Moving to the Canaries with Pets: An Insider’s Guide for Dogs & Cats

May 15, 2026

Moving to the Canary Islands is a dream for many, and four-legged family members are, of course, part of that dream. But take note: although the islands are Spanish territory, their isolated location means they are treated as a “special zone” with strict controls regarding animal transport. As local insiders, we’ll tell you exactly what matters so that your dog or cat’s move doesn’t end in bureaucratic chaos. 1. Identification and Papers: The “Passport” Before the journey begins, the formalities must be correct. Nothing moves without the blue EU Pet Passport. Microchip: This is absolutely mandatory and must be ISO-compliant. Registration: A quick insider tip: as soon as you arrive, you should register your pet in the Canarian database (ZOOCAN). This is a huge help if your darling decides to go on an “exploratory tour” down into a barranco (ravine). 2. Rabies Vaccination: Timing is Everything The Canarian authorities do not mess around when it comes to rabies. The 21-Day Rule: The initial vaccination must have been administered at least 21 days before landing in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, or any of the other islands. Validity: Ensure that the vaccination is documented in the passport without any gaps. 3. The Journey: Plane or the “Cadiz Route”? As insiders, we know that the choice of route determines the stress level. By Flight: Most airlines transport animals. Small dogs can often travel in a bag under the seat, while larger ones travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold. Caution: In summer, the tarmac in Las Palmas or Tenerife South can become extremely hot – try to book early morning flights! By Ferry (from Huelva or Cadiz): Ideal if you are traveling with your car anyway. Be sure to book a “Pet-Friendly Cabin” well in advance so your dog can spend the 30–40 hour crossing with you in the cabin. 4. Health on Site: Beware of the Sandfly Since the Canary Islands belong to a subtropical climate zone, there are insects and parasites here that are virtually unknown in Northern Europe. This includes Leishmaniasis, which is transmitted by sandflies. Prophylaxis: Use high-quality collars or spot-ons specifically designed to protect against the Phlebotomus (sandflies) found here. Heartworm: In the Canaries, heartworm disease (Dirofilariasis) is a serious topic. An insider must: discuss a monthly prophylaxis with your vet as soon as you start living here. A move with pets requires good planning, but the reward is endless hikes through pine forests or relaxed evenings on the finca. Conclusion: With the right timing regarding vaccinations and transport, nothing stands in the way of island happiness on four paws.

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Safely Packed: Pro Tips for Glass, Art, and Electronics on the High Seas

May 3, 2026

Anyone preparing their belongings for transport to the Canary Islands faces a unique challenge. The sea route involves movement, temperature fluctuations, and multiple handlings. To ensure your most valuable items arrive undamaged, using the right technique is essential. In this article, we share our professional experience to ensure that glass, art, and electronics travel safely in the container. 1. Glass and Porcelain: The Art of Padding Glass is fragile, but with the right layering, it remains well secured. Important: Wrap each piece individually in tissue paper or bubble wrap. Plates should never be placed flat, but always upright in the box – this distributes the pressure much better. Tip: Fill all hollow spaces in the box completely with packing material. Nothing should be able to move when the box is lightly shaken. 2. Art and Paintings: Protection against Pressure and Moisture Artworks are sensitive to external influences. Packaging: Use special picture boxes or build a protective layer from sturdy double-wall cardboard. The corners should be additionally secured with corner protection profiles. Caution: Avoid direct contact between bubble wrap and oil paintings, as this can leave marks. Instead, use acid-free wrapping paper as the first layer. 3. Electronics: Avoiding Statics and Shocks Flat screens and computers are highly sensitive to vibrations. Original Packaging: If possible, always use the original packaging with the matching polystyrene inserts. Alternative: If this is no longer available, wrap the devices in anti-static film and use extremely thick layers of padding. Screens must always be transported upright – never lay TV sets down flat. Important: Due to the risk of fire, many shipping lines no longer accept lithium batteries (such as those from e-bikes, e-scooters, or power banks) in the container. These must be declared in advance or transported via hand luggage. A move across the ocean is not comparable to a move within the neighbourhood. The load must be secured in the container so that it remains stable even in rough seas. Professional packaging is the best insurance for your property. Tip: We at Phoenix know exactly what matters when it comes to stowing your goods. We ensure that your cargo arrives safely. Conclusion: With a little patience and the right material, the sea route is absolutely safe for your treasures. Do you want to bring your belongings to the island stress-free? Phoenix Trans Internacional accompanies your move with expertise and care – from safe packing to arrival at your new home in the Canary Islands.

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Moving to the Canary Islands: Everything You Need to Know!

March 30, 2026

Let’s be honest: moving to Gran Canaria or Tenerife is often sold as a “simple island hop within the EU.” But anyone who has stood at the Port of Las Palmas trying to release their container without the right paperwork knows that the clocks tick differently here. Fiscally speaking, the Canaries are a special territory—and that’s where things get interesting. The “N.I.E.” Phantom: Nothing Works Without the Number It’s mentioned everywhere, yet often underestimated: the N.I.E. (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your new shadow. Without this number, you cannot order a proper internet connection, re-register a car, or sign a rental contract that will hold up in court. Insider Tip: It is best to obtain your N.I.E. through the Spanish consulate in your home country before you move. If you wait until you arrive, plan for at least a two-to-three-week wait for an appointment. Without an N.I.E., we cannot even register your household goods at the port. Household Goods and the “Customs Trap” Many people think: “I’m moving within the EU, so I don’t have to pay customs.” Unfortunately, that is incorrect. Since the Canary Islands are not part of the EU VAT Union (we have IGIC instead), your private household goods are treated as an import. To avoid paying taxes on your own used furniture, we use a specific duty-free procedure for “transfer of residence.” For this, we need: Your deregistration certificate (Abmeldebescheinigung) from your previous home. The Empadronamiento (confirmation from the local town hall that you now live here). Proof of ownership showing you have owned your belongings for more than six months. If this chain of documentation is broken, customs will strike mercilessly. Therefore: register with the town hall first, then have the container delivered—never the other way around! Why You Want Resident Status (75% Discount!) Once you have settled in after a few months, apply for the “Green Residencia” (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión). This isn’t just paperwork; it’s worth cold hard cash. As a registered resident, you receive a 75% discount on all flights and ferries to the Spanish mainland and between the islands. A weekend trip to Fuerteventura or Madrid often costs less than a dinner at a restaurant. Vehicle Registration: A Chapter of Its Own Bringing your car is a great idea, but the deadlines are tight. Once you register your residence, you have only a short window to avoid the matriculation tax. If you miss this moment, it gets expensive. We don’t just ship your car across the Atlantic; we also take it through the Spanish technical inspection (ITV) and arrange your new license plates. Conclusion: Enjoy the excitement of living under the sun. Leave the paperwork war and the heavy lifting to us. Those who try to save money in the wrong places usually end up paying double at customs.

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