Relocating
Relocation Services
International removals, shipping and settling into your new life.
Choosing a Remover
Choosing a removal company
Look for FIDI accreditation
FIDI (Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux) is the global alliance of professional moving companies. FIDI-accredited companies must meet strict quality standards and undergo regular independent auditing.
Most FIDI members have partner agents in Mauritius, which is important for the destination end of your move — customs clearance, port delivery and local distribution.
What to ask your removal company
- Do they have a partner agent in Mauritius?
- Do they offer door-to-door or door-to-port service?
- What is included in the insurance coverage?
- What are the customs documentation requirements?
- Do they provide professional packing?
- What storage options are available if there is a delay?
Shipping Options
Sea freight vs air freight
Sea freight
The most cost-effective option for full household moves. A 20ft container can hold the contents of a 2–3 bedroom home.
Air freight
For urgent shipments or high-value items that need to arrive quickly. Priced per kilogram — significantly more expensive than sea freight.
Best used for: important documents, specific clothing items, electronic equipment, small valuables and items needed immediately on arrival.
Not recommended for furniture or large household goods.
Customs & Duty
Customs and import duty
Duty-free household effects
Returning residents and new Permanent Residency holders can import their used household goods and personal effects duty-free on a one-time basis. This must be done within six months of first arriving with the relevant permit or residency status.
You will need proof of your residency status, an itemised inventory, and a declaration that the goods have been in your personal use for at least 12 months.
Standard import duty
New goods imported into Mauritius are subject to customs duty (rate varies by category) plus 15% VAT on the combined value. For most household goods, duty ranges from 0% to 30%.
Import duty on vehicles is 65–100% of the import value, making it generally uneconomical to import your own car. Most expats sell their vehicle before leaving and buy locally. Mauritius drives on the left and uses right-hand-drive vehicles.
Vehicles
Importing a car
Due to high import duties (65–100% of the vehicle value), importing your own car is generally not cost-effective. It is almost always better to sell your vehicle before leaving and purchase a second-hand car locally in Mauritius.
A good range of Japanese, European and South African vehicles are available second-hand. Mauritius is right-hand drive. The National Transport Authority (NTA) handles vehicle registration.
Storage
Storage options
In-transit storage
Most removal companies offer storage while your goods are in transit — useful if you arrive before your container does. Costs are typically calculated per week.
Local self-storage
Several self-storage facilities operate in Mauritius, including StorIt and local operators in the central and north areas. Useful if your new home is not yet ready or during renovations.
Post-Arrival
Settling in checklist
Full moving guide
Visas, company setup, property and all aspects of relocating to Mauritius.
Bringing pets?
Complete guide to importing dogs, cats and other animals to Mauritius.
Relocation or removal company?
List your services on Mauritius Life and reach people planning their move.