Shipping and Removals in Barcelona
As a major shipping port, it’s easier and cheaper for expats to ship to Barcelona than to an inland destination.
Expats can import their household goods duty-free, but this action requires that you have the proper paperwork (visa, Empadronamiento, inventories, etc.) in order. Otherwise, expats are liable to a 16 percent tax on shipped goods.
That said, expats should think carefully about the items they’re planning to bring abroad; best practice seems to be ‘if you don’t need it leave it’. Barcelona claims plenty of furnished accommodation options and an impressive assortment of home furnishing stores for those expats who don’t feel like bubble-wrapping and boxing their valuables.
If you do decide to ship items to Barcelona, it’s best to engage the services of a reputable, international shipping provider. Furthermore, do be sure to take out shipping insurance with a separate company to protect against breakage or mishaps.
Shipping pets to Barcelona
Pets shipped to Barcelona must comply with Spanish custom laws. Animals must be microchipped and must be accompanied by official veterinary certificates. Tattoos are no longer accepted in the EU.
Those expats bringing pets from another EU country into Spain must have an EU Pet Passport, a booklet which is issued by a licensed veterinarian if your pet has proper identification and has up to date vaccines and blood tests.
For those expats from outside the EU, you’ll also need an APHIS form 7001, an International Health Certificate. The form must be signed within 10 days of your arrival in Barcelona, so do be sure you take your furry friend for their check-up within the appropriate timeframe.
Barcelona has stricter rules than the USregarding ownership of pets.
