Guernsey is a wonderful place to visit and to live. It’s easy to see why anyone would want to move there. But for moving companies, a job to the Channel Islands might sound like a good idea, but it has its pitfalls. Here, Ant Austen from Guernsey Relocation Services, offers some sage advice.
Okay, you’ve secured a move from the UK to Guernsey and you’re thinking, “Nice little job. A quick blip across the English Channel, and back again.” Tread wisely! With duplicated road names, elusive maps and only the odd signpost, Guernsey’s 25sq miles remains a winding maze for the visitor. Not to mention Google Maps and Satnav.
If you don’t want to join the hire cars tangled up in the nature trails, seek some local advice on the road laws. It could be crucial to the rest of your schedule.
In Guernsey, for example, the speed limit for commercial vehicles is 25mph and there are strict vehicle restrictions: Maximum width - 2.31 metres (not 2.55 metres as on the mainland): Maximum length - 9.45 metres.
Along the eastern seafront, the ‘Harbours Route’ permits oversized vehicles to ferry freight and fresh produce to the many industrial sites. To avoid the head-on traffic of the inland roads, cars and light trade vehicles arch into driveways and surf the pavements. The country roads are single lanes (two-way) just about wide enough for a Luton-sized van to slowly pass through.
During the week, Condor Ferries has two freight vessels sailing between Portsmouth, Guernsey and Jersey. The consignment must have a full inventory, shipping note and a Customs C15 Form (signed by the client). Shipped alcohol is remanded until customs calculate the duty owed and have received full payment.
So, if you’re moving someone to Guernsey, you could try to do it yourself, but beware. You might need some help or, at least, a little guidance. Guernsey-based removal companies will happily provide transhipment services with local drivers and help to save you the hassle.
www.guernseyremovals.com
Photo: Guernsey harbour. Photo: Jamie Le Tissier.