Shipping and Removals in Ireland

You will find plenty of shipping and removal services to Ireland, particularly to Dublin. The large marketplace of competition can often help to lower prices, so make sure to get more than one quote.

Shipping goods to Ireland

When moving to Ireland, you have several shipping and removal options. For larger household moves, sea freight is the most cost-effective, with transit times of 4 to 6 weeks from places like South Africa. If you need smaller shipments or urgent items, air freight delivers in 5 to 10 days but costs more. Full-service removal companies can pack, ship and deliver your belongings directly to your new home. Renting a container is also a good option for larger moves, allowing you to pack and load at your own pace.

The shipping market to Ireland, especially Dublin, is highly competitive. This keeps prices reasonable, but costs can vary based on shipment size and weight, mode of transport, additional services like packing and insurance and the timing of your move. To get the best quote, compare prices from multiple reputable providers.

If you're from a European Union country, you can bring your cargo into Ireland with few restrictions. Your goods must have been owned and used for at least six months before the move and must be for your personal use. 

If you're moving from a non-EU country, you can still import most household goods duty-free, provided they've been owned and used for at least 12 months and you're seeking residence in Ireland. The duty-free period for importing household goods is generally 12 months from the date you establish permanent residency in Ireland. Motor vehicles can also be imported duty-free if they meet specific criteria.

Taking out movers' insurance is highly recommended. This protects against damage, loss or theft during transit. Consider insuring antiques, fine art, electronics and other valuable or fragile items.

Useful links

• Citizens Information: Moving to Ireland

Shipping pets to Ireland

If you're moving to Ireland with your pets, there are specific requirements to follow. First, your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip. Then, vaccinate your pet against rabies after the microchip implantation and wait at least 21 days before travelling. Depending on your country of origin, you'll need an EU pet passport or a health certificate. Dogs also require tapeworm treatment 1 to 5 days before arriving in Ireland unless you travel from Northern Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway.

Pets must enter Ireland through approved ports of entry, and you should arrange for compliance checks in advance. No routine quarantine periods are required for pets from the EU or certain other countries, but compliance checks are necessary. Pets from higher-risk countries may need additional blood tests and checks.

Ensure you have the correct documentation: an EU pet passport or health certificate, microchip details, rabies vaccination certificate and tapeworm treatment proof for dogs. The requirements vary based on your origin, with specific rules for pets from Great Britain and non-EU/GB countries.

The basic requirements apply to cats, dogs and ferrets. Birds, rabbits and rodents have different import rules. Note that certain dog breeds are restricted in Ireland. Besides microchipping and rabies vaccination, additional vaccines like DHLPP for dogs and FVRCP for cats are recommended.

To ensure your pet's comfort and safety, use airline-approved, well-ventilated carriers. Provide water, food and litter if the journey is long. Avoid sedating your pet unless advised by your vet. Attach a label with your contact information to the carrier, and bring a recent photo in case your pet escapes.

Useful links

• Pet Travel: Immigration to Ireland with Pets