Relocating To Germany? How To Move 3 Restricted Items
Moving abroad is a fantastic experience, and Germany is a great place to live. Whether you're moving for business or just because you want to live there, it will be worth the effort that you'll have to put into the move. However, it will take some effort – moving an entire household overseas is not an easy task. And as if packing up all your furniture and household goods for shipping wasn't enough, you'll have to contend with your new country's rules about certain restricted items, like guns, plants, and pets. Take a look at some of Germany's rules about these items so that you know what to expect.
Guns
It probably comes as no surprise to you that guns are a restricted item. In order to bring most guns into Germany, you will need prior authorization and a license, and of course you'll have to declare the guns at Customs when you arrive in Germany.
There are a few exceptions. Some weapons, like any fully automatic firearm, are banned entirely, so you won't be able to bring them into the country at all. There are also guns that don't require any special prior authorization, like air guns and paintball guns. If you do plan to bring guns with you when you make your move, you should contact the German embassy or consulate closest to where you live as early as possible to begin the authorization and licensing process. Also, it's a good idea to read up on the German gun laws that will apply to you while you're living in the country.
Plants
Moving plants overseas is tricky to begin with. You may be able to take a few small houseplants on a plane with you, assuming that they're carefully wrapped and don't violate TSA guidelines. However, larger plants won't be allowed, and most houseplants are not going to survive being shipped with the rest of your belongings. Mailing plants overseas can also be expensive and complicated. It's usually best to take seeds or cuttings from your favorite plants and bring those with you to plant at your new home.
Even seeds and cuttings will have some restrictions. You will need to contact the German Customs Office to find out if your plants will be allowed. You will not be allowed to bring in plants that may be dangerous to Germany's native flora and fauna. Also, any plants that you do bring in will be inspected for signs of disease or parasites.
Pets
Most dogs, cats, and ferrets are welcome in Germany, but you will have to make some preparations. Your pet will need a certified rabies shot within the year before you make your move. Your pet will also need a microchip so that it can be tracked if it's ever lost. If it's a dog that's moving with you, check with the German consulate to make sure that it's not a prohibited breed. Most average-sized dogs are allowed in Germany, but there are certain breeds considered too dangerous to allow, like pit bull terriers.
You'll also need a health certificate filled out by your vet and dated no more than ten days before you leave the country. And you should be sure to notify the airline that you'll be bringing an animal on the flight. You should buy a carrier large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in for the flight. Buy this in advance so that you can acclimatize your pet to the container.
Your international moving company, someone like Hollander Storage & Moving, might be a good resource if you're having trouble figuring out what items are restricted and what you have to do to bring a specific item with you when moving abroad.