The cost of removals to Switzerland will depend on several factors, such as the volume of goods you are sending, what packing is required, and the distance you are from the port.

There will also be additional costs to consider, such as optional insurance/shipment protection and Swiss customs inspection fees that need to be paid on arrival.

The best way to get a more accurate price or estimate is to call our team or request a removals quote online. They can also advise on the best way to reduce your removal costs.

We offer a fully comprehensive removals service to Switzerland, which will take care of everything for you. The removals service includes door-to-door pick-up and delivery (not door-to-port), export packing by professional international removal packers, specialist cartons, crates and antique packing as required, help with customs paperwork and inventory listing, shipping via accredited shipping lines, transport to and from the port, customs clearance service,

Additional fees that are not included in your removal costs quote include customs inspection fees, duties and port fees payable on arrival in Switzerland, storage services and maritime insurance or shipment protection cover, which is recommended but not required.

Your household belongings and furniture will be shipped to Switzerland via a lorry, as part of a part load / shared service. You can use a dedicated lorry, but it will be more expensive. 

Our Switzerland removal service includes the following steps:

1) A home or video survey to provide you with an accurate quote or removal estimate.

2) A personal Move Coordinator to plan and manage all aspects of your home removal.

3) They will guide you through completing all the necessary paperwork for sea freight shipping, customs clearance, and shipment protection.

4) On move day, our movers and packers will take care of all the packing and export wrapping of furniture and other belongings.

5) For shared or part-load, your household goods and personal belongings will be taken in our removal vans.

6) On arrival at port (we ship to all major ports in Switzerland), our local partner agents will handle the customs process for you. Once your shipment has been cleared and all customs fees and duties paid, it will be released for final delivery.

7) Your belongings will then be delivered to their final destination to your new home address or storage if required. Our partner will then unload your goods and unpack furniture to ensure all your belongings arrive safely.

If you are only sending a few personal belongings such as luggage and boxes, we recommend our baggage or box shipping service.

We can deliver boxes and other packing materials for you to self-pack. Once you are ready, we can collect them and deliver them to your address in Switzerland.

Our baggage shipping service for small moves includes up to about 20 boxes or suitcases and can include items such as TVs, bicycles, surfboards and toolboxes.

It does not, however include large items of furniture.

Items You Should Avoid Importing Into Switzerland

When relocating to Switzerland, you need to be aware of the items that are prohibited or restricted to avoid delays, fines or the confiscation of goods. Here are some key items you are not allowed to import into Switzerland:

• Importing counterfeit or pirated goods is illegal in Switzerland and doing so can result in severe penalties, including fines and confiscation of the items.
• Switzerland has strict regulations that govern the importation of weapons and firearms. Importing these without the necessary permits is prohibited.
• Importing narcotics and illegal drugs is strictly forbidden and punishable by law.
• Items made from endangered species, such as ivory, some animal skins and exotic plants, are not allowed to be imported into Switzerland. Doing so is prohibited under international conservation laws.
• Importing explosives and fireworks is heavily restricted and you’ll typically require specific permits to do so.
• Importing certain types of explicit materials may be restricted or prohibited, especially those involving violence or animals.
• Importing radioactive materials or substances without proper authorisation is strictly prohibited in Switzerland, due to significant health and safety risks. The case is the same for hazardous chemicals or substances without proper documentation.
• Certain species of animals and plants protected by international agreements cannot be imported without special permits. Importing certain plants, seeds, and plant products may require phytosanitary certificates and inspections to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.

For further guidance on import regulations, consult the official Swiss customs website or contact local customs offices in Switzerland. This will provide detailed information on items that can and cannot be imported into the region.

If you only have a small number of personal effects to send to Switzerland, then our air freight removal service is for you. We can provide you with boxes and cartons, or you can use your own bags and suitcases. This is the quickest removals service but also the most expensive. 

You can check out our more detailed Switzerland Removals Guide below, or why not give one of our advisers a call on 01942 559960?

They will be happy to answer all of your questions, give you some guideline prices, and arrange a home survey consultation to give you a more accurate price.

We recommend getting a few quotes for your move so you can compare the different styles of companies and ensure you are happy with their service. Make sure, however, that you are comparing like with like. For example, are the volumes the same? Is everything included?

Also, overseas removals are very different to domestic moves. It is therefore essential to ensure that your removalist is experienced, if not specialising in international moves.

We are confident that you’ll find your quote from United Removals to be very competitive and can be assured that standards of service are second to none.

In recent years, shipping costs have increased, so you may want to keep this in mind when you consider what you want to take with you to Switzerland and what you can leave behind. However, it isn’t all bad news; remember, it becomes relatively cheaper as you ship more.

You need to think about the cost involved in replacing some of your items in  if you are not sure about shipping them. Even when they are only small items, this cost can soon add up, particularly if there are many things.

Research the cost of replacement items as some things are more expensive, and some may not even be available – it may turn out that shipping them may be more economical in the long run.

Will you need storage in the UK or Switzerland?

Moving from one location in the UK to another is rarely the smooth process that people hope for, so it goes without saying that when you move to another country, the entire process can become a little trickier.

Often people find that they have a period once they have sold their property and before they move when they need to place their belongings in storage, and this is something we can help you with.

We have several storage solutions depending on your needs. We can arrange storage for your personal effects in the UK before they are shipped or in Switzerland after they arrive – whichever suits your situation.

Suppose the issue is that you do not have a fixed address in Switzerland to ship your belongings to. In that case, we can arrange for your household goods and personal effects to be placed in storage in Switzerland whilst you sort out accommodation.

Once you have a property ready, our local movers can arrange delivery of your belongings from storage.

Your belongings must be appropriately packed for shipping to Switzerland. The journey is a lengthy one, and they will be moved around from one form of transport to another more than once.

This means that there is a chance items could move within your shipping container, and if they are not adequately protected, then they could become damaged.

A high standard of export packing is, therefore, essential so it is recommended that you use a professional packing service. This will also save you a lot of time and stress.

Our team of professional packers is expertly trained to deal with all the issues that can be encountered with export wrapping. The boxes that we use to transport all of your smaller items are double-walled, and we also ensure that all of your furniture is export wrapped to ensure that it arrives in good condition at your destination.

For those delicate and fragile items, such as artwork and antiques, we can arrange specialist packing to offer better protection to your personal effects. This includes custom-built crates.

Our expert packing team is here to help you with as little or as much of your packing process as you want. We offer all of our customers the following packing services:

• Full international export standard packing & wrap service
• Fully trained export packers
• Provision of export quality boxes, cartons, packing paper & packing materials
• Custom wood casing/crates, if required
• Professional antique wrapping for delicate items
• Advice on preparing your items for transport to Switzerland
• Premium grade disinfectant available for outdoor items
• Full inventory list for customs

You may wish to start packing some boxes before your move day. Speak to our team about using export quality cartons, and remember you’ll need to keep an inventory of items for customs.

The Swiss government is quite stringent when it comes to biosecurity issues in order to protect their unique environment, and as such, all of your items will need to be cleaned thoroughly in preparation for shipping. This is especially the case when it comes to any outdoor items.

If you are planning to ship tools, bikes, garden equipment and BBQ then these will need to be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly. Our team can offer a professional disinfecting service that should clean all of your belongings thoroughly enough to keep the Customs inspectors happy.

Our international removals service is perfect for shipping your furniture to Switzerland from the UK.

For furniture removals, every item is carefully packed or ‘export wrapped’ using packing materials such as blanket wrap. All furniture pieces including sofas, armchairs, beds, tables and cupboards can be packed and shipped in a container.

As large items are bulky you consider which are cost effective to send. For example, most houses and apartments in Austria have built-in wardrobes so it might not be worthwhile shipping these.

You may wish to put your belongings in self-storage units whilst you are selling your property or waiting for your visa to come through.

Shipping your belongings to Switzerland from storage is a simple process. If your household belongings and furniture are in self-storage units in the UK, our team can arrange to collect them and professionally pack them for shipping either at the self-storage unit or back at our depot.

If you wish to pre-pack yourself, please ensure you have appropriate international shipping cartons/boxes and that everything is carefully wrapped and packed for its journey.

Many of our customers worry about customs clearance for all of their belongings when they arrive in Switzerland especially since Brexit. This is something that we can help you with. You may find the following information useful when planning your move.

If you are an EU citizen you should have no problem with customs. For non-EU citizens moving to Switzerland you are able to import used personal effects and household goods duty free but you should check that you meet the requirements and have all the correct documentation.

Customs regulations and duties are subject to change, so it can be a good idea to check for the most up-to-date guidelines and information.

If you do not meet the criteria for household effects, or it is deemed that your goods are commercial imports, then Customs duty and GST may be applied.

On arrival in Switzerland, your household goods and personal effects will require inspection and clearance from Swiss Customs before they are allowed into the country.

In order for your shipping container to be released, you will need to pay any Switzerland Customs inspections and customs fees, and also any quarantine fees. These will be payable locally. Our agents in Switzerland will be able to assist you with the customs clearance process.

The personal Move Coordinator who is assigned to you when you choose us to assist with your removal will be able to advise you with information regarding what you can and can’t take to Switzerland and how you can prepare and clean your items for shipping. If you prefer, our expert packers can help you with this.

United International Removals take great care to ensure your belongings are well-packed and taken care of during their journey. We only use accredited shipping lines and partners to ensure the highest service levels.

However, due to the nature of international shipping and removals, it is recommended that you take out your own maritime insurance policy or shipment protection cover for complete peace of mind. Just like when you mail a parcel overseas, the shipping company cannot cover the full value of your goods in the unlikely event of something going missing or being broken.

We can offer and recommend a highly flexible Shipment Protection Cover that will provide you with many advantages.

This cover is simple and easy to put in place. All that is required is completing a shipment protection valuation form detailing the items that need to be covered and their value.

The shipment protection costs are calculated on the value of the belongings you want to cover and whether you have packed them yourself or if they have been packed professionally.

There are a lot of fantastic destinations in Switzerland, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore life in a Swiss city or you want to relax in the countryside, you won’t struggle to find the ideal destination for you. With our expert relocation services, you can seamlessly move to any of the following destinations.

1. Geneva

Geneva, nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, is renowned for its international atmosphere and picturesque scenery. As a global hub for diplomacy and finance, it offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with world class museums, dining, and vibrant cultural events.

2. Bern

Bern is Switzerland’s capital, and it’s celebrated for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture and charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city boasts a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, with beautiful arcades, historical landmarks, and a lively cultural scene.

3. Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city, and it’s a bustling financial and cultural centre. It combines an urban environment with stunning natural landscapes, including its picturesque lake and surrounding mountains. Zurich offers a high quality of life with excellent public services, a thriving arts scene, and diverse dining options.

4. Basel

Basel, located on the banks of the Rhine River, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. The city hosts numerous festivals and fairs, including the renowned Art Basel. Basel’s historical architecture, combined with its lively cultural and social activities, makes it an exciting place to live.

5. Lausanne

Lausanne is famous for its stunning lake views and unique terrain. It is home to the International Olympic Committee and offers a blend of cultural richness, historic sites and modern amenities. Lausanne’s charming old town and active outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive city.

6. Lucerne

Lucerne, situated at the foot of the Swiss Alps and beside Lake Lucerne, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and well-preserved mediaeval architecture. The city is a gateway to mountain adventures and offers a picturesque lakefront and numerous cultural events. The scenic setting and friendly atmosphere make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

 From the stunning lakes of Lucerne to the vibrant cityscape of Zurich, Switzerland invites exploration with its diverse offerings for those looking to start a new chapter abroad. Whether you’re captivated by the cosmopolitan energy of Geneva or the tranquil beauty of the Alpine regions, Switzerland has something to suit every taste. Our team of relocation experts is ready to ensure your move to this remarkable country is smooth and well planned.

Switzerland has specific regulations regarding the importation of pets, designed to safeguard the health and safety of animals entering the country. Pets must be microchipped for identification and have a valid pet passport or veterinary certificate. The rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before entry, and pets should be at least 12 weeks old. Certain breeds of dogs may face additional restrictions, so it’s important to check specific regulations that apply to your pet. Ensure that all vaccinations and health records are up to date and properly documented.

When planning your pet’s travel to Switzerland, consider the method of transportation and the specific requirements of airlines or transport companies. Many airlines have specific regulations regarding pet carriers and may offer special services for travelling with animals.

Upon arrival in Switzerland, your pets may need to pass through customs and be inspected by a vet. Be prepared to present all required documentation, including the pet passport and vaccination records. Switzerland doesn’t require quarantine for pets meeting all entry requirements.

Switzerland’s job market is highly competitive, and it is important to research the industries and roles that align with your skills and qualifications. Cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne are major economic hubs with a high concentration of multinational companies and job opportunities. English is commonly used in international business environments, proficiency in one of Switzerland’s national languages – German, French or Italian – can greatly improve your job prospects, especially for roles in smaller companies or the public sector. If you are moving to a region where a specific language is predominantly spoken, investing in language courses can be beneficial.

Start your job search by utilising Swiss job portals such as jobs.ch, jobup.ch, and LinkedIn Switzerland. Tailoring your CV and cover letter to Swiss standards is important. You could also work with recruitment agencies that specialise in your field, as they can provide personalised assistance and access to job opportunities.

Switzerland is known for its efficient work culture, which often emphasises punctuality, precision and a strong work-life balance. Adapting to these cultural norms and demonstrating professionalism in interviews and at work will help you integrate smoothly into the Swiss work environment.

Securing a visa to move to Switzerland from the UK involves several steps, reflecting Switzerland’s position as a non-EU country with its own set of immigration regulations. Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, Swiss authorities have established clear pathways for British citizens looking to live and work in Switzerland.

The type of visa or permit you will need depends on the purpose of your move, whether it’s for work, study or a new life as a family. For example, to move for employment, you will need a work permit, which generally requires a job offer from a Swiss employer. Employers must often demonstrate that there are no suitable local candidates before hiring a non-EU national. Family members of Swiss residents or those holding a valid permit can apply for family reunification permits, subject to specific conditions.

The application process for a Swiss visa typically involves submitting a range of documents, including a valid passport, proof of accommodation in Switzerland, financial statements, and relevant certificates or diplomas. It’s important to gather all required documentation and ensure it meets Swiss standards. Applications are generally submitted to the Swiss consulate or embassy in the UK, or directly to the cantonal migration office in Switzerland, depending on your specific circumstances.

Swiss authorities require proof of adequate health insurance coverage before granting a visa. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents, and you must provide evidence that you have secured an appropriate policy that meets Swiss standards. Additionally, you need to demonstrate financial stability, showing that you have sufficient funds to support yourself.

Transferring money to Switzerland involves several considerations to ensure a smooth and cost-effective process. Many international banks and currency exchange services offer competitive rates for transferring funds between countries. Opting for specialised money transfer services can often provide better exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. Opening a local Swiss bank account can streamline your financial transactions and make money transfers more convenient.

We hope this information helps you with your move to Switzerland. If you need further assistance, or more information on the removals process, our knowledgeable team is here to help.