How to effortlessly take your furniture to Switzerland

Moving to Switzerland sounds like an exciting adventure, but importing your furniture can raise some questions. Because Switzerland is not an EU country, you must let your moving belongings go through customs. The good news? Thanks to a trade agreement between the EU and Switzerland, you usually don't have to pay import taxes. Of course, you have to comply with a number of rules.

Certain items, such as alcohol, weapons, cars, pets, and food, are subject to stricter rules and are not discussed here. Do you want to take your furniture and other personal items from the EU to Switzerland? Then read on and find out how to prepare properly.

What conditions do you have to meet?

To move your furniture and personal belongings to Switzerland tax-free, there are a few conditions:

• Place of residence in Switzerland: You must be able to prove that you have a home in Switzerland, for example with a rental or purchase contract.
• At least 6 months of use: The items you import must have been in use for at least 6 months.
• Use in Switzerland: You must actually continue to use the imported assets in Switzerland.
• Crossing during opening hours: You must cross the border during customs office opening hours.

What are the customs formalities?

When crossing the border, you must have a number of documents with you. Make sure you prepare these to make your move go smoothly:

1. Inventory list:
   Make a complete list of the items you're taking with you, in English or German. List all items, such as “3 boxes of clothes”, “2 boxes of dishes”, or “1 bed”. Separate rules apply to valuables, alcohol or food; you must describe them in detail.
2. Customs form:
   Complete the form for duty-free entry of your assets in duplicate.
3. Identity document:
   Make sure you have a valid passport or identity card with you.
4. Goodbye in country of origin:
   Show a document showing that you have registered your departure with the authorities in your home country.
5. Swiss residence permit:
   Or another document that confirms your move, such as an employment agreement or rental agreement.
6. Driver's license or vehicle registration certificate:
   Do you have a vehicle with you? Bring the foreign driving license or registration certificate, even if it is no longer valid.
7. Housing documentation:
   Proof of buying or renting your Swiss home.

Smart tips for a smooth move

• Plan your border crossing: It's not mandatory to plan your border crossing in advance, but it often speeds up the process. At many customs offices, you can send your transfer file in advance by email (at least 2 days in advance). For Basel/Weil, a popular border crossing, use zoll.basel_nord@bazg.admin.ch.
• Pay attention to the weight of your car: Do you take a lot of stuff with you? Then check that your car is not overloaded. The maximum weight is stated in your registration certificate. Remember to include the weight of the occupants to avoid fines or dangerous situations.

Good to know: you have 2 years to bring your belongings to Switzerland tax-free under the conditions mentioned. So no stress if you can't take everything with you at once!

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