Moving to South Africa?
Relocating internationally can be both exciting and daunting, especially when transporting your household belongings. Whether you’re moving to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, or elsewhere, White & Company specialises in removals to South Africa, providing trusted, expert services to ensure your relocation is smooth and stress-free.
Why Choose White & Company for Removals to South Africa?
- Over 150 years of trusted international removals experience
- Full door-to-door service from the UK to anywhere in South Africa
- Proud members of the FIDI & OMNI global relocation networks
- Bespoke moving plans tailored to your timeline and budget
- Skilled teams trained in secure export packing and handling
- Flexible container options (full or part load) to suit your shipment size
- Secure storage solutions available both in the UK and South Africa
- Comprehensive insurance cover for added peace of mind
- Transparent pricing with clear quotes and no hidden extras
- Dedicated move coordinators for personalised support every step of the way
How Our Removals to South Africa from the UK Work
White & Company offers flexible shipping options designed around your timeframe, budget, and shipment size:
Part Load Removals to South Africa
Ideal for smaller moves, our part-load service allows you to share container space, making it cost-effective since you only pay for your actual space used. This option may take slightly longer due to the consolidation process.
Full Load Removals to South Africa
If moving a full household, our exclusive full-load service provides quicker dispatch and greater flexibility. Although typically more expensive, this option is ideal for families or those relocating complete households.
Once packed, your belongings are transported to our UK export facility, securely loaded into your container, and shipped directly to the nearest South African port to your new home.
Moving to South Africa? Get a quick quote
Regular Removals to South Africa
At White & Company, we operate frequent, reliable removal services from the UK to all major regions in South Africa. Whether you’re relocating a full household or sending a smaller shipment, we tailor every move to match your specific needs, offering flexible part-load and full-load solutions.
With over 150 years in the removals industry and a network that spans both countries, we’re equipped to provide a premium, end-to-end service. Our own fleet of purpose-built vehicles and trusted international partners help ensure your belongings are transported safely and efficiently.
Need storage before or after your move? We offer secure, fully containerised storage facilities in both the UK and South Africa. Whether it’s short-term while you wait for your new home to be ready, or long-term storage for surplus items, you can rest assured your possessions are in expert hands.
How Long Does It Take to Move to South Africa?
The time it takes to ship your belongings from the UK to South Africa depends largely on the type of service you choose.
Full-load containers typically arrive in 6 to 8 weeks, offering a faster and more direct route for customers moving an entire household. This option gives you dedicated use of the container, helping to streamline customs clearance and shipping times.
Part-load shipments, where your items share space with others, usually take a bit longer around 6 to 12 weeks as time is needed to consolidate consignments before departure.
What Happens Once My Goods Arrive in South Africa?
Once your shipment reaches South Africa your dedicated move coordinator in the UK will have already sent all required documentation ahead of time, so you’re not left chasing paperwork at the last minute.
As your belongings arrive, you’ll be contacted by our South African partners, who will guide you through the customs clearance process. They’ll provide any remaining forms you need to complete and offer hands-on support with navigating local regulations and requirements.
We understand that settling into a new country can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to dealing with customs. That’s why we ensure our experts are on hand to make this stage of your move as straightforward as possible.
Still have questions? Call our friendly international removals team today on 01489 858941 and let us help you plan your move to South Africa with confidence.
Still Have Questions about Removals to South Africa?
We’re here to help. Call us today on 01489 858941, and speak directly to our friendly international removals specialists who will assist with your questions and planning.

Trusted & Recognised UK Removals Company
White & Company is proud to be a founding member of the British Association of Removers (BAR), a benchmark for excellence within the UK removals industry.
Our membership means we adhere to strict professional standards and codes of practice designed to protect you, the customer. We are constantly evolving by listening to client feedback and improving the service we deliver.
We’re also affiliated with FIDI and OMNI, two of the world’s most respected global relocation networks. These partnerships ensure we maintain the highest international standards, with trusted moving professionals supporting your relocation from start to finish—no matter where in South Africa you’re headed.
Insurance for Removals to South Africa
Although we take every care to protect your belongings, the nature of international transit means that unforeseen events can occasionally occur. That’s why we strongly recommend taking out comprehensive cover for your move.
White & Company now offers MoveProtect, a contractual liability protection designed to give you peace of mind for clients moving valuable household items overseas.
Our professional packing teams reduce the risk of damage in transit, but this cover adds an essential layer of protection should anything go wrong while your items are being shipped or stored.
Repatriating Back Home?
Returning to the UK after living in South Africa? We’re here to help make your homecoming as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At White & Company, we assist many British expats who are relocating back to the UK each year. Our expert team handles every part of your move, including customs clearance, storage, and secure delivery to your new address.
For helpful tips, timelines, and advice, don’t forget to check out our Returning from South Africa Guide, a handy resource that covers everything you need to know about moving back home.
And of course, if you’re planning your return, just give our team a call for personalised assistance with your journey back to the UK.
Preparing for Your Move to South Africa
South Africa is home to more than 200,000 British expatriates, with many settling in major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.
Its natural beauty, warm climate, and lower cost of living make it a top choice for UK residents looking to start a new chapter abroad.
However, moving to South Africa isn’t without challenges. While English is widely spoken, the culture and pace of life can differ significantly from the UK. Safety is often a concern, certain areas may experience higher crime rates, so it’s vital to research locations carefully.
That’s where we come in. At White & Company, our goal is to remove the stress from the process. With expert guidance and careful handling of your belongings so you can concentrate on where you are moving to.
We are here to support you every step of the way as you prepare for life in South Africa.





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Helpful Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
What items cannot be imported into South Africa?
Prohibited items include firearms, un-prescribed drugs, certain plants and seeds, alcohol, pornography, feathers, and animal skins. Consult the FIDI Guide for detailed import regulations.
What is involved in moving from the UK to South Africa?
Securing the correct visa and permits is essential, including temporary residence permits for stays exceeding 90 days.
How long does it take to gain residency in South Africa?
Temporary residence permits last up to three years and are often a precursor to permanent residency, which can take several months to obtain.
Is the cost of living lower in South Africa than the UK?
Yes, significantly so, with everyday costs typically up to 45% cheaper.
Can British nationals retire in South Africa?
Yes. A retirement visa is available for financially self-sufficient individuals, allowing residency without employment requirements.
How long can I stay in South Africa without a visa?
British passport holders can stay visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or short business visits.
How much does it cost to live comfortably in South Africa?
Monthly living costs for a single person range from around R18,000 in Durban to R20,000 in Cape Town, with higher costs for families.
Which are the best cities for expats in South Africa?
Popular cities include Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and Port Elizabeth, each offering unique benefits and communities.
Can I bring pets to South Africa?
Yes, but pets must meet South African Department of Agriculture requirements, including vaccinations, microchipping, and potential quarantine.
What popular locations do British expats choose in South Africa?
Favoured areas include Ballito, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Stellenbosch, and more.
Popular Places to Live in South Africa
- Benoni
- Bloemfontein
- Boksburg
- Cape Town
- Durban
- East London
- George
- Johannesburg
- Kimberley
- Krugersdorp
- Midrand
- Newcastle
- Pietermaritzburg
- Polokwane
- Port Elizabeth
- Pretoria
- Randburg
- Roodepoort
- Soweto
- Vereeniging
- Welkom