Moving from Abu Dhabi to the UK
Move from Abu Dhabi to the UK with one coordinated team. We manage export packing, sea or air shipping, UK customs, and delivery to your new address. One coordinator. Clear scope. Clear timelines.
- IAM, BIFA, FIATA member
- Groupage, FCL 20ft and 40ft, air freight, boxes only
- UK ToR guidance for used personal effects
- Secure UK storage and timed delivery
- Rated 4.8/5 by customers
Why choose London Moving for Abu Dhabi to UK
- Door-to-door from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain to any UK address
- Export-grade packing and ISPM-15 wooden crating for fragile and high value items
- Flexible modes to match budget and time
- ToR and UK customs paperwork support
- Clear quote with inclusions and delivery planning
Service options
Shared container groupage
Share container space and pay by volume. Best for partial households and staged moves. Ideal for apartments and small villas.
Full container load FCL
Dedicated 20ft or 40ft container. Fewer handling steps. Better control on loading and delivery windows. Best for full homes.
Air freight
Fast door-to-door for essentials and time critical shipments. Airline-compliant packing and documentation.
Door-to-door boxes
Cartons or luggage only. By air or sea. Pickup, documentation, customs, and UK delivery included. See door-to-door box shipping.
Sample pricing and transit times
Final pricing depends on volume, access, season, insurance, and UK delivery area. Use these ranges for planning.
| Mode | Typical Volume | Transit Time | Guide Price GBP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groupage shared | 3 to 12 m³ | 8 to 10 weeks | £950 to £2,650 |
| FCL 20ft | 28 to 32 m³ | 5 to 7 weeks | £3,700 to £5,900 |
| FCL 40ft | 55 to 65 m³ | 5 to 7 weeks | £6,200 to £9,100 |
| Air freight | 0.5 to 2.0 m³ | 3 to 5 days | £9 to £15 per kg chargeable |
| Boxes only | 1 to 10 cartons | 7 to 14 days air or 6 to 9 weeks sea | From £65 per box |
Tip. Confirm building move-in permissions and loading bay slots in Abu Dhabi. Arrange UK parking early. Access issues create delays and extra handling.
UK customs and ToR Transfer of Residence
- Used personal effects may qualify for ToR relief if you meet HMRC rules
- Apply before shipping where possible
- Keep your ToR reference ready for import
HMRC ToR guidance Transfer of Residence relief. Abu Dhabi Customs Abu Dhabi Customs. Airline baggage rules Etihad help centre.
Documents you prepare
- Passport copy and UK address
- Visa or BRP if applicable
- ToR approval reference if eligible
- Proof you lived outside the UK and proof of move dates
We prepare
- Packing list and labelled inventory
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Insurance documents if selected
- UK delivery booking and access checks
Moving tips for Abu Dhabi to UK
- Book building permits and loading times in advance
- Measure lifts and stairwells at both ends
- Keep documents and valuables with you
- Use small boxes for books and heavy items
- Crate TVs, glass, marble, and artwork for sea freight
- Label boxes by room and priority for faster unloading
“Pickup in Abu Dhabi and delivery in the UK ran to plan. Packing was organised. Updates were clear at every stage.” — M. Saleh, moved 2024
FAQs
How long does an Abu Dhabi to UK move take
Air 3 to 5 days. FCL sea 5 to 7 weeks. Groupage 8 to 10 weeks depending on consolidation and UK delivery booking.
Can I use ToR for used household goods
Yes if you meet HMRC criteria. Apply in advance and provide the ToR reference at import.
Is groupage safe for fragile items
Yes. We export-pack, crate where needed, and palletise fragile items to reduce movement and handling.
Do you offer UK storage
Yes. Short and long term storage. See storage.
Can you ship boxes only
Yes. Door-to-door box shipping by air or sea. See box shipping.
Middle East to UK routes
Ready to book your Abu Dhabi to UK move
Send your inventory and dates. We confirm packing, routing, customs, and a UK delivery plan.
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