and Subscriptions
EU nationals shouldn’t face any difficulties with opening a bank account in Germany, but if you’re a non-EU national moving to the country, you will need to show a German work permit and prove your registration.
Detailed Financial History & Employment Contracts
You have a better chance of getting a German bank account if you have a detailed financial history and an employment contract. You will typically be required to open your account in person at the branch or a post office if you’re opening an account with an online-only German bank.
Mail can be Forwarded for up to a Year
Mail sent to your old Irish address can be forwarded to any German address for up to a year but you will need to pay a modest fee to Irish Post.
Set up Utilities a Few Weeks Before the Move
You also need to set up your utilities a few weeks before the big move. Your new home will normally be connected to gas, water and electricity providers so the process should be as straightforward as it would be in the UK.