5 things to avoid when moving to and from Switzerland

Are you preparing to return to your home country or planning a new international adventure? Avoiding common mistakes during your international move will make sure your new beginning gets off to a good start. Whether you're relocating to or from Switzerland, here are five key pitfalls to watch out for - along with practical advice to help you avoid them.

1. Underestimating the time required for preparation

One of the most frequent errors made during an international relocation is underestimating how long preparations and administrative formalities can take. To minimise stress and ensure everything is in order, you should begin planning your move six to eight months in advance.

As soon as your departure date is confirmed, create a detailed timeline of all tasks, prioritising those that require the most time, such as:

• Securing accommodation
• Registering children in schools
• Searching for employment (if applicable)

A backwards planning schedule helps you stay on track and avoid last-minute complications.

2. Choosing the wrong moving company

Selecting an inexperienced or unreliable moving company can turn your international relocation into a logistical nightmare.

How to choose the right mover:

• Request at least three quotes to compare services, pricing and terms.
• Evaluate what’s included: packing, unpacking, storage, customs assistance, and so on.
• Check for certification from recognised industry organisations to ensure quality standards.
• Read customer reviews and testimonials.
• Assess the company’s responsiveness and support from the very first interaction.

Beware of very low-cost quotes: they often come with hidden compromises in service quality and reliability.

3. Miscalculating your moving budget

Another common mistake is underestimating the total cost of an international move. Hidden charges and unexpected expenses can quickly add up.

What to consider in your budget:

• Volume of items to move (calculate using home size or item dimensions)
• Mode of transport (air, sea, or road)
• Destination and origin countries
• Customs duties and import taxes
• Insurance and administrative fees

Consider groupage shipping

Opting for groupage, which is where you share container space with others moving in the same direction, can be a cost-effective solution. This significantly reduces your transport costs by distributing them among multiple clients.

4. Failing to adequately insure your belongings

While your moving company is required to offer basic insurance, it may not cover the full value of your possessions. To protect your goods against damage, loss or theft during transit, it’s strongly advised to:

• Take out additional insurance coverage
• Ensure your policy reflects the true value of your items

This extra step provides peace of mind throughout the move.

5. Ignoring customs regulations

Each country has its own import rules, restrictions, and documentation requirements. Failure to comply can result in delays, fines or even the seizure of certain belongings. 

What you need to know:

• Some goods may be prohibited or require special declarations (such as counterfeit items, cash, weapons, certain medicines, plants and animals)
• Switzerland has specific import restrictions and duty exemptions for transferees
• Keep all necessary documents ready and up to date

Always consult your moving company for guidance. A good moving company will be well-versed in customs procedures and can assist you every step of the way.