Relocating to Portsmouth
Moving to Portsmouth from Canada, is a life shift full of excitement, planning, and some stress. Expect changes in culture and weather, of this sister city to Halifax, NS. Work and family priority changes will also impact you navigating this move. Here’s help for making the move… from the best time to be moving in, and on to when your household goods arrive in Portsmouth.
Late spring to early autumn (May through September) is a good target time frame. The UK, and particularly around Portsmouth, enjoys relatively mild and pleasant weather then. Travel, home searching, and settling in, are easier than when battling the damp, dark days of a British winter. Summer boosts demand for shipping and moving services, so advance booking is best. For lower shipping costs and more availability, move in late spring (May–June). It is typically warm, not in peak tourist season, allowing the smoothest transition.
International moves from Canada to Portsmouth via truck, train and sea freight combinations range from 4 to 8 weeks. Storage time is often added to help final occupancy arrangements. Your items will most likely arrive at Southampton (just 30 minutes from Portsmouth), or London Gateway where:
1) Customs clearance is completed. Everything remains in their control, dependent on work loads and your ToR1 (Transfer of Residence) application. It is required to import personal belongings duty and tax free on moving your primary residence to the UK. Submitting this form before your goods actually arrive avoids delays and extra processing and storage fees.
2) Move in day is arranged after customs release and delivery requirements confirmed. Portsmouth’s mix of historical and modern all connected by narrow lanes and highways. Older parts like Old Portsmouth and Southsea present their unique challenges. Temporary permits are arranged for street parking, doorway and stairwell access confirmed for older flats or homes,neighbors advised for shared access and the pick up from customs storage booked.
England’s second most densely populated city, has many participation options. Joining local Facebook groups or the vibrant expat community on line, before arrival, for a meaningful head start. The city is very walkable, with local buses and trains widely used. A ‘Solent Go’ travel helps with public transport.
Moving from Canada to Portsmouth is more than a change in scenery. Portsmouth’s lifestyle, history, maritime charm, amazing countryside, are all part of this compact, friendly coastal city. Planning, the timing of your move and delivery of your belongings, is key to your relocation being smooth and even enjoyable. Once you’re unpacked and the kettle’s on, the new life begins.
To make a call to Portsmouth
• Dial 011 (outside North America)
• Dial 44 (code for the UK)
• Dial 23 (Portsmouth area code)
• Dial local 8 digit phone number
In the UK use 999 for emergencies.