The Ultimate Guide to Moving from the UK to Sweden

Moving to Sweden from the UK is an exciting step — whether you’re chasing a new job opportunity, a lifestyle change, or the calm pace of Scandinavian living. However, international relocation requires planning, precision, and the right professional help.

At Reloux®, we specialise in removals to Sweden and know every detail involved in getting your household safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively to your new home.

This complete guide will walk you through the entire process — from getting your first quote and preparing for customs, to settling into Swedish life with insights on driving, healthcare, education, and finding work.

Moving from the UK to Sweden

1. Planning Your Move to Sweden

A smooth relocation always begins with early planning. Sweden’s rules for customs, driving, and visas are clear, but your move will be simpler if you start at least 8–12 weeks before departure.

Getting a Quote

Reloux offers free, no-obligation moving quotations. You can:

• Request an online quote using our household goods calculator to estimate your total volume (in cubic metres).

• Book a video survey with one of our move consultants to assess your belongings in real time.

Each quote includes:

• Door-to-door transport from the UK to any destination in Sweden

• Professional packing materials and labour

• Customs clearance assistance

• Delivery and reassembly at destination

By gathering a few quotes and understanding what’s included (insurance, packing, storage), you can plan your budget with confidence.

2. Part-Load and Full-Load Removals to Sweden

Reloux provides both part-load and dedicated full-load removals from the UK to Sweden — giving flexibility based on your shipment size and timing.

Part-Load Removals

Perfect if you’re moving a smaller household, apartment, or partial contents. Your goods share space on a vehicle with other shipments heading to Sweden, meaning you only pay for the volume you use.Advantages:

• Cost-effective for smaller moves

• Environmentally friendly (shared transport = reduced emissions)

• Weekly departures from London and the South East to all Swedish destinations

Reloux ensures that your belongings are professionally inventoried, bar-coded, and securely loaded in separate, protected sections of our trucks. We handle all customs documents and confirm delivery schedules before the journey begins.

Full-Load Removals

If you have an entire home to relocate, a dedicated lorry provides the fastest, most direct delivery route from your UK address to your new Swedish home.You’ll receive:

• A dedicated vehicle and driver

• Guaranteed collection and delivery dates

• No trans-shipping or intermediate stops

Whether you’re moving to Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, or a northern city like Umeå,

Reloux’s experienced European operations team manages every leg of the journey seamlessly.

3. Packing Tips & Household Goods Calculation

The success of an international move depends heavily on how well your items are packed. Reloux provides export-grade packing materials and expert crews trained for international transport standards.

Professional Packing Service

Our team carefully packs fragile items using industry-approved techniques:

• Furniture wrapping with quilted blankets and protective film

• Double-walled cartons for glassware and electronics

• Custom wooden crates for artwork, instruments, and antiques

• Detailed inventory lists for every item shipped (essential for customs)

You can also choose a partial packing service — ideal if you want to pack personal items yourself but have Reloux handle furniture and fragile goods.

DIY Packing Tips

If you prefer to pack independently:

• Use sturdy, uniform boxes — avoid supermarket cartons.

• Label each box with contents and destination room.

• Don’t overload; 20–25 kg per box is a safe limit.

• Keep essentials with you (documents, chargers, medication).

Our online volume calculator helps you estimate total cubic metres — critical for accurate pricing and planning truck space.

4. Customs Clearance & Post-Brexit Process

Since the UK left the EU, customs rules apply to moves between Britain and Sweden. Reloux handles this entire process for you.

Required Documents

To move household goods duty-free, you’ll need:

• Passport and proof of UK residence

• Proof of new Swedish address (rental contract or registration)

• Packing inventory

• Transfer of Residence (ToR) form or equivalent declaration

Key Points

• Personal belongings owned for over six months and intended for continued personal use can be imported tax- and duty-free.

• New or unused goods may be subject to VAT.

• Alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and food items have restrictions — Reloux will guide you on what can and cannot be shipped.

Our customs team works directly with Swedish customs authorities to ensure quick clearance and smooth delivery once your shipment reaches Sweden.

5. Driving in Sweden

If you plan to drive in Sweden, a few practical points will make the transition easy.

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

• UK driving licences remain valid for long-term residents. You can exchange it for a Swedish licence without taking a test once you register.

• Winter tyres are mandatory between December and March.

• Always drive with headlights on, even during the day.

• Keep your vehicle well-maintained and prepared for snow or icy roads.

If you bring your UK-registered vehicle, it must be imported and registered in Sweden within 12 months of arrival. Reloux can coordinate transport and advise on documentation, MOT equivalents, and road tax registration.

Sweden’s roads are exceptionally well kept, and once you’ve adjusted to driving on the opposite side, you’ll appreciate the wide open routes and calm driving culture.

6. Education in Sweden

Families moving to Sweden will find an excellent, inclusive education system.Education is free and compulsory for children aged 6–16, and most schools are government-funded.

Key Features

• Children begin in Förskoleklass (pre-school class) at age 6.

• Grundskola covers Years 1–9, followed by optional Gymnasium (upper secondary).

• English is widely taught, and many students are bilingual by their teens.

• School meals and learning materials are provided free of charge.

For International Families

Major cities offer international schools that teach in English or follow IB or British curricula — ideal for families relocating short-term. Early application is recommended as spaces are limited.

For university education, Sweden boasts top-ranked institutions such as Lund University, Uppsala University, and Stockholm University, offering many English-taught degrees.Note: British students are now classed as non-EU and must pay tuition, but Reloux can assist with student moves and shipping of study materials.

7. Healthcare in Sweden

Sweden’s healthcare system is among the best in Europe — publicly funded, affordable, and accessible to all registered residents.

How It Works

After moving, register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to obtain your personal identity number (personnummer). This automatically registers you for the national health system.Once registered, you can access care at local clinics (Vårdcentraler) and hospitals.

Typical patient fees:

• GP visit: 200–300 SEK (£15–25)

• Specialist appointment: ~400 SEK (£30)

• Hospital stay: ~100 SEK per day (£8–10)

After you’ve spent about 1,200 SEK in a year, any further care is free — thanks to Sweden’s high-cost protection cap.

Before you register, ensure you have private or travel health insurance for temporary cover.Reloux clients moving for work or family reunification often get support with this setup through our relocation advisors.

Swedish healthcare is highly digital — you can book appointments, check lab results, and get 24-hour advice through the national platform 1177.se, which also offers English options.

8. Finding Work in Sweden

For many moving from the UK, Sweden’s thriving economy and healthy work-life balance are key attractions. The country offers stable employment opportunities, excellent employee rights, and a progressive working culture.

Work Permits & Visas

Since Brexit, UK citizens need a work or residence permit to live and work in Sweden. Usually, this means securing a job offer first — your Swedish employer will then help sponsor your permit through the Swedish Migration Agency.

If you’re moving with family, a spouse or partner can often apply for a dependent residence permit.

Job Market Overview

Sweden’s most in-demand sectors include:

• Information Technology (developers, engineers, data specialists)

• Renewable energy and green tech

• Life sciences and pharmaceuticals

• Education and healthcare

• Engineering and construction

Work Culture

Swedish workplaces are collaborative and non-hierarchical. Expect first-name communication, strong team ethics, and a focus on work-life balance.The standard working week is about 40 hours, with at least 25 days of paid holiday per year. Parental leave is generous — parents can share up to 480 days of paid leave per child.

Learning Swedish improves job prospects significantly, but many multinational firms (especially in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö) operate in English.Reloux clients relocating for work often use our corporate relocation service, which supports both household moves and professional onboarding.

9. The 6 Best Cities to Live and Work in Sweden

1. Stockholm

Sweden’s capital combines historic charm with cutting-edge innovation. It’s the hub for tech, finance, and media — home to companies like Spotify and Ericsson.Pros: Excellent jobs, international schools, vibrant culture.Cons: Highest cost of living and competitive housing.Reloux operates frequent UK–Stockholm removals with direct delivery to the city and surrounding suburbs.

2. Gothenburg (Göteborg)

Located on the west coast, Gothenburg blends industry with culture. Volvo, SKF, and AstraZeneca are major employers.Pros: Friendly atmosphere, coastal living, great food scene.Cons: Rainier climate, smaller expat community than Stockholm.

3. Malmö

Modern and multicultural, Malmö is connected to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge. It’s ideal for those who want to live in Sweden but work across the border.Pros: Affordable housing, international vibe, strong sustainability focus.Cons: Smaller job market compared to the capital.

4. Uppsala

A beautiful university city just 40 minutes from Stockholm. Uppsala offers a quieter lifestyle with a rich academic and research scene.Pros: Great schools, family-friendly, strong community spirit.Cons: Limited nightlife, smaller expat base.

5. Lund

A hub for science, research, and technology in southern Sweden.Pros: Academic excellence, tech opportunities, charming old town.Cons: Limited housing supply; smaller city feel.

6. Umeå

Perfect for those who love nature and northern life. Umeå is affordable, safe, and offers long summer days and snowy winters.Pros: Lower costs, access to wilderness, vibrant student culture.Cons: Cold winters and darker days in midwinter.

No matter which city you choose, Reloux® can coordinate your removal to any Swedish destination with door-to-door service and full local delivery support.

10. Facts & Demographics About Sweden

Understanding your new home helps you settle faster. Here are some key insights:

• Population: ~10.5 million

• Capital: Stockholm

• Official Language: Swedish (English widely spoken)

• Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)

• Government: Constitutional monarchy with parliamentary democracy

• EU Membership: Yes (since 1995), but Sweden retains its own currency

• Size: 450,000 sq km (larger than the UK)

• Forests: Cover ~70% of the country

• Life Expectancy: 82 years

• Internet Penetration: 98% (Sweden is one of the most digital nations globally)

Sweden’s economy is strong, driven by innovation and sustainability. The country ranks among the world’s top nations for education, healthcare, safety, and gender equality.Most expats comment on Sweden’s cleanliness, efficient systems, and respectful social culture — a perfect match for families and professionals alike.

11. Infographic UK to Sweden Moving Statistics

UK to Sweden Moving Facts 2025 – At a Glance

Statistic	Data
Average household move cost	£2,000–£7,000
Popular destinations	Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö
Average transit time	7- 17 Days
Avg. shipment size	15–30 cubic metres
Annual UK→Sweden relocations	~6,000 households
Main reasons for moving	Work (48%), Family (22%), Lifestyle (18%)
British expats in Sweden	~25,000 residents
Average rent in Stockholm (1-bed)	~13,000 SEK/month (£1,000)
Cost of living vs UK	~10–15% higher overall

12. FAQ – Moving to Sweden from the UK

Do I need a visa to live in Sweden?

Yes. UK citizens now need a residence permit for long-term stays. Most apply for a work, family, or study permit through the Swedish Migration Agency.

How much does it cost to move to Sweden from the UK?

Average costs range from £1700–£2,300 for small moves (a few boxes) to £2,400–£7,500 for full household moves. Prices vary by distance, volume, and services like packing or storage.

What documents are required for customs?

• Passport

• Proof of residence in Sweden (rental contract, registration)

• Detailed inventory list

• Transfer of Residence (ToR) declarationReloux manages this process for you to ensure smooth, duty-free import.

Can I bring my car to Sweden?

Yes — but you must register it locally within 12 months. Reloux provides guidance on car shipping and registration with Swedish authorities.

Is healthcare free in Sweden?

Public healthcare is subsidised and excellent. Residents pay small fees per visit (approx. £15–30) with annual spending caps for affordability.

Do I need to learn Swedish?

You can get by with English, but learning Swedish will help socially and professionally. Free or subsidised language courses (SFI – Swedish for Immigrants) are widely available.

How long does shipping take?

Typical door-to-door removals to Sweden take 7–14 days.Reloux’s scheduling team provides precise delivery dates before transport begins.

Is Sweden safe?

Yes. Sweden ranks as one of Europe’s safest nations, with low crime rates and very high trust in public services.

Can Reloux help with storage or temporary accommodation?

Absolutely. Reloux offers short- and long-term storage in both the UK and Sweden, plus assistance with local relocation logistics.

13. Why Choose Reloux for Your Move to Sweden

At Reloux®, we don’t just move boxes — we move lives.Every relocation is handled with precision, care, and personal attention from start to finish.

When you choose Reloux for your move to Sweden, you get:

• Weekly removals services from the UK to all major Swedish destinations

• Dedicated part-load and full-load options

• Export-standard packing and door-to-door delivery

• Expert customs clearance support

• Secure storage solutions in the UK and Europe

• Friendly, multilingual relocation advisors to guide you through every step

Reloux’s experience in European and Scandinavian relocations ensures your journey to Sweden is efficient, compliant, and completely stress-free.

14. Conclusion – Start Your Sweden Move Today

Moving to Sweden is more than a change of address — it’s the beginning of a new lifestyle surrounded by clean air, nature, and opportunity.With the right planning and a trusted moving partner like Reloux®, your transition can be smooth, safe, and even enjoyable.

Whether you’re relocating to Stockholm’s urban buzz, Gothenburg’s coastline, or Sweden’s serene north, Reloux ensures every step of your move is handled professionally.

Start your journey today — request your free removals quote to Sweden from Reloux® and let our experts make your Scandinavian relocation seamless.