Switzerland is famous for its stunning landscapes, high standard of living, and excellent public services. From the cosmopolitan cities of Zurich and Geneva to the scenic alpine regions, Switzerland offers a safe, efficient, and well-structured environment for expatriates and families.
At A1 Relocations, we manage your move end-to-end, ensuring that your household goods are safely transported, cleared through Swiss customs, and delivered to your new home with care.
🌏 Why Move to Switzerland?
Switzerland is renowned for its strong economy, exceptional healthcare system, and world-class education. Cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Bern provide high-quality urban living, while smaller towns and alpine regions offer a peaceful and picturesque lifestyle.
Key highlights:
- High quality of life and safety
- Multilingual society (German, French, Italian)
- Excellent public transport and healthcare system
- Beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and mountains
- Strong focus on work-life balance
Whether you prefer a city lifestyle with career opportunities or a quieter life in scenic surroundings, Switzerland provides an ideal setting for a new chapter.
💰 Cost of Living in Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the more expensive countries in Europe, particularly Zurich and Geneva.
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Apartment (1-bedroom, city center) | 1,500–2,500 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | 150–250 |
| Groceries & dining out | 400–700 |
| Public transport | 80–150 |
| Private healthcare visit | 80–150 |
Many expatriates receive support from employers to offset housing or relocation costs.
🏡 Housing and Popular Cities
Switzerland offers diverse housing options, from modern city apartments to lakeside villas and alpine chalets.
Popular cities:
- Zurich – Financial hub with cosmopolitan lifestyle
- Geneva – International city with global organizations and multicultural living
- Basel – Cultural capital with a strong industrial sector
- Bern – Administrative center with historic charm
A1 Relocations ensures that your belongings are delivered safely and unpacked professionally in your new home.
📦 Shipping & Customs Regulations for Switzerland
Shipping household goods and personal effects to Switzerland requires careful documentation and compliance with customs regulations. A1 Relocations guides you through every step for smooth clearance.
📄 Documents Required
- Copy of passport
- Copy of Bill of Lading (OBL) / Air Waybill (AWB) – Provided by A1 Relocations
- Originally signed Customs Form 18.44 (application for duty & tax-free clearance of removal goods)
- Supplemental declaration for alcoholic products
- Detailed inventory list
- Copy of residence permit (if applicable)
- Copy of work contract or employment letter (if residence permit not yet issued)
- Registration at local Swiss town hall
- Copy of lease agreement or property title
- Detailed packing list in German, French, Italian, or English
- Proof of stay abroad for more than 1 year (returning citizens)
Original Customs Form 14.60 and Carte de Légitimation for diplomats
ℹ️ Important Customs Information
- Used household goods and personal effects can generally be imported duty and tax free.
- Items must be owned and used abroad for at least 6 months prior to import and intended for personal use.
- Returning Swiss citizens qualify for duty-free import if their employment abroad exceeded 12 months.
- All documents must be available at the time of customs clearance; missing documents may result in temporary clearance with deposits or fees.
- Later shipments should be listed on the original inventory; customs may allow up to 24 months to clear additional shipments.
- Diplomatic shipments require a Carte de Légitimation, which takes approximately 2 months to obtain.
- Cars are not eligible for duty-free import.
- Unaccompanied hand baggage consisting of personal effects or books may be imported duty-free with an accompanying inventory.
- Import for secondary homes (purchase or rental) is duty-free if imported near the time of contract issuance.
🧳 Moving to Switzerland: What to Expect
Transit times:
- Sea freight: 2–5 weeks from Asia
- Air freight: 3–7 days
Customs clearance:
- Typically 1–2 weeks depending on documentation and inspections
Services provided by A1 Relocations:
- Door-to-door moving services
- Professional packing and unpacking
- Short- and long-term storage
- Customs and documentation support
- Delivery and setup at destination
🌄 Life in Switzerland
Switzerland offers a blend of modern urban living and stunning natural beauty. Residents enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and sailing, along with top-quality healthcare and education. The country’s multilingual culture and safety make it ideal for expatriates seeking a high standard of living.
✈️ Move to Switzerland with Confidence
A1 Relocations ensures your relocation is handled professionally and efficiently, from packing and shipping to customs clearance and delivery. We manage every detail so you can settle smoothly into your new Swiss lifestyle.
📞 Ready to relocate to Switzerland?
Contact A1 Relocations for expert guidance and a customized moving plan.
A1 Relocations – Making your move to Switzerland effortless.
