9 Top Tips to Help Choose a Removals Company in Guernsey
Looking for a removals company in Guernsey?
Moving to Guernsey isn’t just about changing address, it’s about embracing a slower pace of life with all the rewards of island living.
With over 20 sandy beaches, a charming capital in St Peter Port, and a close-knit community spirit, Guernsey blends natural beauty with modern convenience.
Families will appreciate the excellent schools and low crime rates, while professionals are drawn to the island’s thriving finance industry and strong entrepreneurial scene.
Add in good healthcare, attractive tax incentives, and easy ferry or flight links to the UK and France, and it’s easy to see why Guernsey appeals to so many.
But while the island is idyllic, moving here isn’t always a straightforward process.
Choosing the right removals company can make the difference between a stressful ordeal and a smooth transition.
1. Are They Familiar with Guernsey’s Housing and Residency Rules?
Your mover must understand Guernsey’s unique “Open Market” and “Local Market” housing controls to prevent paperwork and residency issues.
Guernsey operates under its own housing market controls, different from those in the UK and even Jersey.
The system of Open Market and Local Market properties can affect where you’re eligible to live.
An experienced removals company will understand how these rules impact new arrivals, especially if you’re relocating from abroad.
They should also be aware of the island’s immigration requirements, managed by the Guernsey Border Agency.
Having a mover who knows the lay of the land means you won’t be left scratching your head over paperwork or eligibility.
It’s worth asking if they’ve guided clients through Guernsey’s unique housing rules before.
White & Company certainly have, with hundreds of successful moves to the island over the years.
2. Do They Know the Challenges of Island Transport?
An experienced company will have contingency plans and strong relationships with ferry operators to manage sea transport, weather, and tidal delays.
Unlike mainland moves, relocating to Guernsey means relying on ferries and often limited freight space.
Weather delays, tidal conditions, and seasonal demand can all affect shipping schedules.
Ask potential movers how they handle these challenges. Do they have strong links with operators like Condor Ferries?
Can they offer alternative routes or rescheduling options if your container is delayed?
A company with genuine island experience will already have contingency plans in place, so your sofa doesn’t end up waiting weeks in a warehouse.
3. What Professional Memberships Do They Hold?
Always choose a mover who is a member of a professional body like the British Association of Removers (BAR) for quality and financial protection.
Peace of mind is priceless when you’re handing over your possessions.
Movers who belong to respected trade associations like the British Association of Removers (BAR), FIDI, or OMNI have been vetted for quality and financial security.
In Guernsey, where word of mouth carries weight, these independent accreditations are an added safeguard.
A professional firm will be proud to share its memberships and codes of practice. If they dodge the question, move on.
If their website does not have the three logos of these industry regulators, they are almost definitely not members.
However, you can check them out yourself, just to be absolutely sure. It is easy to do; simply open the website and run a search using the removal company’s name.
4. Can They Handle Customs Clearance Smoothly?
Every consignment imported into Guernsey from outside the island must pass through customs.
While most household belongings aren’t taxed if they’re for personal use and not brand new, the paperwork still needs to be accurate.
A reliable removals company will prepare the declarations, advise you on restricted goods, and guide you through the registration process for vehicles, pets, or high-value items.
The last thing you want is for your shipment to get held up unnecessarily.
White & Company offer a real advantage here: all Guernsey shipments are channelled through their Portsmouth depot, where customs are handled efficiently before your belongings continue to the company’s St Peter Port branch.
This means the entire process is streamlined, with fewer delays and complete oversight from start to finish.
Having both a mainland hub and a Guernsey depot ensures your move is seamless and far less stressful.
For official importation rules, see the Guernsey Border Agency regulations.
5. Do They Offer Packing and Storage Solutions?
Check for professional packing services suited for sea transit and secure, flexible storage options, which are often essential for island moves.
Packing for an island move is a different ball game. Salt air, rough seas, and extended transit times all put belongings at risk.
Professional movers should offer sturdy cartons, custom crates, and protective wrapping for delicate or bulky items.
Storage is another lifesaver, whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or waiting on completion, having access to good, secure storage facilities can make all the difference.
Many Guernsey relocations involve temporary storage, either on the island or on the mainland, before belongings are delivered.
Ask what’s available and whether it’s secure, insured, and flexible to your schedule.
6. Will Their Quote Be Transparent and All-Inclusive?
Budgeting for a Guernsey move means thinking beyond just the van hire. You’ll need to factor in ferry charges, customs handling, and possible storage.
A professional removals company should provide a clear, written quote covering every part of the process, no vague estimates, and certainly no hidden fees.
Compare at least two or three quotes, but don’t assume the cheapest is best. With moving, value lies in reliability, not cutting corners.
An honest, itemised upfront estimate is a sign of a company that won’t surprise you with last-minute extras.
7. What Do Their Previous Clients Say?
On a close-knit island, reputation is key. Check independent review sites like Trustpilot for honest feedback on the company’s service.
On an island like Guernsey, reputation really matters. Independent review sites, such as Trustpilot or Google Reviews, provide an honest picture of how a company performs in the real world.
White & Company’s Guernsey branch currently holds an impressive 4.7 rating on Trustpilot, which reflects the trust local customers place in their service.
When reading reviews, look for recurring themes: are people praising careful handling of belongings, friendly staff, and punctual delivery?
On a close-knit island, word of mouth is often more valuable than any glossy brochure.
8. Do They Provide Proper Insurance?
Ensure the company provides comprehensive transit insurance that covers the risks of a sea crossing, as your home policy likely won’t.
However careful a mover is, things can go wrong, especially when sea crossings are involved.
Comprehensive insurance cover is essential. Check what’s included in their policy: are breakages, loss, and delays covered?
Don’t assume your home insurance will apply during the transit of your consignment; it usually doesn’t.
A professional company should explain your options clearly and offer top-up cover for valuable items if needed.
Knowing your belongings are protected means everything so that you can breathe easier on moving day.
Ready to Relocate to Guernsey?
Guernsey is a fantastic place to call home, but relocating here presents unique challenges.
By asking these nine questions, you’ll quickly identify which removals companies truly understand the island’s quirks, and which don’t.
Trusted specialists like White & Company have decades of experience handling Guernsey relocations, ensuring every detail is managed.
Whether you’re moving within the island, heading over from the mainland, or planning a fresh start overseas, choosing the right partner will make all the difference.
Take a look at some of the blogs our creative writers have put together for anyone considering a move to Guernsey:
FAQs About Moving and Choosing a Removals Company in Guernsey
Is moving to Guernsey more expensive than a UK move?
Yes, it usually costs more due to shipping, customs, and limited freight space. But using an experienced company helps keep costs predictable.
How long does it take to move to Guernsey from the UK?
Most household moves take 3–7 days, depending on ferry schedules, container space, and weather. Booking your move early in peak summer seasons is highly advisable.
Do I need customs paperwork?
Yes. All goods entering Guernsey require customs forms. Personal items are normally duty-free, but paperwork is still needed.
Can I take my car with me?
Yes, but you must register it locally with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing office. Many removals companies can arrange this as part of your relocation.
Can I drive on the island with my UK driver’s license?
Guernsey runs its own system for driver licensing and vehicle registration. Anyone planning to live on the island for more than a year must exchange their foreign driving licence for a local Guernsey licence.
Is storage available in Guernsey?
Definitely, many removals companies offer storage options both on the island and on the mainland, including White & Company, which is helpful if your move-in dates don’t align.
What’s the best time to move?
Late Spring and summer are easiest thanks to calmer seas. That said, professional movers will handle your relocation year-round.
Why choose White & Company for my Guernsey move?
With decades of island-moving experience, depots in both Portsmouth and St Peter Port, and a 4.7 Trustpilot score for our Guernsey branch, White & Company stand out as a trusted choice for smooth, stress-free relocations.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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