India To the United Kingdom Relocation Guide
Dreaming of life in the United Kingdom? You are not alone. Moving to the UK from India is a dream of many people who want to work and live in a country with excellent infrastructure. When it comes to relocating to the UK, you not only have to take a flight ticket and enter the country. You also need to have a valid visa and passport so that you do not have any issues at any time in a foreign land.
In addition, you also need to look for trusted India to UK movers so that you can ensure a safe and hassle-free transfer of your goods. Just like you need a visa and passport to enter a foreign land, your goods may also need necessary documents so that they can be shipped without problems. Reliable packers and movers from India to UK can help you in this regard.
If you are looking for the best India to UK moving company to ship your belongings and get assistance in other related jobs, your search ends here. At Abroad Movers, we know relocation from India to the United Kingdom can be challenging. Whether you want to relocate to this European country for better job opportunities, career growth, better educational opportunities, or a better lifestyle… You will have both opportunities and adjustments.
At first, you might feel excited about the new country, new environment, and views of lovely landscapes. But…getting into the process can be as difficult as climbing a lofty mountain. You need to go through several tasks that can ruin your excitement about relocating to the UK. Paperwork, customs clearance, packing, logistics, shipping, and choosing the best international movers from India to the UK are a few challenging tasks in the process of an overseas relocation.
Relocating with Top India to UK Movers and Packers
Relocating to the UK from India is not as easy as it seems. It is not about moving boxes across borders; it is about uprooting life from a place where you have treasured a lot of memories. You need to leave behind familiar surroundings, relatives, neighbors, and cultural traditions.
This is why you need to decide to move to the UK or any country in the world after brainstorming all the pros and cons. If you have made this big, life-changing decision, you must plan it with a reputable and experienced India to UK moving company. Make sure the company you choose knows about the ins and outs of an international relocation.
If you are not sure about which moving company you should hire to ship your goods and get assistance in relocation, look no further than Abroad Movers. Here is how we can help you hire the best movers and packers for India to the United Kingdom relocation.
Steps to Book Best India to UK Movers
1. Share Your Relocation Requirements
Use our quick quote form to enter details like your name, mobile number, email ID, current address, destination address, moving date, and specific requirements. Thereafter, submit the form online. Be confident that your information is completely safe with us. We follow a strict privacy policy and use customers’ information to process their requests only. So, be tension-free.
2. Get Free Quotes From Vetted Movers
Once you submit the quote form and we get your requests, we will match them with the top 3 nearby international moving companies. We will then share the details about these companies with you via SMS and Email. Shortly, the recommended moving companies will call you to confirm your relocation requirements. After understanding everything, they will give you estimates for quotes. Remember that these are estimates only and the final costs of moving to UK can vary.
3. Compare and Select the Best Movers
Now, you have quotes from the top 3 fully-vetted movers that specialize in international relocation services. Go through each quote to understand offerings and pricing. Then, compare all quotes based on offerings, pricing, customer reviews, and service ratings. Select the one that best matches your preferences along with the budget you have planned for your move.
4. Schedule a Pre-Move Survey
You have selected the best-matched mover for moving to UK from India. Invite the chosen company to your home for a pre-move survey. In the process, the mover will assess your belongings and other aspects of the relocation. Thereafter, they will draft a final price quote and present you with a contract to sign it. Before signing the contract, go through it to ensure you understand every term. Your mover will explain everything if you have confusions. You can also invite all three recommended movers for the pre-move survey so that you can even get a better deal on pricing.
5. Get Moving and Have Peace of Mind
Based on the discussed moving plan, the mover will come to your place on the scheduled moving date. They will pack your belongings using high-quality packing materials. Usually, they use triple-layered corrugated cardboard boxes to secure your items. Plus, they use specialized materials to ensure the safety of fragile items in shipping. They will ship your items either by sea or air. Usually, they use the sea cargo shipping option to transfer a large volume of goods. Air freight is ideal for shipping a few items. Also, you will get customs clearance assistance, paperwork assistance, timely delivery, and settling-in assistance with our movers based on your preferences.
Why Us? Because We Partner with Top Movers from India to UK
At Abroad Movers, we have collaborations with top-notch international moving companies in India that offer services for global shipping requirements. We have vetted the different credentials of each mover beforehand to ensure you get high-quality relocation services. Usually, we check the following credentials of movers.
- License: We make sure that whether the company is licensed or not. A licensed moving company will never like damage to their reputation just because of substandard services.
- Registration: A registered moving company is more likely to be a legitimate service provider. This is why we require our movers to be registered.
- Experience: Moving with an experienced company gives you peace of mind. They execute the process by incorporating their experience to ensure for safety of belongings while in transit. This is why we partner with those international moving companies in India that have at least three years of experience.
- Knowledge: We make sure that our movers have in-depth knowledge of the ins and outs of worldwide relocation. A knowledgeable moving company can efficiently handle the entire process and save you time by expediting the process.
We are vouching for our partners’ credentials because we have thoroughly vetted them beforehand. This means you do not need to make your effort and waste your time in research. This allows you time to streamline the process and focus on other important tasks.
Experience the Safest Shipping to UK with Top International Movers
Shipping to UK from India? It is the toughest phase of an international relocation. Household goods shipping? Fine art handling? Vehicle shipping? Pet relocation? Legitimate international moving companies can ensure a safe and hassle-free India to UK relocation experience.
Packing? Done with the utmost care using packing supplies of international standards. Local logistics? Done securely. Shipping? Done using the appropriate shipping methods. Customs clearance? Efficiently done. International moving companies from India to UK are competent in handling all these tasks. This saves you time so that you can focus on other important aspects of the India to UK moving.
If you are relocating to UK from India and looking for a reliable company to ship your belongings, you do not need to worry much. We can help you select the best moving company for your India to UK relocation. We will allow you to compare quotes from multiple verified companies. This way you can select the best international moving service by saving up to 30% on overall relocation costs. So, choose us if you want safe and secure shipping of your belongings from India to UK.
Packing and Shipping Services for India to UK Move
If you hire one of our recommended moving companies for your India to UK relocation, you will have the following services.
- Packing Services: You will get professional packing of household items and fragile items along with custom crating for valuable items. Also, you will get disassembly and reassembly of furniture.
- Inventory and labeling: The moving company’s representative will create a detailed inventory of items. Also, they will provide you with clear labeling of boxes and crates.
- Customs Clearance: You will have the best assistance in the preparation of customs documentation. They will efficiently handle customs procedures and regulations. Additionally, you will get duty and tax payment assistance
- Shipping and Transportation: The movers will offer you the choice of shipping methods—sea or air, with door-to-door delivery service. Also, they will provide you with insurance coverage for shipments.
- Storage: Relocation services will also include short-term or long-term storage options with secure storage facilities.
- Delivery and Settling In: You will get delivery to your new address on time. The experts will unpack items and assist you with the placement of belongings. Also, they will ensure the disposal of packing materials. Moreover, they will offer assistance with settling in, such as finding local amenities and services.
India to the UK Relocation: Shipping Options
When moving from India to UK, you will have two shipping options: Sea Cargo and Air Cargo. You will need to decide between both. Just keep in mind that each option has its own pros and cons. So, make the decision thoughtfully.
Sea Cargo or Sea Freight
If you are moving a lot of stuff, sea freight is usually the way to go because it is cheaper. The downside is that it takes a longer time – about 4 to 6 weeks. That can change a bit depending on where you are sending things from and to, and of course, any customs delays.
There are two options within sea freight:
- FCL (full container load) and
- LCL (less than container load)
FCL is best if you have a ton of stuff because you get a whole container just for yourself. LCL is better for smaller shipments, and you share space with other people, which helps keep the cost down. But it is slower compared to air freight, and you will need to pack things well to avoid damage.
Air Cargo or Air Freight
Now, if you need your stuff faster, air freight is your go-to option. Your items can arrive in about 3 to 7 days, which is great if you are sending something important or urgent. The downside is that it is a lot more expensive. So, it is usually better for smaller shipments or things that are high in value, like electronics or documents. If you do not mind paying a little more and need things quickly, air freight is the way to go.
Shipping Costs from India to the UK
Relocating to the United Kingdom from India involves many considerations. Among the most significant considerations for families moving to the UK is “Shipping Costs”. While these charges are not set in stone, a clear understanding of the cost-affecting factors and the approximate costs for different shipping methods can help in planning your move effectively.
Factors Influencing Shipping Costs
The cost of freight shipping from India to the UK depends on several factors:
- Weight and Volume: The total weight and cubic volume of your belongings are primary determinants of the shipping cost.
- Shipping Method: Air freight is generally faster but more expensive. Sea freight offers a more economical option for larger volumes, but takes longer transit times.
- Fuel Surcharges: Fluctuations in fuel prices can impact the overall cost as they will affect local transport costs, from home to port and port to home.
- Currency Fluctuations: Exchange rates between the Indian Rupee and the British Pound can affect the final price.
- Service Type: The specific services chosen, such as door-to-door delivery or port-to-port, will influence the cost.
- Container Type: The type of container used, especially for sea freight (e.g., standard, reefer), plays a role.
- Insurance: Opting for shipping insurance will add to the total cost. However, it provides crucial protection for your goods.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: These are additional charges levied by both countries.
Approximate Shipping Charges from India to the UK
To provide a clearer picture, here are the approximate shipping charges for both air and sea freight from India to the UK:
Air Freight Charges from India to the UK
Air freight is ideal for smaller, time-sensitive shipments due to its quicker delivery times.
| Size & Type of Freight | Shipping Timing | Estimated Cost |
| Small Package (1-10 kg) | 2-5 days | Rs. 10,000 – Rs. 20,000 |
| Pallet (100-200 kg) | 2-5 days | Rs. 50,000 – Rs. 100,000 |
Sea Freight Charges from India to the UK
Sea freight is a more cost-effective solution for larger volumes and less urgent shipments.
| Container Type | Shipping Timing | Estimated Cost |
| Less than Container Load (LCL) | 25-40 days | Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 50,000 per cubic meter |
| Full Container Load (FCL) | 25-40 days | Rs. 200,000 – Rs. 400,000 per TEU |
| Reefer LCL | 25-40 days | Rs. 30,000 – Rs. 70,000 per cubic meter |
| Reefer FCL | 25-40 days | Rs. 250,000 – Rs. 500,000 per TEU |
Important Terminology:
- Pallet: A flat transport structure, typically made of wood, plastic, or metal, used to efficiently stack and transport goods.
- TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit): A standard unit of measurement used to describe the capacity of container ships and terminals, equivalent to a 20-foot-long intermodal container.
- Reefer: A refrigerated container, also known as an RF container, designed for transporting temperature-sensitive goods.
Customs and Duties (Shipping Household Goods from India to the UK)
- Duty-Free Allowance: Sending household goods or personal items from India to the UK is duty-free. However, this exemption comes with a condition. You must own and use those items for at least six months before your India to UK relocation. Also, you should intend to use them in the UK.
- Customs Inspection: Customs officials will inspect your shipment. So, make sure you are not sending prohibited or restricted items. Check the latest UK customs guidelines for details.
- Duties and Taxes: Certain types of goods may require duties and taxes, which are calculated based on many factors, such as the type, value, and purpose of the goods. If you are not sure about these taxes and duties, simply ask your India to UK movers for estimates.
Types of Goods You Can Ship to the UK from India
You can send a wide variety of household and personal items:
- Textile & apparel: Cotton garments, silk sarees, woolen clothes, handicrafts, embroidery, scarves, shawls, and stoles
- Food & beverages: Packaged spices & condiments, ready-to-eat meals, tea & coffee, dry foods, and Indian sweets & snacks in sealed packaging. (Note: FSSAI (India) and the UK’s Food Standards Agency regulations apply. No perishable or unlicensed food items.)
- Health & Personal Care: Ayurvedic products, herbal supplements, essential oils, natural cosmetics, and handmade soaps.
- Jewelry & accessories: Imitation jewelry, silver and gold (within legal limits and declared properly), fashion accessories, and gemstones (must be declared and certified).
- Home decor & handicrafts: Wooden artifacts, metal crafts, terracotta items, wall hangings, rugs, carpets, etc.
- Books & printed materials: Educational books, religious texts, and stationery items.
- Electronics & gadgets: TVs, Music systems, small appliances, mobile phones, accessories, computer peripherals, laptops, etc.
- Sports & hobbies: Sports equipment, musical instruments, and bicycles
- Miscellaneous: Gifts, souvenirs, and Pooja items
Types of Items You Cannot Ship to the UK from India
Prohibited Items (Not Allowed at All)
- Fresh food: Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, or seafood.
- Perishable goods: Anything that can spoil quickly without refrigeration.
- Narcotics & illegal drugs: Cannabis, heroin, opium, and ayurvedic products with banned ingredients.
- Weapons & ammunition: Guns, explosives, and parts or accessories of firearms.
- Currency and counterfeit money: Indian or foreign currency, fake notes, coins, etc.
- Pornographic materials: DVDs, CDs, USB Drives, Printed Materials, Magazines, or Books containing pornographic content or considered sexually explicit.
- Animal products: Unprocessed skins, bones, ivory, etc.
- Endangered species and products: Items banned under the CITES agreement (e.g., sandalwood, certain plants, coral).
Restricted Items (Need Licenses or Approval)
- Medicines & health supplements: Requires prescriptions, certificates, or licenses (especially ayurvedic or herbal medicines)
- Alcohol & tobacco: Can only be sent under specific conditions with duties and licenses
- Gold & precious stones: Subject to declaration, valuation, and import limits
- Batteries & hazardous materials: Lithium batteries, flammable liquids, acids — restricted by airlines and couriers
- Plants, seeds, and soil: Subject to phytosanitary inspection and quarantine regulations
- Cultural artifacts or antiques: Items over 100 years old or of archaeological value may need clearance from ASI (Archaeological Survey of India)
- Food items: Must comply with the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA); only sealed, labeled, non-perishable items allowed
Things to Consider in the Shipping Process
There are many things that you need to consider when moving and shipping to the UK from India. Let’s take a look at the following considerations.
- Plan Ahead: Estimate what you need to ship, declutter things, sell or donate unwanted stuff, and research India to UK moving companies for free quotes. Abroad Movers is the best platform to receive free quotes from top-rated international movers in India.
- Pack Smart: Use quality packing materials and label boxes, and create a detailed inventory list in English. However, it is best to use professional packing, as movers use export-grade packing materials and ensure the packaging is customs-friendly.
- Choose the best India to UK Movers: Select a trustworthy international mover with experience in India-UK relocations. Compare at least three quotes to hire reliable services at an affordable price. Consider insurance for your goods.
- Complete Documentation: Required documents typically include:
- Copy of your passport
- Detailed, dated, and signed inventory list in English
- Original purchase bills for new items (if applicable).
- Customs Clearance: Work with your India to UK moving company to ensure all paperwork is correct. Customs may inspect your goods, so declare everything accurately.
- Track Your Shipment: Most international moving companies provide tracking options for peace of mind.
Top Reasons for Moving to UK from India
The most important question! Why do many people from India want to relocate to the United Kingdom? Here are a few reasons that you should know before you embark on an international journey and put your legs in the land of UK.
Well-Paid Job Opportunities
The United Kingdom with its unstoppable growing economy has long been a preferred destination for Indian professionals. Because of many thriving businesses, the country offers countless job opportunities for competent workers and skilled professionals. If you are planning to relocate to the UK to work, you will not have a shortage of well-paid job opportunities. The key sectors that have a high demand for professionals are as follows:
- Finance and Insurance: London, the global financial capital, offers well-paid job opportunities in banking, insurance, investment, and fintech.
- Education: The UK’s top-notch universities and educational institutions have a huge demand for teachers, IT specialists, researchers, and administrators.
- IT and Communication: This sector offers very high salary packages for talented web designers, AI developers, software engineers, data scientists, and web developers.
- Healthcare: There is no dearth of career prospects in healthcare facilities in the United Kingdom. If you are a medical student and dreaming of life in a foreign country, the UK can be the best choice.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: The pharmaceutical industry is a major component of the UK’s robust economy. This sector offers high salary packages for pharmacists, scientists, quality control technicians, clinical trial assistants, pharmacy technicians, and drug safety specialists.
- Real Estate and Construction: This sector is the major component of the UK’s economy and offers lucrative job opportunities for architects, civil engineers, property inspectors, real estate agents, and skilled workers.
Apart from the above sectors, the UK offers well-paid job opportunities in sectors like retail and wholesale, manufacturing, and transport and storage. In short, there is no dearth of job opportunities in English land.
Top-Notch Education System
One of the primary reasons for relocating to the UK is the top-notch education system. Whether want higher education for career advancements or world-class education for your children’s future, here you will find the best. The education system in this country comprises four main parts: primary education, secondary education, further education, and higher education. The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world that impart world-class education to students.
The top-notch universities for higher studies in the country are as follows:
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge
- University of Oxford, Oxford
- Imperial College London, London
- London School of Economics, London
- University of Bristol, Bristol
- King’s College London, London
Access to World-Class Healthcare Facilities
Living in the UK means access to high-quality healthcare facilities. The country is home to top-notch government hospitals and private hospitals. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is one of the leading healthcare systems in the world. These hospitals are equipped with modern amenities, advanced technologies, and highly talented doctors and healthcare professionals.
The top hospitals in the UK include:
- Cambridge University Hospital, Cambridge
- The Wellington Hospital, London
- King Edward VIIs Hospital, London
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham
- St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, London
- Cromwell Hospital, London
- Freeman Hospital, Newcastle
- Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Birmingham
- Bedford Trust Hospital, Bedford
- BMI Healthcare Institute (60 hospitals nationwide)
- Royal Marsden Hospital, London
- St Thomas Hospital, London
Diverse Culture
The culture of the UK, especially England, is diverse. It is a dynamic blend of ancient traditions, rich history, and modernity. Since people from different countries have settled in the UK, you will find here different cultures of different nationalities thriving well in perfect harmony. Christianity, Sikhism, Hinduism, Islam, and other religions are followed by people of different nationalities here. Expats and residents both live harmoniously and showcase diverse cultures and traditions.
Support from Indian Communities in the UK
The UK is home to approximately 1.764 million Indians including 351000 NRIs and 1413000 PIOs. The Indian community has created a multicultural landscape in the country and is known for its high levels of social integration. British Indians support Indian expats in several ways such as through cultural events, and social gatherings. Thus, you may not have to feel homesickness as there will be British Indians and Indian communities to help you significantly in coping with relocation stress.
Quality of Life
Living in the UK means enjoying a high-quality life. The excellent infrastructure, established Indian community, cultural familiarity, world-class education, advanced healthcare system, well-paid job opportunities, and safety are the special traits of living in the UK that ensure a high-quality life for residents and expatriates as well.
UK Visa and Immigration
The very first thing that you must know is that you cannot enter the UK without a valid visa. So, make sure that you have the correct visa based on your goals and requirements. Whether you want to relocate to work, study, or live with your family members—getting a valid visa is a wise decision. Although there are plenty of visa options available, you need to choose the correct one wisely. The common UK visa options are as follows:
| Visa Type | Description | Requirements | Validity |
| Student Visa | For Indian students pursuing higher education in the UK. | – Valid passport – Acceptance letter from a UK university – Proof of accommodation – Evidence of sufficient funds – Receipt of visa fee payment | Valid for the duration of the course |
| Skilled Worker Visa | For individuals with a job offer from a UK employer meeting skill/salary requirements. | – Valid passport – Proof of job offer and sponsorship – Certificate of sponsorship – Evidence of accommodation and sufficient funds | Generally valid for up to 5 years |
| Health and Care Worker Visa | For healthcare professionals working with the NHS or in adult social care. | – Valid passport – Job offer from an NHS employer or care provider – Certificate of sponsorship | Generally valid for up to 5 years |
| Graduate Visa | For international students who have completed a degree in the UK. | – Valid passport – Proof of completing a degree in the UK – Evidence of accommodation and sufficient funds | Valid for at least 2 years |
| Visitor Visa | For short-term visits for tourism, business, or studies. | – Valid passport – Round-trip flight tickets – Proof of accommodation – Evidence of sufficient funds | Allows stays of up to 6 months |
| Family Visa | For joining family members who are UK residents or citizens. | – Valid passport – Proof of relationship with the family member in the UK – Evidence of accommodation and sufficient funds | Varies based on individual circumstances |
| Global Talent Visa | For highly skilled individuals in academia, research, arts, or digital technology. | – Recognition as a leader or potential leader in your field – Endorsement from an approved body | Typically valid for up to 5 years |
If you are not sure about which type of visa will be right for you and are having difficulties in visa applications, rely on our movers. Our movers will provide you with total support in visa applications.
Cost of Living in the United Kingdom (UK)
The average cost of living in the UK per month for a family of four members is £2,791.7 (roughly Rs. 2,97,599) without rent. For a student or a single person, the estimated cost of living in the country is £820.9 (rough Rs. 87,5180 without rent. Let’s have a look at the following table to learn more about various expenses for living in the United Kingdom.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (£) | Description |
| Accommodation | £750 – £2,800 | Varies significantly by location (e.g., London vs. smaller cities) |
| Rent (London) | £1,087 – £2,805 | Higher in central areas; smaller cities like Belfast average around £800 |
| Groceries | £200 – £470 | Basic groceries for one person; higher in London |
| Transportation | £103 – £200 | Includes public transport; monthly passes available |
| Utilities | £140 – £314 | Covers electricity, gas, water, and internet |
| Healthcare | £81 | Average cost for a doctor’s appointment (NHS coverage) |
| Entertainment | £148 – £500 | Dining out and leisure activities |
| Education (Children) | £950 – £1,815 | Schooling costs vary widely depending on the institution |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | £800 – £1,200 | Additional personal expenses |
People Also Ask When Moving and Shipping to the UK
Yes, you can send furniture from India to the UK. Our partner international moving companies from India to the UK offer door-to-door or port-to-port services for such shipments. You can choose between air freight (faster but expensive) and sea freight (cheaper, suitable for large or heavy items). Most people opt for sea freight via Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL), depending on the volume.
To send furniture, ensure it is properly packed and labeled. However, if you opt for the full service of our partner movers, they will pack and label on your behalf. You will also need a detailed inventory, commercial invoice, and possibly a certificate of origin. UK customs may charge duties and VAT based on the furniture’s type, material, and value. Our India to UK Movers can handle documentation, customs clearance, and delivery. Also, check if the furniture meets UK safety and fire regulations.
Good question. It depends on your personal goals and what you are looking for in life. Many people move for better career opportunities, quality education, or to experience a different lifestyle.
The UK offers strong infrastructure, healthcare, and international exposure, which can be very appealing. However, it is not without its challenges.
The cost of living is high, especially in cities like London. And adjusting to a new culture and climate can take time. You may also miss the closeness of family and the comfort of familiar surroundings.
If you have a clear reason to move and are emotionally and financially prepared, your move from India to the UK can be a rewarding experience. The only thing you need to do is weigh the advantages and disadvantages of relocation to the UK before making the decision.
If you are moving to the UK and bringing your personal items, you may not have to pay import duty. But there are some rules you must follow. The items should be for personal use only. You must have owned and used them for at least six months before moving. Also, you should plan to live in the UK for at least one year.
In addition, you must apply for “Transfer of Residence Relief” (ToR). This helps you bring your items without paying tax or duty. For this, you will need to fill out a form and give proof like ID, address, and a list of items. If you do not apply for this or your items do not follow the rules, then you may have to pay customs duty and VAT.
Some things, like alcohol and tobacco, may always be taxed, even if they are personal. So, it is essential to check the UK government website or ask customs before you ship anything. This will help you avoid surprise charges.
The best way to ship furniture internationally depends on your budget, time, and the amount of furniture. One common method is sea freight. It is cheaper than air freight but takes more time. If you choose sea freight, your furniture is packed into containers and shipped by ship. Book a full container if you have lots of household items, and share space with others if you have fewer things.
Another option is air freight. It is faster but costs a lot more. It is good for light and valuable furniture that you need quickly. In this option, make sure to pack everything well. Use bubble wrap, blankets, and strong boxes. Hire a trusted international moving company. However, our movers will do the packing on your behalf and make you tension-free. They will help with packing, shipping, and customs paperwork. Moving companies also give insurance in case anything gets damaged.
Always check the rules of the UK beforehand for charges or special rules for wooden furniture. Plus, plan early, compare costs, and choose the method that suits your needs the best.
Moving to the UK has some disadvantages that you should think about. One big problem is the high cost of living. Cities like London are very expensive. Rent, food, and travel can take a large part of your income.
The weather is also not liked by everyone. It rains a lot and the sky is often cloudy. Winters can feel long and dark.
You may also feel lonely at first. If you move far from your family and friends, it takes time to adjust. Making new friends can be hard in a new country.
There are also strict rules for visas and immigration. Getting the right visa and dealing with the paperwork can be stressful.
In some places, you may face long waiting times for healthcare. Though the UK has free health services, they are often busy
.
Also, some people find it hard to understand local accents or slang.
So, even if the UK has many good things, it is important to think about these problems before moving.
Many Indians choose to live in cities that have good jobs, safety, and a strong Indian community. One of the best cities is London. It has many Indian restaurants, temples, and grocery stores. There are also many job options and good schools. But living in London can be costly.
Leicester is also a popular city. It has a large Indian population. You will see Indian shops, festivals, and culture everywhere. The cost of living is lower than in London.
Birmingham is another good choice. It is the second-largest city in the UK. Many Indians live there. It offers good transport, jobs, and Indian places to visit.
Other cities like Manchester and Coventry also have growing Indian communities. They are good for students and families both.
So, if you want a mix of culture, comfort, and community, these cities are good choices for Indians moving to the UK.
No, the UK is not cheap for most Indians. In fact, it can feel quite expensive. Rent, transport, and food cost more than in India. Big cities like London are even more costly.
For example, a small room in London can cost more than a full flat in many Indian cities. Eating out, travelling by train, and even simple things like coffee or milk are costlier in the UK.
Also, if you earn in Indian Rupees and spend in British Pounds, it becomes more expensive. But if you get a job in the UK and earn in Pounds, then it is easier to manage.
Some small towns are cheaper than big cities. You can save money by cooking at home, using buses, and living away from city centers.
So, the UK is not cheap, but with planning and a job, you can live a good life.
The cheapest way to move goods from India to the UK is by sea freight. It is slower than air freight but costs much less. If you can pack your goods on your own, do this, so you can save more money on shipment. Plus, ask your movers to ship your goods via a shared container if you have fewer goods to ship. Our partner India to UK movers have an option for this called LCL (Less Than Container Load).
The cost of moving from India to the UK depends on many things. On average, you may need between Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 7 lakh or more. The total cost includes flight tickets, visa fees, shipping charges, and living expenses for the first few months.
– Flight tickets can cost between Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 80,000, depending on the time and airline.
– Visa fees for students or skilled workers may be around Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 1,00,000.
– Shipping your items by sea can cost from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2 lakh, based on the volume.
– You also need money for rent, food, and transport in the UK. For the first 2–3 months, you should keep at least Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh ready for daily expenses.
If you are a student, you also need to show proof of funds in your bank account for your visa. This can be over Rs. 10 lakh.
So, plan well and save enough before moving. The cost can change based on your lifestyle, city, and how many things you take along.
Relocating to UK from India FAQs
When hiring a moving company from India to UK relocation, check the following credentials.
– Experience in the industry
– Knowledge about the ins and outs of international relocation
– Company registration and license
– Track records and reputation in the industry
– Services offered and pricing
– Customer reviews and ratings
There are several ways to gather information about top-rated, affordable international moving companies. You can start research with the following:
– Searching online and browsing the websites of top-ranked companies.
– Browsing various online directories and specialized portals.
– Getting recommendations from your relatives, friends, neighbors, and colleagues.
Different international moving companies may have different parameters to quote the prices for their services. Thus, they may vary in pricing. Comparing multiple quotes will help you select the best service and grab the best deal. Usually, it can save up to 30% on your overall relocation costs from India to the UK.
Yes. Some of our partner movers also offer cultural orientation for Indian immigrants in the UK. They organize cultural workshops and training, language classes, and local customs and etiquette guidance. In short, you will have a total support system for settling in the UK.
Yes. Our partner moving companies also offer visa and immigration services for India to UK relocation. You will have the best assistance with visa application and document preparation. Also, you will have immigration legal advice.
Some moving companies offer additional services for families moving to the UK from India. These services may include:
– Property search and selection
– School selection and admission assistance
– Educational counseling
– Financial and tax advice
– Health insurance enrolment
– Doctor and hospital referrals
– Job search and career counseling
For goods shipping to the UK from India, you may need to prepare yourself with the following documents.
– Commercial Invoice: Includes quantities of goods, their values, payment terms, and buyer/seller information.
– Packing List: A list of items for shipping with weight and description.
– Certificate of Origin: A document that certifies the origin of the goods.
– Export and Import Licenses: Issued by the Indian government and the UK government respectively. (required for some specific items).
– Import Declaration: Filed with UK Customs authorities providing details of the imported goods.
– Insurance Certificate: Proof of insurance coverage for the shipment.
– Bill of Lading: A receipt of the goods for shipment.
– Air Waybill: A document issued by the airline for air shipments.
You can use Abroad Movers to hire services for moving to not only the UK but also to the USA, UAE, other countries. So, yes, you can count on this portal to hire services for relocating to the USA from India.