Moving to Denmark from the USA (2026 Guide)

Duty-free import rules for Denmark

• Lived in a country outside the EU for at least 12 consecutive months.
• Use the goods for the same purpose after the move.
• Bring the goods no later than 12 months after you move, and no earlier than 6 months before (early shipments need a security for duty and VAT).
• Your carrier or shipping agent files the customs clearance declaration; you also submit the declaration of personal property to Toldstyrelsen.
• Keep proof such as a lease or purchase contract, employment contract, and receipts showing 6 months of ownership for valuable items.

Official source: Toldstyrelsen: if you move to Denmark.

Confirm a mover's FMC license and any association claim in associations and licensing, and read reviews with where to research international mover reviews. More official customs offices are listed on those pages and in the customs guide.

Ports and delivery

Aarhus is Denmark's main container port; some shipments come through Copenhagen or via Hamburg and finish by truck. Your mover's destination agent clears customs and delivers to your new home. Common delivery cities include Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg.

Good to know

Lending, pledging or renting out relieved goods in the first 12 months makes duty and VAT due. Alcohol, tobacco, commercial vehicles and trade equipment are not covered. Cars brought from outside the EU fall under separate Danish rules, so check them before you ship one.

Getting quotes for Denmark

Ask every mover to price the same surveyed volume door to door, and check each line against our quote checklist. Pick a method in shipping methods, and check restricted items before you pack.

Licensed movers for Denmark

Compare the licensed movers we work with on our 2026 rankings: Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations, My International Movers.

General information, not legal or immigration advice. Confirm current rules with the official customs office before you ship.

Frequently asked questions

Do I pay duty on household goods moving to Denmark?

Not if you lived outside the EU for 12 consecutive months and bring the goods within 12 months of moving, for continued personal use.

What forms do I need for a move to Denmark?

Your mover's customs clearance declaration plus Toldstyrelsen's declaration of personal property, with supporting documents such as a lease and employment contract.

Which port do moves to Denmark use?

Usually Aarhus, Denmark's largest container port. Some loads route through Copenhagen or Hamburg.

How long does it take to ship household goods to Denmark?

It depends on the U.S. departure port, the sailing schedule, transshipments, and whether you use a full or shared container. Ask each mover for the port-to-port transit time and the door-to-door estimate in writing.

Which movers can ship my belongings to Denmark?

Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations and My International Movers — the four licensed movers we work with — handle international household moves. Request free quotes from the four we work with with one form.