Moving To Switzerland
Importing Goods To Switzerland
Importing Your Personal Effects
Switzerland has always been a popular European destination for people looking to move overseas. Consequently Britannia has been providing an excellent shipping and removal service to this location for many years. Household and personal effects can be transported to Switzerland in various ways; overland by road van, by sea containers or by air.
Custom clearance/documentation
As Switzerland is not a member of the EU it will be necessary to clear your goods through customs on arrival. In general you will have to satisfy the authorities that you have the necessary status to be domiciled in Switzerland. You will have to prove you have obtained accommodation, a work permit if you are intending to take up employment and complete a Swiss Customs Declaration. Britannia can provide the necessary customs forms and other information on importing household effects.
Transit Times
Transit times can vary subject to the method of transport chosen, size of your consignment and the final destination. Britannia will advise you once this information is established.
Prohibitions and Restrictions
In general it is in your interest not to import the following items:
- Firearms & ammunition
- Inflammable goods & substances
- Plants & plant material
- Perishables or otherwise
- Alcohol, narcotics and dangerous goods
- Offensive material
There are restrictions in transporting some classes of goods across borders and within some countries. Several countries restrict the value or volume/weight of such goods as alcohol, tobacco and cigarettes. Recent changes to legislation in Europe means that it is now forbidden to travel through France in any vehicle carrying more than a minimal amount of cigarettes or alcohol. If a vehicle is stopped and searched and these are found amongst household effects there are huge fines plus the costs of delays to the vehicle and costs to any third parties who are thus also affected.
Computer Tracking
Through satellite and computer technology we are able to monitor the progress of your consignment.
Bar Coding
All Groupage consignments will be bar coded before they are loaded into the shipping container. This will ensure that no items are left at origin.
Domestic Pets
Britannia can recommend a specialised shipper of animals to assist you in sending your family pet(s) from home to home. They will coordinate all documentation and necessary veterinary procedures.
Motor Vehicles
Importation of motor vehicles to Switzerland will be subject to compliance, it is probable that duty and tax will apply. Shipment of right-hand vehicles is not recommended.
Insurance
Britannia Movers International is regulated by the Financial Services Authority and accordingly is authorised to provide fully comprehensive marine insurance cover. An insurance pack will be forwarded to you with your quotation.
Money Transfer
Britannia are also able to recommend a Currency Broker who should give you a more competitive rate than your Bank and save you money.
Storage
Should you require storage prior to delivery this can be arranged. You should expect to pay locally a one off storage handling fee, plus a monthly storage charge. Please ensure that your marine insurance policy is extended for the period of the storage.
Destination Services
If you have selected a full door to door service Britannia will deliver the goods to your new home. Goods will be placed in the relevant rooms. All furniture will be unwrapped and cartons packed by Britannia will be unpacked on to a flat surface and all used packing materials will be removed from site on the delivery day. Although there will be insurance implications you retain the right not to have some or all items unpacked should you choose.
Alternative destination services are available subject to final destination and method of transport, Britannia can advise you of the options available.
On Arrival
Britannia can offer advice and information on a variety of aspects relating to living in Switzerland.
