Part of our Moving to Europe, Australia & New Zealand guide
Moving to Spain from the USA (2026 Guide)
Customs relief, documents, ports and delivery for shipping household goods from the United States to Spain.
Short answer
Spain's Agencia Tributaria admits household goods free of import duty and VAT when you move your habitual residence from outside the EU. You need 12 months' residence outside the EU, 6 months' ownership of the goods, and a detailed list of items with estimated values and purchase dates. Containers usually arrive at Valencia, Barcelona or Algeciras.
Duty-free import rules for Spain
Standard EU removal-goods relief applies: at least 12 months living outside the EU, goods owned and used for at least 6 months, and import within 12 months of moving. Full EU conditions are on our customs guide.
- Spain asks for a detailed list of goods with estimated value and approximate purchase date. Registration on the municipal register (padrón) can prove when you settled.
Official source: Agencia Tributaria: transfer of residence exemptions.
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
Main container ports include Valencia, Barcelona and Algeciras. Your mover's destination agent clears customs and delivers to your new home. Common delivery cities include Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga.
Good to know
The Canary Islands use IGIC instead of VAT; rules are similar but check them separately.
Getting quotes for Spain
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.
Leaving from a U.S. city
Licensed movers for Spain
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 VAT on household goods moving to Spain?
Not if you qualify for the transfer-of-residence exemption and the goods were taxed normally where you bought them.
What proof of residence does Spain accept?
Examples include registration on the padrón, a lease, utility bills and employment contracts.
Can I ship goods before I move to Spain?
Yes, if you commit to settling within 6 months; customs can ask for a guarantee.
How long does it take to ship household goods to Spain?
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 Spain?
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.
Get free quotes from licensed movers
One short form for International Moving Company. Pick items from the inventory list or upload a quick video walkthrough. Your request is shared with Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations and My International Movers so you can compare their quotes. Free, no obligation.