Shipping & Pets

Two of the most-asked practical questions: should I ship my belongings, and can I bring my pets? The short answers are "it depends" and "yes, with planning".

Shipping your belongings

Most movers use sea freight in a shared or full container. Key points:

• Cost vs replace — furniture and appliances are dutiable and shipping takes weeks; sometimes replacing bulky items locally is cheaper. Ship what has value or meaning, not everything.
• Electricals — Mauritius uses 230V and mainly UK-style plugs, so British appliances work directly; others may need adapters.
• Customs & duty — you'll pay duty on many household goods. A returning-resident or first-arrival relief may apply in some cases; a good relocation agent handles clearance.
• Timing — start 6–8 weeks ahead; align arrival with when you can receive the container.

Bringing cats and dogs

Mauritius is rabies-free and protects that status with a strict but well-defined import process. In broad terms you will need:

1. Microchip and up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies.
2. A rabies antibody titre test after vaccination, with a mandatory waiting period.
3. An import permit from the Mauritian authorities, arranged in advance.
4. Health certification and, on arrival, a period of home or facility quarantine.

The full process runs to several months, so start early. Some breeds face restrictions.

Import rules are detailed and change; always confirm the current requirements with the Mauritian veterinary authority and use a pet-relocation specialist.

Our life-services partner can recommend vetted relocation and pet-transport agents.