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UK to Mumbai Packing Checklist: What to Pack for Maharashtra Moves
November 29, 2025
Planning your UK to Mumbai removal? A good packing checklist saves stress and avoids customs issues. Mumbai’s tropical climate, dense urban life and strict Indian import rules mean smart packing matters. This guide covers essentials for Maharashtra international moves, helping you prepare belongings for Nhava Sheva port transit (6-8 weeks typical).
Essential Documents & Paperwork First
Start with paperwork – Indian customs checks everything:
- Passports & Visas: Originals + 3 photocopies per person
- Detailed Inventory: Room-by-room list of all items (English only)
- Shipper’s Declaration: Signed form stating goods are used household items
- UK Export Forms: CMR or ATA Carnet if needed
- Pet Papers: Vet certificates, microchip records (pets need 30-day quarantine)
Keep originals in hand luggage. Digital copies on phone + USB stick. Mumbai customs at Nhava Sheva port can delay unlisted items.
Clothing & Personal Items for Mumbai Climate
Mumbai stays hot (28-35°C year-round) with monsoon June-September:
textCLOTHING (light cotton best):
✓ Lightweight shirts, trousers (3-5 each)
✓ Sarees/kurtas if cultural events planned
✓ Rain poncho, umbrella (monsoon essential)
✓ Warm layer (1) for AC offices/airports
✓ Modest clothing for temples/government offices
ELECTRONICS:
✓ Dual-voltage chargers (India 230V)
✓ Type D/M plug adaptors (buy in UK)
✓ Surge protector (Mumbai power fluctuations)
✓ Universal travel adaptor set
Pack 2 weeks' clothes in suitcase. Rest in boxes marked "CLOTHES - LOW VALUE".
Kitchen & Household Packing Tips
Indian customs restricts food, alcohol, wood items:
text
KITCHEN SAFE TO PACK:
✓ UK electric kettle (dual voltage)
✓ Cutlery set, plates (melamine/lightweight)
✓ Non-wooden cooking utensils
✓ Coffee/tea (sealed, <2kg)
❌ No alcohol, meat products, wooden furniture
HOUSEHOLD:
✓ Synthetic bedding (cotton moulds in monsoon)
✓ LED lamps (India 220-240V)
✓ Plastic storage boxes (nesting saves space)
Label kitchen boxes “USED HOUSEHOLD KITCHENWARES”. No rice, spices, or perishables – buy fresh in Mumbai markets.
Fragile Items & Furniture Strategy
Mumbai apartments average 800-1200 sq ft. Measure first:
- Books: Limit to 20kg (humidity warps paperbacks)
- Art/Photos: Bubble wrap + plywood crate
- Glassware: Original boxes or dividers
- Mattresses: Vacuum pack + plastic wrap
- Sofas: Professional disassemble/reassemble
Pro Tip: Sell bulky UK furniture. Mumbai has good local options at 30-50% less cost.
Final Mumbai Move Checklist
text✅ 8 weeks before: Book vetted UK-Maharashtra movers
✅ 4 weeks before: Customs inventory complete
✅ 2 weeks before: Pack "suitcase essentials"
✅ 1 week before: Fragile items crated
✅ Move day: Documents + valuables separate