At SDC International Shipping, we are dedicated to helping our customers reach their desired destinations. If you’re considering a move from the USA to Switzerland, we understand there are countless reasons to fall in love with this beautiful country. Despite being landlocked, Switzerland’s central location in Europe provides a unique advantage, granting easy access to neighboring countries such as Germany, Italy, and France.

Shipping household goods to Switzerland, however, requires a more complex process. It involves initially sending your belongings to one of the European countries with access to the sea or ocean, before transporting them overland to your new Swiss home.

With over a decade of experience in arranging moves to Switzerland from the USA, SDC International Shipping is equipped to handle every aspect of your relocation. No matter your destination within Switzerland, our goal is to ensure a worry-free transition.

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Smoothly Clearing Your Household Items for Switzerland

To ensure the successful entry of your belongings into Switzerland, customs clearance is a crucial step. Inaccurate completion or omission of customs clearance forms can lead to potential denials or delays by Swiss customs. You have the option to handle the paperwork yourself or entrust it to our experienced international household movers. Rest assured, we will meticulously handle all the packing and paperwork, ensuring your items are cleared by customs and comply with all import requirements.

Below are the essential documents required to clear your shipment from customs:

1. Form 18.44
2. Inventory list
3. Copy of passport
4. Copy of residence permit
5. Copy of rental or purchase agreement for your new house

Please note that for items being moved to Switzerland from the USA, they must have been used for a minimum of six months prior to shipping. By fulfilling this requirement, you can avoid duties and other taxes. However, depending on the specific items being shipped, there may be situations where additional documentation or customs taxes are necessary.

At SDC International Shipping, we diligently navigate the customs clearance process to ensure a seamless transition for your household items.

Efficiently Transporting Your Vehicles to Switzerland

If you intend to ship your car or vehicle to Switzerland, it must meet certain eligibility criteria to qualify for tax and duty exemption. Specifically, you should have owned the vehicle for at least six months, and you are not permitted to sell it within one year of your arrival. Once in Switzerland, you have up to 365 days to register your automobile.

Including the car in your personal effects inventory list is essential. To import and register the vehicle, you will need the following set of documentation:

1. 13.20A (customs expert report)
2. 18.44 form (customs authorization)
3. 15.30 form (for foreign employees or students)
4. Technical certificate
5. Vehicle license
6. Number plates

While some non-EU/EFTA countries may require a test drive for driving on foreign licenses, this rule does not apply to US citizens.

Feeling overwhelmed by these requirements? Are you seeking to eliminate the added workload? SDC International Shipping is here to assist you as an expert international car and vehicle mover, ensuring a seamless and stress-free process.

Determining the Cost of Shipping a Vehicle to Switzerland

Several factors come into play when calculating the cost of shipping a car to Switzerland:

1. Import duties: Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be required to pay import duties.
2. Origin in the US: The country of origin, in this case, the US, can impact shipping costs.
3. Compliance with Swiss technical specifications: Modifications may be necessary to meet Swiss technical specifications, which can affect the overall cost.
4. Exchange of license plates: The process of exchanging license plates may incur additional expenses.
5. Choice of service: The shipping service you select will contribute to the final cost.

When considering importing a car to Switzerland, it’s crucial to account for other expenses during your stay in the country. These include annual road tax, mandatory third-party liability insurance, and the Swiss motorway vignette.

If you’re uncertain about whether it’s worthwhile to bring your vehicle with you, feel free to contact our SDC logistics experts for professional advice. We’re more than happy to discuss the intricacies of your move.

Do You Need Insurance to Ship Your Items?

While it is technically possible to ship your possessions without ocean transit insurance, opting out means you will not receive compensation in the event of damage or loss. International moving insurance provides the necessary coverage to secure partial or full reimbursement for your items.

At SDC International Shipping, we understand the significance of insurance for your peace of mind. Our team can guide you through various coverage options tailored to the value of your belongings and your specific requirements.

We prioritize the protection of your items during transit, and our experts are ready to assist you in selecting the most appropriate insurance coverage.

Efficient and Secure Transportation of Pianos and Artwork to Switzerland

Whether you need to relocate an antique piano or transport valuable artwork, SDC International Shipping provides reliable and specialized removal services to Switzerland. Our experienced crew is trained to handle delicate and prized belongings with the utmost care. With a decade of experience in home removals, we guarantee top-quality service and professional packing techniques.

If you require more information on our overseas artwork shipping services or need dedicated piano movers, we have you covered. Trust in our expertise to ensure the safe and successful transportation of your cherished possessions.

Shipping Options: Ocean Freight or Air Freight to Switzerland

When shipping your belongings to Switzerland, you have the choice between ocean freight and air freight.

Ocean freight is the most popular and cost-effective option. If you are comfortable with a longer transit time of several weeks, this is the recommended choice. It offers affordability and is ideal for those who do not require immediate delivery.

On the other hand, air freight provides a faster transit time, allowing you to receive your items within 2-3 days. However, for shipments weighing over 100 kg, the costs can be significantly higher.

Regardless of whether you choose sea or air freight, your items will be shipped in appropriately sized containers. You can opt for a Full Container Load (FCL) service if you require a full container for your belongings, or you can choose Less than Container Load (LCL) service, where you share container space with other customers.

At SDC International Shipping, we specialize in containerized freight and are fully equipped to assist you in developing a comprehensive plan that meets your specific shipping needs.

Moving to Switzerland from the USA with SDC International: A Professional and Reliable Experience

Building a reputation on how we do what we do.

“SDC International movers handled our move to Switzerland in its entirety. It could not have been done more professionally than it was. We constantly received updates on the shipping process. The import clearing of the container was completed within two days. Items received undamaged. I have no hesitation in recommending SDC.” Pia L.

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Required Documentation when moving to Switzerland:

• Passport
• Residence permit
• Lease agreement or property title
• Inventory list in English, German, French, and Italian

Customs Regulations when moving to Switzerland:

• The owner must be present in Switzerland during the importation process to clear used household goods duty-free.
• Household goods may be imported duty-free if they have been owned for a minimum of six months.

Restricted Items when moving to Switzerland:

• New items (less than six months old)
• Bulk foods
• Alcohol (subject to high taxes)

Prohibited Items when moving to Switzerland:

• Drugs
• Weapons (sporting weapons may be approved with the necessary permits)
• Cleaning fluids

Vehicle Regulations when moving to Switzerland:

• Vehicles can be imported duty-free if they have been owned for more than six months and will not be sold within twelve months of import.
• Vehicles must undergo inspection to obtain permission for importation.
• All necessary documents and compliance with Swiss government regulations are required for vehicle importation.

Please note that additional documents and permissions may be required depending on your specific circumstances. It is advisable to carefully review the detailed information provided by the Swiss government regarding the importation of household goods and vehicles.