Moving to Italy offers the chance to experience a country rich in culture, history, food, and timeless beauty. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, retirement, or simply to embrace the Italian lifestyle, Italy welcomes expatriates with vibrant cities, charming villages, and a warm Mediterranean atmosphere.
At A1 Relocations, we make your relocation to Italy seamless — from professional packing and international shipping to customs clearance and final delivery to your new home.
🌍 Why Move to Italy?
Italy is one of the world’s most desirable destinations thanks to its exceptional quality of life, rich heritage, and world-renowned cuisine. Each region offers something different — from the cultural elegance of Florence to the energy of Milan, the coastal charm of Naples, and the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany.
Key advantages of living in Italy:
- Excellent healthcare system and EU-standard services
- Strong family-oriented and community lifestyle
- Affordable cities compared to much of Western Europe
- Easy travel across the EU and Schengen area
- Rich cultural and culinary traditions
- Beautiful landscapes, from coastal towns to mountain regions
💰 Cost of Living in Italy
Costs vary depending on the city — Milan and Rome are the most expensive, while cities like Turin, Bologna, and Palermo offer more budget-friendly living.
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Apartment (1-bedroom, city center) | 900–1,600 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | 150–220 |
| Groceries & dining out | 350–550 |
| Public transport | 40–60 |
| Private healthcare visit | 60–120 |
Many expatriates benefit from employer housing allowances or relocation packages, helping offset costs.
🏡 Housing and Popular Cities
Italy offers a wide variety of accommodation styles, from modern city apartments to countryside villas and coastal homes.
Popular cities for expatriates:
- Rome – Historic, vibrant, and diverse
- Milan – Italy’s business and fashion capital
- Florence – Art, culture, and peaceful lifestyle
- Bologna – High quality of life and excellent food culture
- Turin – Affordable and family-friendly
- Naples – Coastal lifestyle and Mediterranean charm
Our A1 Relocation team ensures that your belongings arrive safely and are delivered with care to your new home.
📦 Shipping & Customs Regulations for Italy
Importing used household goods and personal effects into Italy requires careful document preparation. With A1 Relocations, our experienced team will guide you through every step to ensure a smooth customs clearance.
📄 Documents Required
- Copy of passport
- Original Bill of Lading (OBL) / Air Waybill (AWB) – Provided by A1 Relocations
- Copy of Codice Fiscale (Italian tax code)
- Packing list in English or Italian
- Dichiarazione Sostitutiva di Certificazione completed and signed by the owner
- Detailed inventory signed by owner, stamped by the Italian Consulate/Embassy (citizens/EU nationals)
- Copy of residence certificate / receipt from City Hall showing residence application (non-diplomats)
- Permit to stay (Permesso di Soggiorno) issued by the Questura (non-EU / non-Diplomats)
- Original Dichiarazione Consolare di Rimpatrio from the Italian Consulate (Italian citizens)
- Diplomatic franchise / Telepresso (Diplomats)
ℹ️ Important Customs Information
The Dichiarazione Sostitutiva di Certificazione must include:
- Number of family members
- City of nationality
- Country of origin prior to moving
- Date of establishing residency in Italy
The Consular Declaration must include:
- Proof of at least 12 months of residence abroad
- Names of family members
- Date of final return to Italy
- Attached packing list
Duty & Tax Requirements
- Used household goods may be imported duty and tax free within:
- 6 months of establishing residency in Italy (non-EU citizens)
- 1 year from date of departure from the origin country (Italian citizens & EU nationals)
- New items or new furniture are subject to:
- Import duties (varies based on material)
- 22% VAT on the CIF value
- Diplomats must receive official approval after starting their assignment before importing goods duty-free.
- Shipments should only be sent after receiving approval from the destination agent to avoid extra storage or port fees.
Art, Antiques & Special Items
- A detailed list describing each art or antique piece is required.
- Legalization of the list by the Italian Consulate at origin is strongly recommended.
⚠️ Restricted & Prohibited Items
Restricted / Controlled Items:
- Alcohol (may require duties & taxes)
- Art, antiques, or valuable collections
- New furniture (subject to duties/VAT)
Prohibited Items:
- Weapons and ammunition (unless pre-approved)
- Narcotics
- Pornographic materials
- Counterfeit goods
- Food items of animal origin without proper certification
A1 Relocations will confirm all compliance requirements before shipment to avoid delays.
🧳 Moving to Italy: What to Expect
Estimated transit time:
- 4–6 weeks by sea from Asia
- 5–8 days by air freight
Customs clearance timeline:
- 7–14 working days, depending on documentation and inspections
Services offered by A1 Relocations:
- Door-to-door international moving
- Professional packing & unpacking
- Long and short-term storage
- Customs documentation and clearance
- Final delivery and setup at your residence
🍝 Life in Italy
Italy promises an exceptional lifestyle: delicious food, a relaxed pace of life, cultural richness, and warm social communities. Whether strolling through ancient streets, enjoying weekend trips across Europe, or dining in local trattorias — Italy is as rewarding as it is welcoming.
✈️ Move to Italy with Confidence
A1 Relocations ensures your move is managed with precision and care. From packing at origin to final delivery in Italy, our expert team streamlines the entire process so you can settle in and start your new Italian life with peace of mind.
📞 Ready to relocate to Italy?
Contact A1 Relocations for expert guidance and your personalized relocation plan.
A1 Relocations – Making your move to Italy seamless.
