Moving to Morocco: the MRE customs exemption explained
Certificat de Changement de Résidence, duty-free goods, vehicle import: everything to know before shipping your container.
The Certificat de Changement de Résidence
This certificate, issued by your Moroccan consulate, is the cornerstone of your move. It certifies at least 90 days of residence abroad and lets you import personal belongings and furniture duty-free, provided they are used and have been yours for over 6 months.
Request it before departure: you generally need proof of residence abroad, your Moroccan CIN or passport, and a detailed inventory of your belongings in two copies, dated and signed.
What clears duty-free (and what doesn't)
Duty-free: furniture, appliances, clothing, books, personal computer equipment — all used. Excluded or taxed: new goods (recent invoices are a red flag), commercial quantities, alcohol, and multiple units of the same appliance.
The inventory must be precise and honest: customs can inspect the container. A significant gap between inventory and actual contents can mean taxation or the container being held at port — with daily storage fees.
Importing a vehicle as an MRE
MREs over 60 get a 90% reduction on import duties for one passenger vehicle (up to a value cap). Under 60, the general regime applies: duties and taxes can reach 40–50% of the vehicle's value depending on age and engine.
In all cases the vehicle must have been registered in your name for over 6 months. Do the math before shipping: for vehicles older than 5 years, selling in Europe and rebuying in Morocco is often cheaper.
Choosing a freight forwarder and avoiding traps
Compare at least three forwarder quotes (groupage or full 20/40ft container), check the transport insurance (declared value, not flat rate) and insist on a contact at the arrival port (Casablanca or Tanger Med). Classic hidden costs: port handling, storage beyond the free days, and "file fees" at customs clearance.
FigWay can handle customs clearance for you: it's one of our most requested à la carte services (€190), included in the Premium and Concierge packs.
Plan your move to Morocco with FigWay
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