Removals Spain-UK: Costa del Sol Relocation & Return

Moving from the UK to Spain’s sun-soaked Costa del Sol—or making the reverse move back to the UK—can be a fulfilling lifestyle change. But beyond the excitement of a warmer climate and new surroundings, this kind of relocation involves careful planning, especially in the post-Brexit era. In this guide, we cover everything from international removal services and sample pricing to the paperwork you’ll need when relocating to Spain or returning to the UK, plus important insights into climate, cost of living, and what retirees moving to Spain after Brexit should know. Whether you’re arranging removals to Spain, removals from Spain to the UK, or simply considering making the move yourself, this post will help you plan with confidence.

Our UK–Costa del Sol Removal Services

Nationwide Coverage: MyCheapRemovals operates throughout the entire UK, meaning we can collect your belongings from any location in the UK at no extra charge. With a fleet of over 50 vans and lorries constantly on the move across Britain and Europe, there are no added costs for reaching even remote areas. Whether you’re in London, Manchester, Glasgow or anywhere in between, we’ve got you covered.

Flexible Volume Options: We offer a range of part-load and full-load services to suit moves of all sizes. Available volume options include 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 cubic meters, accommodating everything from small apartment moves to full household relocations. Part-load options (5m³, 10m³, 15m³) are shared services – a cost-effective choice for smaller moves – while 20m³ and 30m³ give you a dedicated vehicle for larger moves. (Dedicated full loads also let you choose exact pickup dates, whereas part loads may require a flexible 3-day collection window.)

Fast, Frequent Service: Thanks to daily routes and an in-house logistics network, removals to Spain are swift. A dedicated full-load from the UK to Costa del Sol can arrive in as little as 3 days, since the van goes straight to your delivery address[7]. Part-load shipments (where van space is shared) might take up to 5 days to allow for multiple pickups/drop-offs. We continuously track our vehicles, so even if you share a load, you can receive updates on your shipment’s progress at any time. Regular schedules and efficient planning make our service one of the fastest options available.

Transparent Pricing: MyCheapRemovals prides itself on no hidden fees. All our instant quotes already include customs fees and taxes, so you won’t be caught out by surprise charges when moving between the UK and Spain. Ferry costs and fuel are included as well. The price you’re quoted is the final price, assuming the inventory and conditions provided are accurate. We even provide the first hour of the driver’s help with loading/unloading for free. This transparent approach, combined with our no-frills efficiency (no middlemen – just our team and fleet), makes us one of the most affordable international movers on the market.

Easy Quotes & Booking: You can get an instant removal quote online by entering your UK and Spain locations and the volume. It’s a no-obligation quote and will be emailed to you immediately. If you decide to proceed, booking is simple with only a 10% deposit required to secure your slot. Our customer service team is on hand to answer any questions and guide you through the process.

Example Removal Costs (UK ↔ Costa del Sol)

One of the most common questions is, “How much does it cost to move to (or from) Costa del Sol?” The answer depends on the distance and the volume of goods, but here we provide some example prices to give you a ballpark idea. Remember that with MyCheapRemovals, these prices already include all standard fees (customs, VAT, fuel, etc.) – what you see is what you pay.

• • London (UK) → Málaga (Costa del Sol) – aprox. 2,050 km road distance:
  – 5 m³ (or up to 300 kg) — Deposit: £104.9, Total: ~£1,049
  – 10 m³ (or up to 600 kg) — Deposit: £143.9, Total: ~£1,439
  – 15 m³ (or up to 1,200 kg) — Deposit: £236.9, Total: ~£2,369
  – 20 m³ (or up to 1,500 kg) — Deposit: £317.9, Total: ~£3,179
  – 30 m³ (or up to 2,400 kg) — Deposit: £381.9, Total: ~£3,819
  These guide prices show that a small move (up to 5 cubic meters, ~300 kg) from London to Málaga can be under £1,000, while a full household move (30 m³) is around £3.5k. The part-load options are especially cost-effective if you don’t have enough items to fill a whole truck.
• Manchester (UK) to Costa del Sol – If you’re moving from Northern England, costs are similarly affordable. For example, a move from Manchester to southern Spain—specifically to the Costa del Sol region via Málaga—entails only a modest increase compared with London due to the additional distance. We have gathered the following current quotes: 5 m³ (or up to 300 kg) – ~£1,149; 10 m³ (or up to 600 kg) – ~£1,579; 15 m³ (or up to 1,200 kg) – ~£2,609; 20 m³ (or up to 1,500 kg) – ~£3,529; 30 m³ (or up to 2,400 kg) – ~£4,169. With our extensive network, we optimise routes to keep prices low regardless of your UK departure point.
• Removals from Costa del Sol to the UK – We also handle return journeys for expats moving back. Prices from Spain to the UK remain highly competitive. For example, a part-load from Málaga to London now starts at around £1,059 for 5 m³ (up to 300 kg). Larger moves are equally cost-efficient — 10 m³ (up to 600 kg) is around £1,419, 15 m³ (up to 1,200 kg) about £2,359, 20 m³ (up to 1,500 kg) roughly £3,229, and 30 m³ (up to 2,400 kg) approximately £3,869. These figures serve as reliable indicators, but for a precise quote on your specific route — whether it’s Marbella to Manchester or Fuengirola to Birmingham — use our instant quote tool for the most accurate, real-time pricing.

All these examples illustrate that moving to or from Costa del Sol can be quite affordable, especially with part-load services. By sharing the vehicle space with other customers, you significantly cut costs. Plus, no additional surcharges for fuel or customs mean the quote covers door-to-door service, giving you peace of mind about your budget. (Note: Always double-check current rates with our quote system or team, as fuel prices and other factors can cause slight changes. The above examples are current as of the latest updates.)

Post-Brexit Paperwork: Required Documents for Moving

International removals now involve customs clearance since the UK left the EU. Don’t worry – moving your personal belongings is absolutely doable, but there are several documents you’ll need to prepare to satisfy UK/EU customs requirements. MyCheapRemovals will guide you through the paperwork and even provide certain forms needed for Spain. Here’s what you should have ready:

• Inventory List of Goods: A detailed, signed inventory of everything you’re moving is essential. This list should include the number of items or boxes, an estimated volume and weight of each, and an estimated value of each item (and total value of the shipment)[27]. You should also add a declaration that all goods are your personal belongings and over 6 months old (this helps qualify for duty-free import as used household goods). Make sure to date and sign this inventory – it can be a physical or electronic signature, with a scanned copy submitted if needed.
• Photocopy of Passport/ID: Customs will require proof of identity. A copy of your passport (photo page) or national ID card is used to verify who is shipping the goods. This should match the name of the person moving.
• Proof of New Address in Spain: To import your household goods into Spain (Costa del Sol), you need to show you have a place to live there. Acceptable documents include a rental contract, property purchase deed, or even a recent utility bill or bank statement in Spain with your name and address. Essentially, this proves these goods are moving to your new residence in Spain. (If moving from Spain back to the UK, you’d provide proof of your UK address instead.)
• Proof of Previous Address (UK): Similarly, customs may ask for evidence of your old residence in the UK for the last 12+ months. This can be a Council Tax bill, utility bills spanning 12 months, or other official documents like an employer’s letter or tax returns showing your UK address. This helps confirm you lived outside Spain (or outside the EU) and are now transferring your personal items under the transfer-of-residence rules.
• Non-Cession Declaration: We will provide a “non-cession document” for you to sign. This simply declares that you are not selling your goods and that they remain your property during the move. It’s a standard formality to reassure customs that these are personal possessions, not commercial exports/imports.
• Any Specific Spanish Customs Forms: Spain may have its own forms (such as an application for duty-free import of personal effects). MyCheapRemovals will supply all necessary Spanish customs forms and help you fill them out. Our team stays up-to-date on current regulations, so if there’s a Declaration of Responsibility or other post-Brexit paperwork required, we’ve got it ready for you.

Getting these documents in order might seem daunting, but preparation is key. By organising your inventory and paperwork in advance, you’ll speed up the customs process and avoid delays. Our experienced staff is here to assist with any questions – we’ve helped many customers navigate the new rules since Brexit, so don’t hesitate to lean on our expertise. Bottom line: if you have the above documents ready, your treasured belongings will clear customs and arrive at your Costa del Sol home (or back in the UK) without a hitch.

(For a deeper dive into the customs process, see our Terms & Conditions and moving guides. But in a nutshell, the listed documents are what you’ll need – and we’ll walk you through them as part of our service.)

Costa del Sol’s Sunny Climate vs. UK Weather

One of the biggest attractions of the Costa del Sol is undoubtedly its glorious climate. The name literally means “Coast of the Sun,” and it lives up to it – the region boasts over 300 days of sunshine per year. This is a dramatic change for anyone moving from the UK, which is famous for grey skies and rain. So what can you expect weather-wise when relocating from Britain to the Costa del Sol?

• Mild, Short Winters: Winters in southern Spain are very mild compared to the UK. For example, the average daily high in Málaga in January is around 16–18°C, with nighttime lows around 7–10°C (climechart.com). In London, by contrast, January averages a chilly 4–7°C with frequent frost. Snow is virtually unheard of on the Costa del Sol’s coast (mountain areas aside) – Malaga gets 0 mm of snow on average, whereas the UK often sees winter flurries. You can leave behind the heavy winter coat; many British expats are delighted to spend December days in light jackets or shirtsleeves in Spain’s south.
• Long, Sunny Summers: Summers are hot and dry on the Costa del Sol, with average highs in July and August around 30°C (and often reaching mid-30s). The UK’s summer, in contrast, might peak around 20–25°C on a warm day. The sunshine hours tell the story: Málaga enjoys about 10–13 hours of sunshine per day in summer, whereas London might get 6–8 hours. Beach weather is practically guaranteed in Spain – perfect for those looking forward to swimming in the Mediterranean or enjoying outdoor dining in the evenings.
• Overall Sunshine & Rainfall: Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, the Costa del Sol not only gets more sun, but it also sees far less rain. Málaga’s annual rainfall is roughly 525 mm, mostly in a few moderate showers in autumn and early spring. London, by comparison, gets around 615 mm of rain and is spread over more days. In practical terms, you’ll swap the UK’s frequent drizzle for Spain’s mostly dry air. It’s common to go weeks in Costa del Sol without any rain, especially in summer. When it does rain, it tends to be short-lived. No wonder outdoor living is a way of life in southern Spain!
• Health and Lifestyle Benefits: The climate is a major reason British retirees flock to Costa del Sol. The year-round warmth and higher humidity can actually provide health benefits – many retirees report relief from arthritis and joint pains in the milder climate[2]. The abundant sunshine can boost mood and vitamin D levels. You’ll likely find yourself spending far more time outdoors – whether it’s a morning stroll on the promenade, a round of golf in winter, or simply enjoying coffee on the terrace. The sun-kissed lifestyle is a refreshing change from the indoor life forced by Britain’s weather.

In summary, moving to the Costa del Sol means trading umbrellas for sunglasses. Over 300 sunny days a year means you can plan barbecues, beach days, and outdoor meet-ups with friends without checking the forecast every hour. Just remember, you may need to adjust to the summer heat (most homes have air conditioning, and the sea breeze helps). And when you do miss the occasional cosy rainy day, the UK is just a short flight away 😉. Overall, the climate difference is one of the most delightful aspects of relocating to Spain’s southern coast – it’s like an extended holiday that never ends, weather-wise.

Cost of Living Comparison: Costa del Sol vs the UK

Another key consideration – especially for retirees on a fixed income or families relocating – is the cost of living. The good news is that southern Spain is significantly more affordable than the UK in most aspects of day-to-day life. Here’s a look at how living costs differ:

• Overall Costs: On average, living in Spain is about 20–35% cheaper than living in the UK(expatra.com). This broad figure (from a 2025 cost-of-living analysis) encapsulates various expenses from housing to groceries. In practical terms, your pound stretches much further in Costa del Sol. Many expats find they can maintain or even improve their quality of life while spending less each month.
• Housing: Accommodation is typically the biggest expense, and it’s notably lower in Spain. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a Costa del Sol city like Málaga might cost ~€800 (£690) per month in the city centre, or even less (~€600/£520) outside the centre. In contrast, a similar one-bed flat in a UK city can easily be £1,000+ in rent. In fact, statistics show renting in Spain can be 25-35% cheaper than in the UK for comparable properties. If you’re buying, property prices per square meter are generally lower as well (though hotspots like Marbella have luxury pricing, there are plenty of affordable towns along the coast – sunnycoast-homes.com). Overall, housing eats up a smaller portion of the budget under the Spanish sun.
• Groceries and Dining: Day-to-day groceries in Spain cost less, especially local products. Staples like fresh produce, bread, wine, and olive oil are inexpensive (Spain is a major producer of fruits, veggies, and olive oil). According to expat data, grocery bills are about 20-30% lower in Spain than in the UK. For example, a basket of groceries that might cost £50 in the UK could be more like £35–£40 in Spain. Dining out is also a bargain: a set lunch menu (“menú del día”) can be €10-€15, and a nice dinner out is often £10-£20 per person, which is considerably less than in Britain. Even enjoying a glass of wine or a pint on a terrace is cheaper – Spanish restaurant prices for beer and wine tend to be lower due to lower alcohol duty and plentiful local supply.
• Utilities and Transport: These are areas where Spain really shines in savings. Utilities (electricity, water, heating) for an apartment are roughly 50% cheaper in Spain than in the UK on average. The mild winters mean less heating cost, and overall energy prices tend to be lower. Public transportation is also very affordable: city bus or train fares are modest, and there are discounts for seniors. A monthly public transport pass in Málaga might be around €40 (£35), whereas in a UK city it could be double that. Petrol (gasoline) and diesel are generally cheaper in Spain too (MyCheapRemovals – Edinburgh vs Malaga) – a plus if you plan to keep a car for exploring. Also, many towns are walkable and bike-friendly, potentially saving on transport costs altogether.
• Healthcare: If you’re retiring, note that Spain’s healthcare is high-quality and free or low-cost for residents (with an S1 form, UK pensioners can access Spanish public healthcare). Even private insurance is often cheaper than UK private insurance. Many expats are pleasantly surprised at how affordable medications and treatments can be. This isn’t a direct cost-of-living “consumer” expense, but it certainly affects retirees’ budgets positively.
• Lifestyle and Entertainment: Enjoying life on the Costa del Sol can be done on a budget. Many of the best things – beach days, mountain hikes, local festivals – are free! But even paid activities like golf or museum visits often have discounts for seniors or residents. Eating out frequently won’t break the bank as it might in the UK. A movie ticket might cost €7 in Spain versus £12 in the UK. A local beer might be €2 in a Spanish café versus £4-5 in a British pub. These small differences add up and mean you can have an active social life for less money.

To put it in perspective: a comfortable monthly budget for a retired couple in the Costa del Sol might be around £1,500 to £2,500 (approximately €1,700–€2,800), including rent, utilities, food, transport, and leisure. In the UK, many find they would need significantly more to maintain the same standard of living. Of course, individual lifestyles vary – Marbella’s upscale dining will cost more than a quiet village café – but the general trend is clear. Everyday living costs less in Spain, allowing many expats to enjoy a higher quality of life or save more of their pension.

Bottom line: The Costa del Sol not only offers sunshine, but also savings. Lower expenses on housing, food, and bills mean you can make the most of your retirement or remote-working income. When planning your move, this is a huge plus – your moving costs might be offset within months by the money you save while living in Spain! It’s yet another reason so many people are drawn to make a new home in southern Spain.

Final Tips for a Smooth Move

Planning a move to (or from) the Costa del Sol involves a lot of pieces coming together, but with the right preparation, it can be a very smooth experience. Here are a few final tips and takeaways:

1. Plan Your Route and Timing: If possible, try to move outside of peak holiday seasons. Summer in Costa del Sol is the tourist high season, which can mean heavier traffic and booked ferries. Spring or autumn moves might go even faster. However, our services run year-round, so we’ll accommodate your schedule whenever you choose to move.
2. Use the Instant Quote & Book Early: Lock in your price with our instant quote system and consider booking a few weeks in advance. This ensures you get your preferred pickup date, especially for full-load moves where you can choose an exact date. Early booking also gives you more time to sort paperwork and packing.
3. Downsize and Inventory: Take the move as an opportunity to declutter. The less volume you ship, the cheaper your move can be (maybe you can fit into 5m³ instead of 10m³!). Make a thorough inventory as you pack – it’s needed for customs anyway, and it will help you organise your belongings. Label boxes clearly for easier unloading and setup in your new home.
4. Prepare Documents Ahead of Time: As discussed, get your passport copies, proof of addresses, and inventory list ready. Our team will remind you of any missing paperwork. Starting on this early means you won’t be scrambling at the last minute for a bank statement or a signature.
5. Enjoy the Journey: Relocating abroad is the start of a new adventure. If you’re moving to the Costa del Sol, you’re about to enjoy a fabulous climate, a relaxed lifestyle, and a vibrant expat community. If you’re moving back to the UK, you get to reunite with familiar surroundings and old friends. Either way, try to embrace the experience. We handle the heavy lifting (literally), so you can focus on settling into your new life.

Finally, remember that MyCheapRemovals is here to help at every step. From the moment you request a quote to the moment we deliver your last box, we aim to provide a stress-free, professional service. Our transparent pricing and dedicated support have earned us many happy customers who made the leap between the UK and Spain. Moving abroad is a big step, but with the right preparation and a reliable removal partner, it can be far less daunting.

Ready to make the move? Whether it’s sipping sangria under the Mediterranean sun or returning to the UK’s green pastures, we’re just one call (or click) away to get your relocation on track. Here’s to new beginnings and smooth removals! 🚚🌞