Know the Rules for Your Move in Portugal
A single national authorization from IMT, with a public list of licensed companies.
Before you rely on this
Portugal licenses movers under the same EU Regulation 1071/2009 framework used across the EU, issued by the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) as either an alvará (domestic-only authorization) or a licença comunitária (Community Licence, covering domestic and EU-wide transport). The authorization is held by the company operating the vehicles; where a mover subcontracts transport, the carrier holds it. Always confirm current requirements directly before hiring a mover.
What kind of question is it?
An alvará or licença comunitária from IMT, requiring good repute, financial standing, and professional competence, where the mover operates its own vehicles.
Portugal →IMT publishes a list of licensed companies (Empresas Licenciadas) that anyone can check.
Covered within the Portugal pageA mandatory complaints book (Livro de Reclamações, paper and electronic) plus a network of authorised consumer arbitration centres.
Covered within the Portugal pageThe licença comunitária covers EU-wide transport from the outset, a simpler structure than Germany’s or France’s separate upgrade step. CMR does not apply to furniture removal, so Portugal’s domestic liability framework continues to apply.
International: Portugal →Select a page
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only. Regulations may change. Always confirm current requirements directly with IMT before hiring a mover.
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