Here is the truth from The International Moving Doctor.

If you use good quality rubber tubs like the ones in this picture above, then you will be fine. They have the strength to be stacked up on each other so they will travel great with no issues or damage. Always stack the heaviest tubs at the bottom though.

The trouble happens when you use the cheaper plastic ones, often semi see through which are fine for your Christmas decorations to be stored in your attic or garage but not so good when you are using them to move overseas. The trouble happens when you stack four , five or six on top of each other. The one at the bottom can not support that much weight on top of it and starts to crack and split open. It might even crush and cause the ones above it to start leaning or falling which can make the whole pallet or U Crate to be unstable. On top of this (pardon the pun) the split open tub contents will get damaged and if there is anything liquid in there, it might leak which can then  cause damage to other things in your shipment, such as clothes or bedding.

If you are using a U Crate, the crate sides should support the load, even if the bottom is crushing but on a pallet you could end up with some serious damage as the load is only covered with shrink wrap and sharp pieces of plastic tub could tear the cover and loose items spill out from the pallet.

So, if using plastic tubs or crates, use good quality ones that are not cheap but they will ship just fine and be good for storage in your garage, shed or attic for years to come at your overseas destination. Cardboard moving boxes are great, and cheaper if you pack them full so they can not crush and you plan on unpacking everything soon after you arrive at the destination but if items might be staying stored then definitely invest in the tubs.

I hope that helps and don’t forget to ask the International Moving Doctor at UPakWeShip if you have any questions. If you are not sure what service you need, take a look at this You Tube video which explains all the different services we offer.

All our U Crate and pallet rates are online at www.upakweship.com so if you want to know how much it costs to move overseas, have a look at our international moving cost calculator.

If you need a personalized international moving quote, just click here.

Happy Packing folks

Cheers Mark Nash, aka The International Moving Doctor, UPakWeShip, your trusted International Mover.

The post Rub a dub dub, can we ship stuff in tubs? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

As of now, March 30th 2026, our online prices are still good but there is pressure on the horizon for rates to increase. This is partly due to the shipping lines adding “FSC” fuel surcharges and also the truckers hauling our shipping containers to and from the ports in the USA as well as our operations at UPakWeShip UK and UPakWeShip Europe are all paying more to fill their tanks and are passing on the extra costs to us.

While our weekly services across the Atlantic have not been effected with the Middle East situation, our Dubai service as been temporarily suspended and all the shipments that were heading to Dubai are safe in our UPakWeShip warehouse near Rotterdam waiting to see what happens.

We always honor quotes for 30 days from quote to pick up so if you are moving soon, I suggest locking into your rate and booking as soon as possible. If you are thinking of shipping in the next 60 days it is probably worth booking and shipping earlier if you can.

If not, please be prepared for increases, as gas and oil prices go up. and everything else has to follow unfortunately.

I am hoping everything goes back to normal again soon, if you have any questions, you can always contact me on email move@upakweship.com

I do not wish to alarm or pressure anyone, just giving honest advice as always….

Stay safe everyone.

Cheers,

The International Moving Doctor

Mark Nash

UPakWeShip International Movers

The post Fuel Surcharges on the horizon if moving overseas in 2026? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

A Family company that specializes in moving Families!

There are big corporate moving companies that specialize in moving big corporate employees with big relocation budgets. There are also big corporate companies that specialize in moving Military families and Government employees. Most do a great job and offer what’s called a white glove service for their customers. But do they have the time, patience, staff and competitiveness to look after the family who is paying for themselves that need some handholding and friendly helpful advice through the process?

That’s where UPakWeShip comes into its own! UPakWeShip is a family run business with 7 family members spread between its offices in the USA, Europe and the UK. With operations on both sides of the Atlantic, most of our moves are controlled and managed by UPakWeShip with no third-party agents contacting you.

Why is having one company door to door so important?  It allows us to maintain a high standard of quality control, operational and communications, and most importantly stops extra fees being billed to you by third parties. How often do you see reviews online that say the move was ok, but we were charged an extra fee before delivery for various made-up reasons. It’s common practice for the delivery agent that probably only won the job by being the cheapest to make more profit by charging extras on the delivery. Not with UPakWeShip though!

Many years ago, we were so fed up with this practice and complaints from our customers when we used a third-party mover, that we decided to set up our own company in the UK and Europe so that we could make sure this did not happen anymore.

When moving with UPakWeShip, you will feel the difference between us and the big guys, we answer the phone, you can always speak to the same person you did last time and we are knowledgeable, friendly, patient and most importantly give you a lump sum all inclusive price without the worry of extra sneaky fees being made up to line some large corporations pockets! See UPakWeShip’s price guarantee here.

We are the UPakWeShip family that wants to help your family relocate with no stress or worries.

One company door to door. Get all inclusive moving and shipping rates online with our international moving cost calculator.

The post We are Family appeared first on UPakWeShip.

This is a popular question, and I’ll do my best to answer it for you here.

The quick simple answer is no, providing you have all your boxes in a row!

Here is the more detailed answer.

U Crates, Pallets and Shared Container Services

If you are shipping U Crates, Pallets or our shared container service we have a simplified customs clearance process at our the UPakWeShip office in Rotterdam which allows us to not charge you any customs duties or taxes on your shipment providing you provide us with your passport and a signed declaration that all the goods are yours and used and not for re sale. We also need a packing list with a non-detailed description of what is in each box. By that I mean box 1 Kitchenware, not 14 forks and 12 knives etc. It’s all very easy and simple.

We can also store your things in our warehouse if you are still looking for a place to stay. The storage rate is 25 Euros per pallet per week, so if you had three U Crates or pallets the rate would be 75 Euros per week.

20ft and 40ft Self Lod Shipping Containers

If, however, you are loading a 20ft or 40ft shipping container yourself, then the container will have to be shipped direct to the nearest port in the country you are moving to. As this is a large shipment and arriving in the country of final delivery you will have to abide by the customs regulations of that country. We obviously do provide you with the documentation requirements and it varies with each European Country, but you will need a visa to show you are approved to be moving there and complete numerous forms and often provide proof you have lived outside of Europe for the past 12 months. Many countries require an interview at the embassy or consulate in the USA before you get your visa to move. Providing you get all the documentation requirements to us before your container arrives at the destination, we should be able to clear it through customs with no duties or taxes, but if anything is wrong or missing, the local customs office in the European country might charge you duties and taxes so do your homework and prepare well in advance. Also worth noting here is most of the shipping lines that provide the containers to go on their ships, typically only allow 3-5 days free at the destination before they start charging you for keeping their container, even if it hasn’t cleared customs yet. The port also jumps on the band wagon and will charge for the space your container is using, sitting in the port after 3-5 days while waiting. This is called rent and demurrage and will be invoiced to you for payment before delivery if the container takes too long to clear through customs or if further documentation is required by customs or any hold-ups. This is typical in countries like Spain and Portugal where the process can be slow.

As the shipping lines own the containers and want them back asap so they can re load them, we can not offer storage for your container so after if clears customs if you need it stored, the best thing to do is find a local self-storage place where we can deliver the container to, for you to unload.

The post Will I Pay Duties and Taxes when shipping my stuff to Europe? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

The Port of Los Angeles has resumed operations after fire erupted on board the ONE Henry Hudson, which was berthed at the port.

CNBC reported that an electrical fire on a lower deck of the container ship on Friday evening caused an explosion that shook the vessel, knocking out power to lights and cranes. A shelter-in-place order for local residents, due to hazardous material on board, was lifted on Saturday. Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, Gene Seroka, said approximately 117 containers were physically damaged out of the 8,000 onboard the vessel.

The ship was moved four miles out to sea to prevent the fire from damaging the port infrastructure and allow the Los Angeles Fire Department’s fireboats to continue firefighting operations. All crew aboard the One Henry Hudson were safely accounted for, according to a ONE spokesperson.

These are the things that can happen that make us always suggest your belongings are well insured.

The post Ship Fire at The Port of Los Angeles appeared first on UPakWeShip.

Maybe not quite in the same league but I was reminded of this when I learnt we were moving someone this week in a self-load 20ft container that had 600 pairs of sneakers in their shipment.

The best way to pack shoes if not in original boxes is wrap them in paper and place them in a medium box so it doesn’t get too heavy that you cant pick up the box. Put lots of crushed up paper or a blanket or cushion at the top so its nice and full with no space left in the box so its nice doesn’t crush with other boxes placed on top and tape it up. Do this about 30 times or more if you have plus 600 pairs lol.

This plus loading and shipping  a Viking replica boat across the Atlantic, (In a 40ft container not self-propulsion) made for a fun week at UPakWeShip

As a famous British Rocker sang, “Every Picture Tells a Story”, so does every box and move. Send us some pictures and your story so we can share with others. The best one will receive $500 refund on their move!

Any questions about international moving? Ask the International Moving Doctor https://upakweship.com/the-international-moving-doctor/ask-the-moving-doctor/

The post Sneaky Move appeared first on UPakWeShip.

Why pay someone else to do what you can do better yourself!

Smart simple shipping with UPakWeShip

The post What would you do? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

I was walking through the UPakWeShip warehouse yesterday and took these pictures to show you what can be done with our Pallet service. The first one shows boxes from Home Depot that are fitting perfectly on the pallet. The second picture shows some well stacked plastic tubs and the third picture a mix of them both. I get asked a lot about plastic tubs and the answer is, yes if they are the good ones like these ones. They are thick, heavy duty and stack well on each other. The ones on the bottom can accept the weight from the others on top. Plastic tubs are more expensive than cardboard but if you have the room at the destination t keep them for re use in the future they are worth the investment. Please make sure if using cardboard boxes, you fill them full so they do not collapse with more boxes stacked on top. If using plastic bins, please use the good ones like these and not the cheapo ones that will crack with weight on top of them.

The post What size boxes do I need? Can I use plastic bins? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

When it comes to sun-soaked states with miles of coastline, vibrant cities, and endless opportunities, two names immediately stand out: California and Florida. Both are popular destinations for relocation, retirement, and raising a family—but which one is the right fit for you?

Whether you’re considering moving from CA to FL, weighing the Florida vs. California cost of living, or simply curious about the differences in lifestyle, this guide will break down the pros and cons to help you decide.

Key Takeaways

• Florida is generally more affordable than California, with lower housing and childcare costs.
• The climate in Florida is consistently warm but humid, whereas California offers more climate diversity and outdoor activities year-round.
• Florida has no state income tax, making it financially appealing, especially for high earners, compared to California’s higher tax rates.

Comparing Florida and California Living Costs

Living costs are a significant factor when comparing Florida and California:

• California is generally the most expensive state.
• Overall expenses in California are approximately 23.5% higher than in Florida.
• Florida offers a more affordable lifestyle for those mindful of their wallets, especially considering the cost of living.

Housing is a major expense, and here in Florida again has the upper hand. The costs of housing in California are about 18.9% greater than in Florida. This makes the Sunshine State more appealing for homebuyers and renters alike. Additionally, transportation costs in California exceed those in Florida by about 16%, and groceries are roughly 6.2% more costly in California.

Childcare expenses can be a deal-breaker for families. In California, these costs are significantly higher, being 85.2% more expensive than in Florida. On the flip side, Florida’s entertainment costs are 27.1% lower cost, making it easier to enjoy leisure activities without breaking the bank.

In the battle of California vs Florida living costs, the Sunshine State often wins.

Climate Differences Impacting Lifestyle

The climate is a pivotal factor impacting your daily lifestyle. Florida boasts a tropical, humid climate with high humidity levels, while California offers a more varied climate with hot summers and snowy winters. For those who love consistent warmth, Florida’s climate might be more appealing, but be prepared for the high humidity, which can lead to health complications for some residents.

In contrast, California’s climate is more diverse and less humid. This allows for a broader range of outdoor activities year-round, from skiing in the winter to beach days in the summer.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that Florida has experienced an increase in average annual temperatures by 3.5°F since 1950, surpassing the global average rise. Ultimately, your preference for weather and lifestyle will guide your choice between these two states.

Housing Market Analysis: Florida vs California

The housing market significantly impacts the decision of where to live. Florida residents benefit from significantly lower median home prices, with homes currently around $400,000. In stark contrast, California’s median home price has surpassed $800,000. This makes Florida a more viable option for first-time homebuyers and those looking to stretch their dollars further.

Rent prices tell a similar story:

• The average rent for a residential unit in Florida is about $1,300 per month.
• In Los Angeles, it’s approximately $2,828.
• Even in Miami, rents are 53% lower than those in Los Angeles.

This affordability in Florida’s rental market makes it an attractive option for those not ready to purchase a home.

Recent trends show a slowdown in Florida’s housing market, with the number of closed sales dropping by 33.1% from Q4 2021 to Q4 2022. Despite this, the return on investment for properties in Florida has increased significantly, reaching an average of 85.4% in 2022. This indicates robust long-term potential for property investors.

Job Opportunities and Economic Landscape

Job opportunities and the economic landscape are pivotal in deciding where to relocate. Florida’s unemployment rate is significantly lower than the national average, indicating a strong job market. Key points about Florida’s economy include:

• The economy heavily relies on the tourism and hospitality sectors.
• These sectors contribute significantly to job availability.
• Florida is an attractive destination for those seeking service industry jobs.

California offers a different kind of employment landscape, with diverse opportunities in the tech and entertainment sectors. However, it also has a higher unemployment rate compared to Florida. This suggests a tighter job market, but the median income levels in California are generally higher, reflecting greater earnings potential.

Florida is recognized for its strong business-friendly environment. California, however, offers its advantages with booming industries and higher income levels. Your career goals and industry preferences will play a significant role in choosing between these two states.

Tax Implications for New Residents

New residents should carefully consider tax implications. Florida’s lack of a state income tax is a significant financial advantage, especially for high-income earners. This allows residents to keep more of their earnings and can be a deciding factor for many.

In contrast, California has a progressive income tax system with rates that can reach up to 13.3% for high earners. Additionally, Florida’s tax rates are as follows:

• Average property tax rate: about 0.82%, slightly below the national average
• Base sales tax rate: 6%
• Local counties can add up to 2.5% to the sales tax rate

These tax implications can significantly impact your overall financial expenses and should be carefully considered when planning your move.

Public Transportation and Traffic Challenges

Public transportation and traffic are essential aspects of daily living. Florida’s public transport systems are generally underdeveloped compared to larger cities with extensive rail networks. Living without a car in Florida can be challenging due to limited public transit options outside of urban centers.

In California, public transportation options are more extensive, especially in big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, for the most part, most people find that traffic congestion remains a significant issue in the city, impacting daily commutes, which can make it hard for commuters.

While both states face transportation challenges, the necessity of car ownership in Florida and the traffic woes in California are key considerations.

Quality of Education

Education quality is a major factor for families. Florida ranks first for the highest college graduation rates in the nation, reflecting its commitment to education. The state offers several advantages:

• Notable universities such as the University of Florida and Florida State University
• Relatively low cost of in-state tuition
• Availability of scholarships that make higher education more accessible for Florida residents

California also offers high-quality education with world-renowned institutions like Stanford and UC Berkeley. The decision may come down to specific programs and the overall experience you’re seeking for your educational course.

Cultural Diversity and Activities

Cultural diversity and activities are a significant draw for both states, including Mexico. Florida ranks seventh in the nation for diversity, influenced by Caribbean, African American, Latin American, and Native American communities. Major cultural events include the Calle Ocho Festival in Miami and the Puerto Rican Festival and Parade in Orlando, showcasing Florida’s vibrant cultural scene.

California boasts a rich cultural scene with diverse culinary offerings and numerous events. The state is home to:

• Iconic attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood
• Numerous national parks make it a haven for nature lovers. California’s prominent cultural festivals include:
• The Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco
• The Festival of Colors in Los Angeles.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, both states offer plenty of activities to enjoy.

Natural Disasters and Safety Concerns

Natural disasters and safety concerns are vital considerations for any resident. Regarding Florida:

• The state faces significant risks from hurricanes.
• The hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.
• Florida has experienced severe flooding and infrastructure damage due to hurricanes.
• The cost of hurricane-related damage from 2020 to 2024 is $244.5 billion.
• Residents must have an evacuation plan.
• Residents should be aware of their evacuation zones.

California frequently experiences wildfires, particularly in rural areas, and earthquakes. Both states require residents to prepare emergency supply kits and have family emergency plans due to severe weather risks. Understanding natural disaster risks and preparedness measures is crucial for safety in both states.

Pros and Cons of Living in Florida

Living in Florida comes with its own set of pros and cons. Some of the pros include:

• Around 230 to 250 sunny days per year, ideal for outdoor activities
• No state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings
• Beautiful beaches stretching for approximately 1,350 miles
• Year-round warm weather attracts many people to move to Florida

However, brutally hot and humid summers can make living in Florida uncomfortable for some. High annual home insurance premiums, exceeding $3,000 more than the national average, and traffic issues during tourist season can be frustrating.

Pros and Cons of Living in California

California also has its share of pros and cons. The state is known for its beautiful weather, boasting around 258 sunny days per year and mild winters. California offers a rich cultural scene with diverse culinary offerings and numerous events.

However, the challenges in California include:

• The cost of housing is high, with median home prices around $832,500.
• Traffic congestion is a common issue in major cities, impacting daily commutes.
• California has some of the highest income and sales tax rates in the United States.

Choosing UPakWeShip For Your Move To California Or Florida

Choosing a dependable international shipping company is essential for a hassle-free relocation. UPakWeShip provides a variety of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs and budgets of international shipping companies. Options include:

• Pallets: A cost-effective option for smaller shipments, offering secure transport for boxed goods.
• U Crate 50, U Crate 100, U Crate 200: Sturdy, custom-built crates in different sizes to fit your specific needs.
• Shared Containers: Here’s a great new idea if you have boxes and furniture that won’t fit on a pallet or in a U Crate, or if you are in a non-service area for your overseas shipping needs.
• U Units: This option provides a 16-foot UNITS container that can be delivered directly to your residence, allowing you a week to load your belongings at ground level with ease.
• UPakWeShip Plus: A full-service shipping that includes additional convenience and support for your move.

Choosing a company offering comprehensive shipping services helps manage relocation costs and ensures your belongings arrive safely.

Making an Informed Decision

Relocating requires weighing various factors. Taxes, job opportunities, and lifestyle choices are extremely important considerations. Individuals should carefully consider their living expenses and budget when deciding which state better fits their financial situation.

Researching the local culture and community of the chosen country is vital for successful adaptation. Ultimately, evaluating the pros and cons of both states will help you decide which aligns best with your lifestyle and future goals.

Summary

Both Florida and California offer unique advantages and challenges. Florida’s lower living costs, lack of state income tax, and warm climate appeal to many, while California’s diverse job opportunities, cultural scene, and mild weather make it equally attractive.

Your decision should be based on your personal preferences, financial situation, and long-term goals. Whether you prioritize affordability, career opportunities, or cultural experiences, making an informed choice will ensure your move is a successful and fulfilling one.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post The Ultimate Choice: Living in Florida or California? appeared first on UPakWeShip.

If you’re planning to live in the Netherlands, one of the first things you’ll need to sort out is your BSN number. The burger service number (BSN) is your unique personal identification number and is required for accessing government services, social security, taxes, and financial activities.

It serves a similar function in the Netherlands as the social security number does in the United States, acting as a national identification number for residents and non-residents interacting with Dutch authorities and systems. It’s used in nearly every official system in the country, from taxes to healthcare, education, housing, and even opening a bank account or registering a telephone number.

It’s not, however, the number they give you at Five Guys when you’re waiting for your cheeseburger. Yes, Five Guys does exist here in Rotterdam (and yes, it tastes just as good on this side of the North Sea). But unlike your burger order, your BSN isn’t optional if you want to get anything done in the Netherlands.

Key Takeaways

• The BSN (Burger Service Number) is your essential personal identification number for living, working, and accessing services in the Netherlands.
• If you plan to stay longer than four months, register with your local municipality (gemeente) within five days of arrival to automatically receive your BSN.
• Your BSN is required for everything from opening a bank account and applying for a residence permit to filing taxes and accessing healthcare.
• Even if you move abroad, your BSN remains valid for Dutch financial and legal matters, such as inheritance tax or receiving the Dutch state pension.

What Is a Citizen Service Number (BSN) and Why Does It Matter?

Think of the BSN as your all-access pass to Dutch life. Once issued, it links you to government departments and service providers. You’ll use it to apply for a residence permit, file tax assessments, receive a salary, register for health insurance, and even interact with the tax administration when dealing with things like inheritance tax or your Dutch state pension.

If you’re a student, the BSN becomes your education number. If you’re working, it’s tied to your payroll. If you’re simply trying to get online banking or register with a GP, you’ll be asked for it within five minutes of trying to do anything remotely official.

Getting Your BSN as a Resident

If you’re moving to the Netherlands and plan to stay for more than four months, you’ll need to register with your local municipality (known as the gemeente) within five days of arriving. This is how you’re added to the Dutch Personal National Register (BRP), a centralised database that holds essential citizen data, and once you’re in, you’ll automatically receive your BSN.

Your accommodation must be legitimate; you can’t use a hotel or short-term Airbnb as your registered address. You’ll also need the owner or landlord of the property to sign paperwork confirming you’re living there.

You’ll be asked for valid proof of identity, a rental contract, and official confirmation of your address. Some municipalities may ask for additional documents depending on your circumstances, so it’s worth checking their website before your appointment. Once everything is approved, your details are logged, and your citizen service number BSN will be sent to your Dutch address.

Non-Residents Records Database

If you’re not planning to stay longer than four months in the Netherlands but still need a BSN, for example, if you’re freelancing or own property, you can register through the Non-Residents Records Database (RNI).

Children who are in the Netherlands for less than four months must also be registered in the RNI to receive a BSN, which is necessary for services like school enrolment.

There are 19 designated municipalities in the Netherlands that have an RNI desk. You’ll need to book an appointment and apply in person, bringing your passport, address details, and any other requested documents. In most cases, you’ll walk out with your number on the same day.

The RNI route is especially useful if you live abroad but need a BSN for tax or inheritance purposes, or if you need to open a Dutch bank account or interact with local authorities from overseas.

Required Documents for Your BSN Application

Before you can unlock Dutch life with your Citizen Service Number (BSN), you’ll need to gather the necessary paperwork. The exact documents you’ll need can vary depending on your country of origin, immigration status, and whether you’re registering as a resident or non-resident. Here’s what you should have ready when you head to your municipality (gemeente) or RNI desk:

• A valid passport or national ID card – This is your primary proof of identity. If you already have a Dutch identity card or driving licence, bring those along too.
• Residence permit or visa (if applicable) – Non-EU/EEA citizens will need to show their residence permit or IND proof.
• Proof of address – A signed rental contract, recent utility bill, or official letter confirming your Dutch address.
• Birth certificate – Required if you’re registering a child (sometimes with an official translation or apostille).
• Marriage certificate or proof of legal partnership – If you’re registering with a legal partner.
• Proof of income or employment – Some municipalities may ask for a work contract, payslip, or other documents, especially for workers or students.
• Other documents – International students might need an education number or PGN. Entrepreneurs may be asked for a Dutch company tax number.

It’s always smart to double-check the specific requirements with your local gemeente or the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst) before your appointment. Requirements can differ, especially for non-residents, international students, or those who have lived abroad for more than eight months.

Once your registration is approved, you’ll receive your unique BSN, your key to public services, opening a bank account, and claiming benefits in the Netherlands. Your BSN is sensitive information, so keep it safe to avoid identity fraud. If you ever need to update your details or replace documents, contact your gemeente or the Belastingdienst.

Keeping Your Info Up to Date

If you move home, don’t forget to update your details with your new municipality. You must update your BRP records whenever you move, even if it’s within the same gemeente. Dutch bureaucracy is actually quite efficient, but only if you play by the rules. Any official letters, tax forms, or health insurance documents will be sent to the address you originally gave. If it’s out of date, you might miss something important.

For Those with Non-EU Passports

If you’re moving from outside the EU or EEA, the process involves one extra step. Before you can register with the municipality and get your BSN, you’ll need to sort out your legal status through the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). This applies to anyone who requires a residence permit to stay in the Netherlands.

Once your immigration paperwork is in order, you’ll be able to register and receive your BSN like everyone else. We’ll go into this process in more detail in a future guide, as rules can vary depending on your nationality and visa type.

Can You Keep Your BSN If You Leave the Netherlands?

Yes. If you live abroad but have financial or legal ties to the Netherlands, maybe you own property, receive a Dutch pension, or pay inheritance tax, your BSN remains valid. Many expats and retirees keep their BSN active to continue dealing with Dutch authorities or banks, especially when it comes to tax administration or long-term investments.

Just make sure the Dutch government has an up-to-date foreign address for you, and that your BSN is linked to the correct details.

Next Steps

Once your BSN is in hand, you can finally start building your life here properly. You can open a bank account, register for healthcare, sign rental agreements, and even set up your online DigiD login with a QR code. It’s the key to doing things the Dutch way: efficient, orderly, and slightly obsessed with paperwork.

Whether you’re here long-term or just testing the waters, understanding how to get a BSN in the Netherlands is one of the most important first steps. Trust us, your future self will thank you.

Moving to the Netherlands? Contact Us Today

If you’re planning a move to or from Europe, UPakWeShip is your go-to partner. With our own offices in both the US and Europe, unbeatable rates, and proper customer support from real humans (not bots), we’ve helped thousands of people make international relocation simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post How to Get a BSN in the Netherlands: A Guide to Settling In appeared first on UPakWeShip.