Notice to all customers moving to Switzerland

Following recent Swiss legislation, the Federal Customs Administration has implemented a series of measures to control importation of household goods shipments into the country. The Legal Reference is: art.8 - alinéa 3, de l'ordonnance de l'AFD (Administration fédérale des douanes) du 04.07.07 (OD-AFD RS 631.013)

In order to avoid import duties and taxes it is critical that all documents specified below are prepared and completed correctly in advance of your shipment arriving.

1. Customs form 18.44.
   This should be completed in full with original signature in blue. This must be sent by mail.
2. Inventory/Packing List.
   The inventory for all shipments must be submitted with the first shipment to arrive.
3. Declaration for importation of Household Goods
   Original copy required and signed
4. Copy of passport showing client's signature and photograph
5. Copy of the Swiss working permit
   Immigrants from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Spain, Greece, Ireland, Portugal, United Kingdom, Sweden, Malta & Cyprus are excluded from this requirement but must provide a copy of residence rental/purchase contract, or a copy of working contract, or a copy of the registration in the commune of residence.
6. Copy of residence rental/purchase contract
7. Declaration of Art Work
   A document confirming that any works of art in the shipment such as paintings, statues, or antique items do not contravene the UNESCO Convention of 14.11.1970.
8. Attestation from the Commune of Residence
   For Swiss nationals returning from abroad only.

If documents are not prepared on time or are not complete, then Swiss Customs Authorities will levy import taxes and duties calculated based on the weight of your shipment at a rate of CHF 50 - per 100 - kgs. Please be aware that these charges are not included in our quotation and that additional payment will be required to cover any duties or taxes.

If you have been obliged to pay duties and taxes as a result of incomplete documents you will need to apply for permanent customs clearance within 6 months of their arrival.

Once permanent customs clearance has been confirmed, you will be reimbursed the duties and taxes paid less CHF 44 for administrative fees retained by the Customs Authorities.

If no permanent customs clearance is complete within 6 months of the goods arrival the amount paid for taxes and duties will not be reimbursed.