Moving to the Netherlands or moving abroad from the Netherlands: your trusted moving company with 30 years of experience

Experience That Counts – Geschwandtner GmbH

Moving to the Netherlands or relocating back to Austria is always an exciting step – whether for work, family, or personal reasons. To make this new chapter smooth and stress-free, you need a moving company with experience, organization, and reliability. This is where Geschwandtner GmbH comes in: for more than 30 years, we have specialized in international relocations and are among the top-rated moving companies in Austria.

Why choose us for your move to the Netherlands:

• TÜV ISO 9001 certified – highest quality standards
• Member of leading industry associations: IAM, FEDEMAC, ÖMTV
• Modern in-house truck fleet for international transport
• Tailor-made solutions: from full-service relocation to shared loads
• Personal consultation and all-inclusive service

With our expertise, we ensure that your relocation to or from the Netherlands is not only stress-free but also efficient, transparent, and cost-effective.

What to consider when moving between Austria and the Netherlands

Although Austria and the Netherlands are both EU member states, there are still some key differences to keep in mind when relocating. These affect bureaucracy, culture, and organization.

Bureaucratic differences

• The Netherlands is highly digitalized – from registering your residence to setting up insurance.
• Austria still requires more in-person visits to public offices, e.g., for registration requirements.
• Deadlines differ: in the Netherlands you usually must register your new address within 5 days, in Austria within 3 days.

Cultural aspects

• The Dutch are known for their directness – clear and straightforward communication is appreciated.
• Cycling plays a central role in daily life and often influences housing choices.
• Austria is more influenced by regional traditions, while the Netherlands tends to be more international and pragmatic.

Organization and planning

• In Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, housing is scarce – early planning is crucial.
• Parking and access permits for moving trucks often need to be arranged in advance.
• Different public holidays and work habits can impact scheduling.

As an experienced international moving company, Geschwandtner GmbH knows these differences well and takes care of the entire process for you – from applying for parking permits to coordinating with local authorities. This way, you save valuable time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Customs and Import Regulations: What Applies Within the EU?

One of the biggest advantages when moving from Austria to the Netherlands or vice versa: both countries are members of the European Union. This means there are no traditional customs procedures like with moves to non-EU countries. However, there are still clear rules you should be aware of.

The basics:

• Free movement of goods within the EU: furniture, household items, and personal belongings can be transported without customs duties.
• No customs declaration required as long as it is a private move.
• No VAT or import duties apply when relocating between EU member states.

Important exceptions:

Certain items are still subject to special regulations within the EU:

• Alcohol and tobacco – quantity restrictions remain in place.
• Pets – require valid EU pet passports and vaccinations (e.g., against rabies).
• Weapons, ammunition, and hazardous goods – strict reporting and transport requirements apply.
• Motor vehicles – must be registered in the new country and may need a technical inspection.

Our service advantage

With decades of practical experience, Geschwandtner GmbH knows the details of these regulations. We provide tailored advice, take care of all necessary formalities, and ensure your move is fully compliant and hassle-free.

Finding Housing in the Netherlands – Tips, Deadlines & Platforms

For many, finding an apartment in the Netherlands is the biggest challenge when relocating. Especially in major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and Rotterdam, demand is extremely high while supply is often limited. With the right preparation, however, you can greatly increase your chances.

Challenges in the Dutch housing market

• Housing shortage in metropolitan areas – waiting times of several months are not uncommon.
• High rental prices, especially in Amsterdam (average €20–25 per m²).
• Many apartments are rented furnished or semi-furnished, requiring additional flexibility.

Tips for a successful housing search

• Start early – ideally 6 months before your planned move.
• Consider neighboring towns with good train or bike connections.
• Prepare all necessary documents: proof of income, landlord reference, copy of your work contract.
• Be flexible with apartment size and location to increase opportunities.

Useful online platforms

• Pararius.nl – one of the largest rental housing platforms.
• Funda.nl – the leading portal for rentals and property sales.
• Kamernet.nl – specialized in shared flats and small apartments.
• Expatica Housing – tailored for expats and international professionals.

Moving Costs to the Netherlands

The costs of moving to the Netherlands or relocating back to Austria depend on several factors. There is no flat answer, but with a clear structure, the main cost drivers can be easily estimated.

Key cost factors

• Moving volume: The more furniture and boxes, the larger the truck and the higher the workload.
• Distance: Vienna–Amsterdam is very different from Graz–Eindhoven in terms of mileage and driving time.
• Additional services: Packing service, furniture assembly, storage, or special transports (e.g. piano).
• Apartment access: Narrow staircases, no elevator, or tight streets increase the effort.
• Scheduling flexibility: Flexible moving dates often reduce costs through shared or group transports.

Price examples (estimates)

• 1-room apartment (20–25 m³, Vienna → Rotterdam): from approx. €1,500–2,200
• 3-room apartment (40–50 m³, Linz → Amsterdam): from approx. €2,800–4,200
• Family house (80 m³+, Salzburg → Utrecht): from approx. €5,000 upwards

Money-saving tips

• Use groupage transport: Combining multiple moves significantly lowers costs.
• Do-it-yourself tasks: e.g. packing or dismantling furniture yourself.
• Plan early: Early inquiries usually mean better prices.
• Declutter before moving: Every piece of furniture less saves space and money.

Our quality promise

At Geschwandtner GmbH, customers always receive tailor-made offers with full cost transparency. No hidden fees, no unpleasant surprises. Thanks to our TÜV ISO 9001 certification and decades of experience in international moves, we guarantee the best price-performance ratio.

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Transport Options – Moving Truck, Shared Load & Combined Solutions

The actual transport is the heart of every move. Depending on volume, budget, and schedule, there are different ways to move your household goods from Austria to the Netherlands or vice versa.

1. Exclusive Moving Truck

• The entire truck is reserved only for your move.
• Ideal for large moves (families, full households).
• Advantage: Maximum flexibility in terms of timing and route.
• Disadvantage: Higher costs compared to shared or groupage transport.

2. Shared Load Transport (Groupage)

• Your belongings are combined with other transports.
• Perfect for smaller moves or partial shipments.
• Advantage: Much cheaper, as costs are shared.
• Disadvantage: Timing must be adjusted to groupage logistics.

3. Combined Transport Options

• Mix of a dedicated truck for the main part and shared load for additional items.
• Flexible solution when the moving volume changes.
• Ideal if additional furniture or boxes are added at short notice.

Why choose Geschwandtner GmbH

• Own modern truck fleet for international moves.
• Perfect planning by our dispatchers who create optimal routes and schedules.
• Flexible offers: from full-service moves to low-cost shared transport.
• Decades of experience, even with challenging conditions (narrow streets, city centers, special permits).

Thanks to this flexibility, we guarantee that your move to or from the Netherlands will be carried out exactly according to your needs – safe, reliable, and cost-efficient.

Moving with Family – Schools, Registration & Integration

A move to the Netherlands or back to Austria comes with special challenges for families. Besides transporting household goods, childcare, schooling, and integration need to be planned in advance.

Schools & Education System in the Netherlands

• Compulsory education: from age 5, although many children start at 4.
• Primary school (Basisschool): lasts 8 years, followed by secondary education.
• Secondary education: several levels (VMBO, HAVO, VWO) depending on a child’s performance and interests.
• Language of instruction: Dutch. For international families, there are international schools offering lessons in English or other languages.

Childcare & Kindergarten Places

• Many nurseries and kindergartens are privately organized – apply for places early.
• Costs vary depending on income, working hours, and institution.
• Government subsidies (Kinderopvangtoeslag) are available.

Integration & Language

• Special language support programs for children to learn Dutch quickly.
• Adults can attend integration and language courses.
• The Dutch are internationally oriented – English skills help with settling in.

Our Service for Families

At Geschwandtner GmbH, we know from experience that a family relocation means much more than just moving furniture from A to B. We support families with:

• Early registration for schools and childcare
• Guidance on international schools and daycare options
• Support with integration through local contacts

This way, your relocation becomes not only a logistical success, but also a positive family experience.

Bringing Your Car or Buying Locally? Vehicles & Driving Licenses

Many people moving to the Netherlands face the question: Should I bring my car, or is it better to buy a new vehicle locally? Both options have advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully considered.

Bringing Your Car – What to Keep in Mind

• Registration in the Netherlands: Vehicles must be registered with the RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer) within a few weeks.
• Vehicle tax (“Motorrijtuigenbelasting”) and insurance: Often significantly higher than in Austria.
• Technical inspection (APK): Similar to TÜV, mandatory at regular intervals.
• License plate change: Austrian license plates must be surrendered.

Buying a Car Locally – Advantages

• Vehicles are already adapted to Dutch standards.
• No extra effort for registration or modifications.
• Good selection of used cars and bikes, especially for expats and students.
• Financial planning is often simpler, as taxes and insurance are clearly regulated from the start.

Driving License & Validity

• An Austrian driving license is valid in the Netherlands.
• After a certain period of residence (usually 10 years from the issue date), an exchange may be required.
• Special categories (e.g., trucks, buses) have specific regulations.

Our Service Advantage

Geschwandtner GmbH can also take care of safe vehicle transport to the Netherlands or Austria if needed – including all organizational details such as insurance coverage and customs formalities for special cases. Our experience ensures that your car moves stress-free with you.

Health Insurance & Social System in the Netherlands

Moving to the Netherlands also means understanding the local health insurance and social security system.

Health Insurance

• Mandatory Coverage: All residents are required to have Dutch health insurance (“basisverzekering”) within four months of registering with the municipality.
• Private vs. Public: The basic package covers general practitioner visits, hospital care, and essential medications. Additional coverage can be purchased for dental care, physiotherapy, or alternative treatments.
• Costs: Monthly premiums vary but are generally higher than in Austria. However, the system provides high-quality healthcare and comprehensive coverage.
• Exemptions: Some groups, like certain expatriates or EU health card holders, may qualify for temporary exemptions.

Social Security System

• Pensions: The Netherlands operates a state pension system (AOW) complemented by occupational pensions.
• Unemployment & Disability: Residents have access to benefits if they become unemployed or are unable to work due to illness or disability.
• Child Benefits & Family Allowances: Families receive support for children, including allowances and tax benefits.
• Contribution System: Social security contributions are deducted from salaries, and both employers and employees contribute.

Key Takeaway
The Dutch health and social system ensures comprehensive protection but requires careful planning. Registering promptly and understanding your insurance options can prevent costly surprises.

Job Market & Career Opportunities in the Netherlands

Many people move to the Netherlands seeking new career opportunities. The country is known as an international business hub with a high quality of life and offers opportunities across various sectors.

Key Industries in the Netherlands

• Logistics & Port Economy: Rotterdam is Europe’s largest seaport and a global logistics hub.
• Technology & Innovation: Eindhoven (“Brainport”) is a leading center for high-tech and research.
• Finance & Trade: Amsterdam is an international financial center.
• Healthcare & Nursing: High demand for skilled professionals, especially in nursing and care roles.
• Agriculture & Food Industry: The Netherlands is one of the largest exporters worldwide.

Opportunities for Expats and Skilled Professionals

• English is widely used in professional settings, especially in international companies.
• Many companies actively seek highly qualified expats.
• Networks like IamExpat.nl or Expatica Jobs make it easier to find work.

Working Conditions & Features

• Employment contracts are often flexible, and part-time positions are common.
• Average weekly working hours are around 36–40 hours.
• Vacation: minimum of 20 days per year, with many employers offering additional days.
• Remote work is established in many sectors.

Tips for Job Seekers

• Adapt your CV and application documents to Dutch standards (concise, focused on skills).
• Use online job portals such as LinkedIn, Indeed.nl, and NationaleVacaturebank.nl.
• Improve language skills – even though English is often sufficient, knowing Dutch is an advantage for integration and career growth.
• For current expat-focused job listings, check IamExpat.nl.

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Registration Requirements in Austria & the Netherlands

One often underestimated but crucial step when moving abroad is fulfilling registration requirements. Overlooking this can lead to fines or problems with insurance, banking, and official procedures.

Deregistering in Austria

• Anyone moving their primary residence abroad must deregister with the local Austrian registration office.
• Deregistration should occur no later than three days after moving out.
• Required documents: a valid ID and the deregistration form.
• Tip: Remember to cancel or transfer contracts for electricity, gas, internet, and other services in a timely manner.

Registering in the Netherlands

• Registration with the local municipality (“Gemeente”) must be completed within five days of moving in.
• You will receive a Burgerservicenummer (BSN), which is required for almost all areas of daily life, including work, bank accounts, insurance, and taxes.
• Official registration information is provided by the Dutch government on Rijksoverheid.nl.

Required Documents:

• Passport or national ID card
• Rental or purchase contract of the residence
• Birth certificates of all family members
• Marriage certificate, if applicable

Common Pitfalls

• Missing the registration deadline can cause problems opening a bank account or obtaining health insurance.
• Without a BSN, it is not possible to work officially.
• Some municipalities may require additional proof, so early contact is recommended.

Temporary Storage & Flexible Moving Dates – moving and storage

Not every move goes according to plan: your new home in the Netherlands may not be ready yet, while your lease in Austria has already ended. In such cases, temporary storage offers an ideal solution to stay flexible and reduce stress.

Reasons for Temporary Storage

• Delays in Moving In: Renovations or construction delays.
• Avoid Double Rent Costs: Storage is often more affordable than temporary accommodation.
• Flexible Moving Dates: More time for travel planning or professional transitions.
• Security During Longer Stays Abroad: Furniture and household goods are safely stored.

Requirements for Good Storage

• Dry, clean, and secure spaces with modern alarm systems.
• Flexible access in case items are needed temporarily.
• Storage units bookable according to volume requirements.

Our Offer at Geschwandtner GmbH

• Modern, video-monitored storage units in Austria for short- or long-term storage.
• Flexible billing – pay only for the space you actually need.
• Professional packing and transport to the storage facility included.
• Optional: direct onward transport to the Netherlands once your new home is ready.

With this solution, our clients remain stress-free and flexible, even in the case of unforeseen delays.

Why Moving with Geschwandtner GmbH is Worth It

Moving to the Netherlands or back to Austria is an exciting step – but it can also be a complex project that quickly becomes challenging without the right support. From finding a home, budgeting, and organizing transport to handling official procedures and integrating into school or the job market, there are many details to consider.

Geschwandtner GmbH – Your Experienced Partner

We combine over 30 years of experience in international moving with the highest quality standards:

• TÜV ISO 9001 certified
• Member of leading professional associations: IAM, FEDEMAC, and ÖMTV
• Own modern truck fleet for international transport
• Flexible solutions: from full relocations to partial loads
• Personalized advice and tailor-made offers

Whether you are an individual, a family, or a company, we are a moving partner who not only handles logistics but also provides practical tips and personal support for a smooth start.

Your Next Step

Planning a move to the Netherlands or back to Austria? Rely on the expertise of Geschwandtner GmbH. Contact us for a non-binding consultation and receive a customized offer.

With us, your move will not only be stress-free but a completely successful experience.