Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Dec, 13 2025
International Moving Companies United Kingdom to Switzerland
Moving to Switzerland from the U.K. is cheaper than you might think. You can ship items by land, air freight or ocean transportation. In fact, moving a full container from the U.K. to Switzerland costs £2,400 - £3,300 and takes from 2 - 4 days. A half-container will save a couple hundred £ if you don’t have a need for the full 40 feet.
Importing my Household Goods
Remember, before you can import your household goods to Switzerland, you will need to already have your residence established. Your household goods are tax and duty free but are subject to inspection when you arrive.
To qualify for duty free import, your belongings must:
- Arrive in Switzerland within 24 months
- Have been owned and used by you in the U.K. for at least the past 6 months
You don’t have to send all your items at once, but if you do plan on having multiple shipments, you must announce those shipments when declaring your first shipment.
For customs clearance, you will need these documents:
- Passport – Make copies of the first 3 pages
- Customs Form 18.44 – Important: This document must include your current shipment, as well as your future shipments
- Detailed, Itemized Inventory – Make 3 copies
- Swiss Residence Permit
- Work Permit (employment contract)
- Declaration form
Clearing Goods Through Customs
Since Switzerland is a landlocked country in western Europe, surrounded by the EU and the European Economic Area nations, some border crossings in Switzerland are only sporadically staffed. This could mean that you will enter the country through a border crossing without encountering customs officials. In this event, you should make your declarations in writing.
Switzerland offers two other methods for clearing goods through customs:
- QuickZoll app
The QuickZoll app is the best source for information on customs declarations. This app can answer questions you may have about the Switzerland service customs process. - Verbal customs declaration
At a staffed border crossing, you will be asked to declare your goods at the border. This verbal declaration is legally binding, so be complete and accurate in your disclosures.
What are the Rules for Importing my Vehicle?
If you have owned and used your vehicle in the U.K. for at least six months, you can import it duty-free. One of the other requirements for duty-free imports is that you must continue to own the vehicle for at least a year after your arrival.
You will be asked to present the following documents:
- Passport
- Detailed inventory
- Clean Certificate of Title
- Proof of residency and employment in Switzerland
- Copy of your vehicle insurance and registration from the U.K.
- Driver’s license
- Form 18.44
- Proof of Swiss Vehicle Insurance
Our Services
Overseas moves require special skills. We are international carriers with expertise in international shipping regulations and connections with an extensive network of shipping partners. As a removal company of repute, we have the expertise to help you achieve a perfect haul.
We offer additional services including packing services and temporary storage facilities. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation affordable relocating quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
The average cost to move from the UK to Switzerland ranges between $3,500 and $8,500, depending on shipment size, distance, and service level. A 1-bedroom flat may cost around $3,500–$4,500, while a 4-bedroom home could exceed $8,000 for full-service packing and door-to-door delivery. Pricing depends on volume (in cubic feet), access conditions, packing labor, customs handling, and seasonal demand. For tailored quotes and customs-ready transport options, explore our international moving services.
Transit from the UK to Switzerland typically takes 3 to 7 days for road freight and 1 to 2 weeks for full container moves. Timelines vary with customs clearance, weather across the Alps, truck routing, and the type of service (groupage or dedicated). Peak months like May through August may extend delivery times slightly due to high volume. Learn more through our international moving company ratings.
Pricing depends on shipment volume, distance between cities, packing labor, access at both locations, and import documentation. Additional costs apply for storage, fragile-item handling, or customs inspection delays. Moves from cities like London or Manchester to Zurich or Geneva often include road tolls and ferry crossings, which can affect total cost. Use our average cost of movers calculator to estimate before booking.
Switzerland is outside the EU, so customs clearance is mandatory. Used household goods are usually duty-free if you’ve owned them for over six months and plan to reside there. Required documents include passport, residence permit, detailed inventory, and proof of address. Some items like alcohol, weapons, and plants require special permits. For full compliance, consult official customs guidance at FMCSA or your relocation agent.
Yes, most international movers coordinate vehicle shipping and pet relocation. Vehicles must meet Swiss registration and emissions standards, while pets require microchips, vaccinations, and veterinary certificates before entry. These specialized services are often quoted separately from household goods. Trusted full-service carriers like long distance moving specialists can bundle logistics for smoother customs and delivery.
The spring and early autumn months (April–June and September–October) offer optimal weather and lower traffic through Alpine passes. Summer is peak season, with higher rates and limited availability, while winter moves can face snow-related delays. Booking at least 6–8 weeks in advance ensures timely customs scheduling and preferred delivery windows.
