Moving from San Francisco to Europe? Here’s What You Need to Know
Why So Many SF Residents Move to Europe
San Francisco has always had a global mindset. From the hills of Pacific Heights to the entrepreneurial spirit of Silicon Valley, people in the Bay Area are often looking outward, toward opportunity, adventure, and connection. And for many, that means Europe.
Whether it’s relocating to Paris for work, retiring in the south of Spain, or joining family in Germany, more and more San Franciscans are making the leap across the Atlantic. In fact, over the last five years, we’ve seen a steady rise in Bay Area residents moving to countries like France, Portugal, the UK, and the Netherlands.
Why Europe? For some, it’s about reclaiming balance—escaping the breakneck pace of the tech world for a slower, more intentional lifestyle. For others, it’s the pull of cultural heritage, educational opportunity, or global career advancement. And of course, there are those who simply want a new adventure in a place that values public transit, long lunches, and weekend escapes to neighboring countries.
For residents of San Francisco, there’s an additional factor: the city’s international DNA. From Chinatown to the Mission, SF has always been a gateway to the world. It makes sense that so many would consider life overseas not a radical departure, but a natural progression.
Of course, making that transition is a big undertaking. International moves are complex, and moving from San Francisco presents its own unique challenges. That’s why SDC International Shipping is here—not just to move your belongings, but to guide you through every detail, decision, and destination.
Freight Options from San Francisco
When you’re relocating internationally, one of your first logistical decisions is how to ship your belongings. San Francisco offers both air and sea freight options, each with distinct pros and cons.
| Freight Type | Estimated Transit Time | Ideal For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 4–8 weeks | Full home moves, furniture, long lead times | $$$ (More Affordable) |
| Air Freight | 7–14 days | Essentials, time-sensitive items, partial moves | $$$$ (More Expensive) |
If you’re moving an entire household to a country like France or Germany, sea freight is typically your best option. It allows for containerized shipping—either as a dedicated 20ft/40ft container or shared space in a groupage consolidation.
Air freight is ideal for smaller shipments or essential items you’ll need upon arrival. It’s especially useful for those with short lead times or when moving ahead of the rest of the family.
SDC International Shipping operates through the Port of Oakland and San Francisco International Airport, giving you access to global freight networks from the heart of the Bay Area. We also offer door-to-port, port-to-door, and door-to-door options, depending on your needs and destination country regulations.
The key is to plan early. Freight scheduling can vary based on port congestion, carrier availability, and seasonal demand. That’s where our logistics team steps in—to reserve space, manage paperwork, and ensure your shipment arrives when you do.
Prepping for a Move: What SF Clients Often Forget
Moving internationally isn’t just about packing boxes—it’s about preparing your life for a whole new reality. We’ve found that even the most organized clients often forget a few key things in the chaos of relocating. Here are some common oversights:
Power Converters & Adapters
European countries use 220V electrical outlets, unlike the 110V standard in the U.S. Make sure to bring adapters for your devices, or consider leaving behind voltage-sensitive appliances.
Customs Paperwork
Many clients underestimate the documentation needed for customs clearance. SDC helps prepare detailed inventory lists, proof of residency changes, and any additional forms required by your destination country.
Insurance Coverage
Your homeowner’s policy doesn’t always apply overseas. We’ll walk you through SDC’s international moving insurance options so you can protect your valuables during transit.
Lease or Sale Overlap
You may need to vacate your home before you’re ready to leave the country. That’s why we offer secure local storage, as well as flexible staging and loading timelines.
Pets, Vehicles, and Personal Items
Moving with pets or shipping a car requires advanced planning. Rules vary widely across Europe, and we’ll help you navigate everything from documentation to carrier arrangements.
At SDC, we act as your relocation advisor, not just your mover. That means helping you think ahead—not just to the airport, but to your arrival overseas.
Why SDC is the Preferred Choice in the Bay Area
Relocating internationally from San Francisco is a major undertaking, but it doesn’t have to feel like one. When you choose SDC International Shipping, you’re not just hiring movers. You’re working with a team that understands the unique challenges of Bay Area living, and how to turn those challenges into smooth logistics.
From steep driveways in Bernal Heights to elevator bookings in SoMa high-rises, our teams are trained to navigate San Francisco’s tight corners and complex regulations. We understand the specific timing and access restrictions imposed by many local buildings, which is why our move coordinators work directly with building managers and HOAs to ensure everything goes according to plan.
We also know how to plan around tech-driven schedules. Many of our clients are engineers, executives, or startup founders who need efficient, no-fuss solutions. Our streamlined digital quoting process, live shipment tracking, and weekend service options are built for your pace and your expectations.
Additionally, our location and partnerships in the Bay Area allow us to offer:
- Short-notice pickups for last-minute relocations
- Secure storage solutions near SFO and Oakland for flexible departures
- Expertise with international documentation, including T1 forms and power-of-attorney authorization
And because we’ve helped so many others in your shoes, we can give you more than just logistics—we offer real insights. Need advice on shipping from San Francisco to Spain? Wondering if air freight is worth the investment? Looking for packing solutions for your high-value wine collection? We’ve got the answers.
Europe-Specific Customs & Cultural Tips
When you land in Europe, your experience will be shaped not only by the culture—but by the customs procedures at the border. Each country has its own rules, and understanding them ahead of time can save you stress and delays.
France
If you’re relocating to France, you’ll likely need to submit a Déclaration de non-cession, confirming your goods are not for resale. You’ll also need a signed inventory in French. SDC assists with all required paperwork, and you can learn more on our moving to France page.
Spain
Spain offers a more relaxed entry process, but you’ll still need a consular certificate or proof of long-term residence. Spain also requires that goods arrive within a window of your own entry into the country, so timing is key.
Portugal
Portugal is a favorite among retirees and digital nomads. It allows duty-free household imports for new residents but requires proof of residence and a list of goods translated into Portuguese. SDC’s multilingual team ensures your documentation meets these requirements.
Germany
Germany is strict about documentation and inventory precision. Every item must be accounted for, and duplicate entries can cause delays. We recommend reading our customs guide for Germany to prepare.
In addition to customs, it’s helpful to be aware of cultural differences:
- Appointment punctuality is more rigid in Germany than in Spain.
- Power outlets and plug types differ from country to country.
- Tipping etiquette varies, as does the use of English in service environments.
With SDC, you’ll get more than just a checklist—you’ll gain insight, strategy, and a relocation team that’s walked this road many times before.
Connect with an SF-Based Moving Specialist
Every move is personal—and yours should be planned with someone who understands not only the big picture, but the local landscape too.
When you call SDC International Shipping, you’ll be connected with a relocation expert familiar with San Francisco’s streets, buildings, and bureaucracy. From Nob Hill to the Sunset District, we’ve helped families, professionals, and students alike transition to new lives overseas.
Here’s what you can expect next:
- A friendly consultation (virtual or in-home) tailored to your availability
- A transparent quote that includes packing, customs, and freight options
- Support at every stage—from planning and crating to storage and tracking
We offer weekend pickup appointments, flexible timelines, and global coordination. Whether you’re relocating your home, sending a car, or just shipping essentials ahead of your move, we’re here to help.
👉 Schedule your free quote today or call us at 877-339-0267 to speak with a Bay Area international moving specialist.
Moving from San Francisco to Europe is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be a hard one. Let SDC guide the way, so you can focus on what’s next.
