Relocating to another country is never just about transporting furniture. It’s a life-changing step — a fresh start that brings new opportunities but also countless organizational challenges. Especially when moving outside the EU, such as to Ukraine, having a reliable and experienced partner by your side is essential.

International Moving Expertise Since 1998

For more than 25 years, Geschwandtner GmbH has specialized in international relocations, with a clear focus on quality, transparency, and personal support. Whether you are an individual, a family, or a business, we assist you with your move to Ukraine or relocation back to Austria — managing every detail, from customs clearance to packing, storage, and furniture assembly at your new home.

Why Choose Geschwandtner GmbH for Your Move to Ukraine?

Our strength lies in the combination of long-standing experience, empathy, and efficient logistics. As an ISO 9001-certified moving company, we work with our own professional teams and a strong network of international partners. This ensures that your relocation is smooth, secure, and carefully planned.

Our Services at a Glance:

• Professional packing, transport, and unpacking
• Customs handling and documentation for non-EU moves
• Secure short- and long-term storage options
• Assembly and setup of furniture at your destination
• Personal consultation and transparent communication throughout the process

Stress-Free Relocation Across Borders

An international move doesn’t have to be stressful. With Geschwandtner GmbH, you can rely on a partner that has been supporting clients with relocations to Ukraine and back to Austria for over 25 years. Our goal is simple: to make your move as smooth, safe, and hassle-free as possible.

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Preparing for a Move to Ukraine – What You Need to Know

Relocating to Ukraine is very different from moving within the EU. Careful preparation is key to avoiding unnecessary costs, delays, or legal complications. Starting early with the planning process will make your relocation much smoother and more predictable.

Key Considerations Before Moving to Ukraine

1. Residence Status

Depending on the purpose of your stay (e.g., work, studies, family reunification), different legal requirements apply.

2. Visa and Residence Permit

Austrian citizens require a visa or residence permit for long-term stays in Ukraine. Make sure to check the latest requirements well in advance.

3. Housing Search

The housing market varies greatly between cities like Kyiv, Lviv, or Odesa. Local real estate agents or online platforms can be helpful in finding suitable accommodation.

4. Important Documents

Essential documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and professional qualifications should be translated and, if necessary, certified or notarized.

5. Language Preparation

Basic knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian can make daily life significantly easier, especially when dealing with local authorities, landlords, or service providers.

How Geschwandtner GmbH Supports You

Our relocation consultants assist you right from the preparation phase. We provide:

• Checklists tailored to your situation
• Translation services for official documents
• Trusted local partner contacts in Ukraine
• A realistic timeline for every step of your move

With more than 25 years of expertise in international relocations, we make sure that your move to Ukraine is well-prepared, stress-free, and legally compliant.

Customs and Import Regulations When Moving to Ukraine

What Can You Bring – and What Is Restricted?

Since Ukraine is not a member of the European Union, special customs regulations apply. Anyone relocating with their household goods must present a complete and detailed inventory list, ideally translated into Ukrainian or English.

✅ Items That Are Allowed

• Personal household goods such as furniture, clothing, books, and electronics
• Used items in typical household quantities
• One personal vehicle, provided it is for private use

⚠️ Restricted or Prohibited Items

• Alcohol (small amounts permitted, e.g., 1 liter of spirits)
• Tobacco products (up to 200 cigarettes)
• Weapons, ammunition, and hazardous substances (strictly prohibited)
• Food items and plants (restricted or prohibited depending on type)

Our customs department ensures smooth registration of your belongings and handles direct communication with the authorities.

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When Is a Duty-Free Move Possible?

A duty-free relocation is possible if you are permanently moving your main residence to Ukraine. The following documents are required:

• Deregistration in Austria
• Registration in Ukraine (proof of residence)
• Proof that the move is for private purposes
• A written declaration that the imported goods will not be sold

The entire process is handled in close cooperation with the responsible customs offices. From preparing the inventory list to the final customs clearance, we support you every step of the way.

Why Choose Geschwandtner GmbH?
With more than 25 years of expertise in international moving, our team ensures compliance with all customs and import regulations. We combine experience, legal know-how, and efficient logistics so your move to Ukraine is safe, stress-free, and legally compliant.

How Much Does a Move to Ukraine Cost?

The cost of moving from Austria to Ukraine depends heavily on the size of your household, the distance, the services required, and the customs process. Below are some general guidelines to help you plan your budget.

Average Price Ranges for Moving to Ukraine

• Small moves (1–2 rooms, without special services): starting from approx. €2,500
• Medium moves (3–4 rooms, including packing and customs services): approx. €4,000–6,000
• Large moves (entire household, full-service including furniture assembly and storage): from approx. €7,000

Key Factors That Influence Moving Costs

1. Volume of goods – measured in cubic meters of your belongings
2. Distance – e.g., Vienna to Lviv is less expensive than Innsbruck to Odesa
3. Additional services – such as packing, furniture lift, disassembly, and reassembly
4. Storage – before or after transport if needed
5. Customs clearance – paperwork and administrative requirements outside the EU

At Geschwandtner GmbH, you receive a personalized quote after a free on-site inspection – written, binding, and with no hidden costs.

Cost-Effective Storage Solutions – Flexible and Secure

Moving dates don’t always line up perfectly. In many cases, household goods need to be stored temporarily — sometimes for just a few days, sometimes for several months. At Geschwandtner GmbH, we provide flexible, secure, and insured storage solutions tailored to your needs.

Our Storage Options at a Glance

• Short-term storage – available from just one week, ideal for short delays between move-out and move-in.
• Long-term storage – for several months or even years, for example during extended stays abroad.
• Storage locations – modern warehouses in Austria (e.g., Vienna, Linz, Graz) and Western Ukraine (e.g., Lviv).
• Security – access control, alarm systems, video surveillance, and climate-controlled rooms upon request.
• Insurance coverage – protection against fire, water, theft, and transport damage.

From Pickup to Delivery – Stress-Free Service
Our professional teams will pick up your furniture directly from your home, pack it safely if required, and store it under optimal conditions. When the time is right — whether two weeks or two years later — we deliver and reassemble your belongings in your new home.

Moving to Ukraine with Family – Ensuring a Smooth Start

An international move is always a challenge, but for families it can be especially demanding. Children must adapt to a new environment, leave friends behind, and navigate an unfamiliar school system. Even pets experience stress during relocation. That’s why we carefully plan every detail together with you.

Schools, Kindergarten, and Everyday Life

• International schools – In Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa, there are numerous international schools offering classes in English, German, or French.
• Ukrainian schools – Public schools are free of charge, but lessons are usually only in Ukrainian.
• Kindergartens – Both public and private daycare centers are available, many offering bilingual programs.
• Leisure activities – Sports clubs, music lessons, and language courses are excellent ways for children to integrate and make new friends.

👉 We assist you in selecting, enrolling, and integrating into the right institutions, including the translation and certification of all required documents.

Relocating with Pets

• Required documents and vaccinations: microchip, EU pet passport, valid rabies vaccination, and a veterinary health certificate.
• Transport options: climate-controlled trucks with short breaks, dedicated pet transport, or air travel.
• Support and care: We cooperate with veterinarians, transport providers, and customs authorities to make the journey as comfortable and safe as possible for your pets.

How Long Does a Move Between Ukraine and Austria Take?

The duration of an international relocation depends on several factors — including the service level, the distance, and the chosen mode of transport. Having a realistic timeline helps you plan your move with confidence.

Possible Timeframes for Your Move

• Direct move (approx. 3–6 days) – The fastest option, ideal for larger household moves or when tight deadlines apply.
• Groupage transport (approx. 7–14 days) – Cost-effective for smaller shipments, where your goods are transported together with other loads.
• Move with storage – Flexible delivery based on your schedule, thanks to secure short- and long-term storage solutions.
• Express service (within 48–72 hours) – Available on request for urgent relocations.

Please note: During entry into Ukraine or upon return to Austria, customs clearance may add an extra 1–3 business days to the timeline.

Working in Ukraine – Opportunities and Requirements

For many expats, relocating to Ukraine is not only about living but also about building a career. In recent years, the economic situation in many regions has stabilized, especially in cities such as Lviv and Kyiv, making Ukraine an attractive destination for skilled professionals.

Popular Sectors for Expats

• IT and software development
• Logistics, freight forwarding, and import/export
• Tourism and hospitality
• Language teaching (English, German, etc.)
• Remote work for European or international companies

What You Need to Work Legally in Ukraine

• Work visa – Required for all foreigners who wish to work legally in Ukraine. In most cases, the employer applies for it on your behalf.
• Residence permit – Often granted in combination with a permanent job contract.
• Tax advisory services – To avoid double taxation, we strongly recommend professional advice tailored to your situation.
• Networking – Platforms like LinkedIn, XING, or local business events can be extremely valuable for finding jobs and building professional contacts.

With the right preparation and documentation, working in Ukraine can open up exciting opportunities — whether in fast-growing industries like IT or through flexible remote work options for international employers.

Returning to Austria – The Way Back Home

Some expats decide to move back to Austria after several years abroad. Just like the relocation to Ukraine, the return process requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition.

Key Steps When Returning to Austria

• Re-import of household goods – In many cases, this can be duty-free if you provide your original inventory list.
• Re-registration of residence – Must be completed within 3 days at the local registration authority.
• Health insurance & social security – Rejoining the Austrian public system (e.g., ÖGK) is usually straightforward.
• Vehicle re-registration – Cars must be registered with the Austrian road traffic authority. If modifications have been made, a technical inspection (Typisierung) may be required.
• Children & schools – Support with school selection, recognition of foreign certificates, and language assistance if needed.

Just as with outbound moves, we assist with customs clearance, storage, and transportation to make your return to Austria stress-free.

Cost of Living in Ukraine – Affordable and Attractive

For retirees, freelancers, and digital nomads, Ukraine offers an excellent price-to-value ratio. Many everyday expenses are significantly lower compared to Austria, making it easier to maintain a high standard of living at a lower cost.

Cost of Living Comparison – Kyiv vs. Austria

Expense	Ukraine (Kyiv)	Austria
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	€250–€400 / month	€700–€1,000 / month
Groceries (weekly)	€25–€50	€60–€100
Public transport (monthly pass)	€8–€12	€40–€60
Internet	€5–€10	€25–€40
Restaurant (per person)	€6–€10	€15–€30

👉 Services such as handyman work, cleaning, or taxis are also much cheaper in Ukraine.
⚠️ However, international goods like branded products or Western pharmaceuticals can be equally expensive—or even more costly—than in Austria.

Insurance for Your Move – Protection for Your Belongings

Moving abroad can be stressful, and unexpected problems like transport damage, loss, or delays can occur. Protect your valuables with our customized moving insurance packages tailored to your needs.

Our International Moving Insurance Options:

• Basic Coverage: Included in every quote – covers damages caused by gross negligence. Perfect for budget-conscious movers.
• Transport Insurance: Reimburses the current value or replacement value of lost or damaged items. Ideal for protecting valuable household goods.
• All-Risk Insurance: Comprehensive coverage against almost all risks, including natural disasters, theft, and transport damage. Provides peace of mind for a worry-free move.

Our experienced team is here to help you choose the best insurance package for your international move. Get your free quote today and ensure your belongings are fully protected!

Protect your belongings during your international move with our tailored moving insurance packages. Choose from Basic, Transport, or All-Risk coverage for peace of mind.

Your Trusted Partner for Moving Between Ukraine and Austria

Moving to Ukraine or returning to Austria is a big decision – but you don’t have to do it alone. Geschwandtner GmbH supports you with experience, precision, and understanding. From the first consultation to the final assembled screw, we are by your side every step of the way.

Whether you’re moving with family, pets, or as an individual, we have the right solution tailored to your needs.

Get Your Free Consultation Today:
We provide a personalized quote, including an on-site or online inspection. Contact us now – we look forward to helping you!

Professional moving services between Ukraine and Austria. Family, pets, or individual moves – get a personalized quote with Geschwandtner GmbH today