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Moving to Switzerland

International Moving to Switzerland from USA - Nilson Van and Storage
International moves to Switzerland - Nilson Van and Storage
Big Moves. Small Moves. All the Same Care
Trusted Door-to-Door International Relocation Services

Moving to Switzerland from USA

Relocating to Switzerland is a move defined by precision, planning, and high expectations. Whether you are transferring for a senior corporate role, diplomatic appointment, or private relocation, international moving to Switzerland from USA requires far more than basic international shipping. Switzerland’s non-EU customs status, landlocked geography, and strict transport regulations demand a level of logistical discipline that few movers are equipped to handle correctly.

Nilson Van and Storage delivers international relocation services that meet the Swiss standard—accurate, punctual, and carefully managed from start to finish. We specialize in complex international moves where documentation, timing, and execution must align perfectly. From white-glove packing at your U.S. residence to final delivery at your Swiss home, every phase of your move is coordinated with clarity and control.

If you are seeking stress-free customs clearance, predictable timelines, and premium service, Nilson Van and Storage provides the expertise required for a seamless relocation to Switzerland.

Transport Restrictions in Switzerland

Planning Around Sunday and Night Trucking Bans

Switzerland enforces strict regulations on commercial transport, including:

  • No commercial trucking on Sundays
  • Night driving bans during designated hours

These rules are strictly enforced and directly impact delivery scheduling. Failure to plan around them can result in missed delivery windows or added storage costs.

Nilson Van and Storage builds these restrictions into every Swiss relocation plan:

  • Scheduling border crossings strategically
  • Aligning delivery appointments with legal driving hours
  • Coordinating city permits and access windows

This level of planning ensures punctual delivery without regulatory complications.

International Move Planning

Streamline your next relocation with the the best moving company. Let us handle the heavy lifting while you enjoy a seamless, stress-free move.

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Custom Solutions for Every Business

Comprehensive relocation services tailored to meet your industry’s unique demands.

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Seamless Planning and Execution

Expert coordination to ensure a smooth, efficient move from start to finish.

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Prohibited and Restricted Items in Switzerland

What Cannot Be Shipped

Swiss customs enforces strict controls on certain imports. Commonly restricted or prohibited items include:

  • Meat and animal products
  • Weapons and ammunition
  • Certain food items
  • Hazardous materials

Reviewing restricted items before packing is essential to avoid customs complications. Nilson Van and Storage provides guidance early in the planning phase to prevent issues at clearance.

Your Reliable Partner for Stress-Free International Relocation!

Why Switzerland Requires a Different Level of International Moving Expertise

Switzerland is not simply another European destination. It operates under its own customs framework, transport laws, and border controls that differ significantly from EU member states. For clients relocating from the United States, these distinctions directly affect shipping routes, documentation, delivery scheduling, and cost exposure.

Unlike moves to EU countries, moving to Switzerland customs regulations are enforced at the border, not only at port. This means that even after arriving in Europe, shipments must still clear Swiss customs before delivery can occur. Without expert coordination, delays, inspections, or unexpected taxes can arise quickly.

Nilson Van and Storage approaches Swiss relocations with a logistics-first mindset—anticipating regulatory requirements rather than reacting to them.

Expert Movers Near You

Comprehensive Moving Services in Columbia, SC

As a reliable movers in Columbia SC, Nilson Van and Storage provides a full range of relocation services tailored to meet the diverse needs of Columbia’s residents, businesses, and government agencies. Our expertise spans across local and international relocations, secure storage solutions, and specialized services like electronic moving and corporate employee relocations. We ensure that every move is handled with care and precision, delivering the same attention to detail whether we’re relocating a family, a business, or a military operation. With our experience and resources, we guarantee that your belongings are safe, your timeline is met, and your expectations are exceeded. Hire expert movers in Columbia SC today.

Switzerland’s Non-EU Customs Status

Why Form 18.44 Is Critical for Duty-Free Entry

A key trust-building factor when relocating to Switzerland is understanding that Switzerland is not part of the EU Customs Union. Even if your shipment arrives through an EU port, it must still clear Swiss customs separately.

Form 18.44 Explained

For most household goods relocations, Swiss customs requires Form 18.44 (Declaration/Application for clearance of household effects). This document is essential for:

  • Declaring used household goods
  • Applying for duty-free import eligibility
  • Confirming change of residence

Errors or omissions on Form 18.44 can result in:

  • Customs delays
  • Inspections
  • Import taxes or VAT assessments

Nilson Van and Storage prepares and coordinates Form 18.44 documentation in advance, working with Swiss customs agents to ensure compliance and timely release. This is a core reason clients choose our relocation services USA to Switzerland—we eliminate guesswork at the border.

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85 +
Years of Experience
The Landlocked Factor

How We Move Your Household Goods Into Switzerland

One of the most critical considerations when international moving to Switzerland from USA is geography. Switzerland has no sea ports, which fundamentally changes how international shipments are routed.

How Swiss Shipments Move Through Europe

Household goods shipments destined for Switzerland typically arrive at major European ports such as:

  • Rotterdam (Netherlands)
  • Antwerp (Belgium)

From there, goods are transported inland via secured trucking or rail freight into Switzerland. This cross-border movement must be carefully coordinated to align with Swiss customs clearance, transport restrictions, and delivery windows.

Nilson Van and Storage manages this entire process seamlessly:

  • Coordinating port handling and deconsolidation
  • Arranging bonded inland transport into Switzerland
  • Scheduling customs clearance at the Swiss border
  • Managing final delivery logistics

This integrated approach ensures your shipment moves efficiently from port to Swiss residence without unnecessary handling or delays.

Let's Get Moving

The International Moving Process with Nilson Van and Storage

When moving to Switzerland from the USA, a clear process makes all the difference. Our streamlined three-step approach keeps your relocation organized, efficient, and fully managed from start to finish.

Request a Free Quote - Nilson Van and Storage

Request a Free Quote

Contact us to receive a detailed, personalized moving estimate tailored to your unique needs.

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Schedule Your Move

Select your preferred moving date. Our expert team will take care of all details from start to finish.

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Get Back to What Matters

Relax and focus on settling in while we ensure a seamless and stress-free moving experience.

Why Choose Nilson Van and Storage for Switzerland

Relocating to Switzerland requires precision. As a non-EU country with strict customs regulations, even small mistakes can lead to delays, unexpected costs, or compliance issues.

Nilson Van and Storage prevents these risks through proactive planning and expert coordination—before your shipment ever reaches Europe.

What Sets Our Swiss Relocations Apart

  • Swiss Customs Expertise: In-depth knowledge of non-EU customs procedures to ensure duty-free clearance where applicable.

  • Accurate Documentation: All paperwork, inventories, and Swiss-specific forms prepared correctly the first time.

  • Precise Transport Coordination: Carefully planned European inland transport aligned with Swiss driving restrictions and delivery regulations.

  • Dedicated Communication: A single move coordinator provides clear updates and realistic timelines throughout your relocation.

Predictability Is the True Luxury

The true value of an experienced Swiss relocation partner is predictability. With Nilson Van and Storage, your move is compliant, on schedule, and free from unexpected costs—allowing you to focus on your transition, not logistics.

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Reliable & Transparent Pricing
Customized Moving Plans - Nilson Van and Storage
Customized Moving Plans
Flexible & Convenient Scheduling - Nilson Van and Storage
Flexible & Convenient Scheduling
Customer-Focused Support - Nilson Van and Storage
Customer-Focused Support
Popular Swiss Destinations We Serve

We provide international relocation services throughout Switzerland

Switzerland’s cities and regions each operate under distinct local regulations, access constraints, and delivery conditions. Successful international moving to Switzerland from USA depends on understanding not just national customs requirements, but also the practical realities of delivering into specific cantons, cities, and residential environments. Nilson Van and Storage plans every relocation with these regional differences in mind, ensuring compliance, punctuality, and seamless final delivery.

Moving to Zurich

As Switzerland’s largest city and financial center, Zurich is a primary destination for corporate transferees in banking, finance, and professional services. Relocations here often involve urban apartments, controlled parking zones, and strict delivery scheduling.

IMoving to Geneva

Geneva is a global diplomatic hub, home to the United Nations, permanent missions, and international organizations. Moves into Geneva frequently require heightened discretion, precise documentation, and coordination with building management or security teams.

Moving to Basel

Basel is a major center for pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and research institutions. Corporate relocations to Basel often involve senior executives and specialized professionals with high-value household goods.

Moving to Bern

As Switzerland’s capital, Bern is home to government offices and administrative institutions. Relocations here often involve civil servants, international staff, and long-term assignments. We plan for regulated delivery environments, administrative housing areas, and compliance with local access and transport rules.

Moving to Zug

Zug is well known for its favorable tax environment and concentration of high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and international executives. Moves to Zug typically involve private residences and elevated expectations for discretion, efficiency, and asset protection.

Moving to Lausanne

Lausanne attracts academic professionals, executives, and international staff affiliated with universities, research institutions, and multinational organizations. Relocations often involve apartments near academic campuses or residential neighborhoods with access considerations.

Moving to Lucerne

We provide professional moving services to Lucerne, handling expert packing, international shipping, and customs support. Our experienced team ensures a smooth, secure, and stress-free relocation with careful handling and reliable door-to-door delivery throughout your move.

Moving to Lugano

Our moving services to Lugano include export-grade packing, efficient shipping, and customs coordination. With skilled movers managing every detail, we deliver a seamless, safe, and worry-free relocation supported by dependable door-to-door service from start to finish.

Ready to Relocate? Let's Make Your Move Stress-Free!

Premium Solutions for High-Expectation Moves

Our Switzerland Relocation Services

Relocating to Switzerland requires a higher level of coordination, documentation accuracy, and logistical discipline than most international moves. Corporate transferees, diplomats, and private clients expect timelines to be honored, assets to be protected, and regulatory requirements to be handled correctly the first time. Our Swiss relocation services are designed specifically for these expectations, combining structured planning with meticulous execution at every stage of the move. Nilson Van & Storage delivers fully managed, door-to-door relocation services USA to Switzerland, tailored to the complexities of non-EU customs clearance, inland European transport, and Swiss delivery regulations. Each service is performed with precision and supported by experienced professionals who understand that in Switzerland, details are not optional—they are essential.

White-Glove Export Packing

International relocations to Switzerland frequently involve more than standard household goods. Corporate executives, diplomats, and private clients often relocate with high-value furnishings, fine art, antiques, musical instruments, and precision items that require exceptional handling. When international moving to Switzerland from USA, proper export packing is not just a service—it is a risk-management necessity.

Nilson Van & Storage provides white-glove export packing specifically designed for international transport and non-EU customs environments. Every item is evaluated individually and packed using methods that account for long ocean transit, inland European transport, border clearance handling, and final delivery under Swiss regulations.

Our white-glove packing process is methodical, documented, and executed by trained professionals who understand the expectations associated with premium international relocations.

Our white-glove packing standards include:

Custom Crating for Artwork, Antiques, and Fragile Items

High-value and delicate items are protected with custom-built wooden crates designed to immobilize contents and absorb shock during transit. This is particularly important for fine art, sculptures, antiques, and collectibles being shipped to Switzerland.

Export-Grade Packing Materials

We use materials specifically engineered for international shipping, including reinforced cartons, moisture-resistant wrapping, and protective padding suited for extended transit and variable climate conditions.

Item-Specific Packing Techniques

Furniture, electronics, instruments, and specialty items are packed according to their individual construction and sensitivity, not treated as general cargo. This level of care reduces the risk of damage during handling and border transfers.

Detailed, Accurate Inventories for Customs Clearance

Each packed item is documented clearly and precisely, supporting compliance with Swiss customs requirements and documentation such as Form 18.44. Accurate inventories help reduce the likelihood of inspections or clearance delays.

Alignment with Insurance and Valuation Requirements

Proper packing is essential when selecting optional marine coverage. Our packing methods support declared values and provide clear documentation should a claim review be required.

This level of packing is especially valued by clients shipping household goods to Zurich, Geneva, and other Swiss cities, where customs scrutiny, inland transport standards, and delivery expectations are high. White-glove export packing ensures that your belongings arrive not only on time, but in the same condition they left—meeting the standards expected in Switzerland.

With Nilson Van & Storage, white-glove packing is not an upgrade—it is an integral part of delivering international relocation services with precision, accountability, and confidence.

Answers to Your Moving Questions

FAQs - Moving to Switzerland

  • How long does international moving to Switzerland from the USA take?

    International moving to Switzerland from the USA typically takes 6 to 10 weeks when shipping household goods by sea, depending on origin location, port routing, customs clearance, and inland transport into Switzerland. Because Switzerland is landlocked, shipments usually arrive via ports such as Rotterdam or Antwerp before moving by truck or rail. Customs clearance, Form 18.44 processing, and delivery scheduling around Swiss transport restrictions can also affect the final timeline.

  • Is Switzerland part of the EU for customs purposes?

    No, Switzerland is not part of the EU Customs Union. When international moving to Switzerland from USA, household goods must clear Swiss customs separately at the border, even if they arrive through an EU port. This is why Swiss-specific documentation, including Form 18.44, is required. Working with experienced relocation services USA to Switzerland helps ensure goods qualify for duty-free entry and avoid unexpected taxes or delays.

  • What is Form 18.44 in Switzerland?

    Form 18.44 is the Swiss customs declaration used to apply for duty-free import of used household goods when relocating to Switzerland. It confirms a change of residence and is a critical requirement when international moving to Switzerland from USA. Errors or missing information on this form can result in customs delays or import charges, which is why it should be prepared and reviewed well before shipment arrival.

  • Can I ship household goods to Zurich or Geneva easily?

    Shipping household goods to Zurich or Geneva is common, but it requires careful planning. Both cities have regulated delivery zones, parking restrictions, and strict scheduling rules. International moving to Switzerland from USA often involves advance permit coordination, precise delivery windows, and compliance with Sunday and night trucking bans. Experienced movers plan these details to ensure smooth, legal delivery without rescheduling or added costs.

  • Are there driving or delivery restrictions in Switzerland?

    Yes, Switzerland enforces strict transport regulations, including bans on commercial trucking on Sundays and during nighttime hours. These rules directly affect delivery scheduling when international moving to Switzerland from USA. Failure to plan around these restrictions can lead to missed delivery windows or storage charges. Professional relocation services USA to Switzerland build these rules into the logistics plan from the start.

  • What items are prohibited when moving to Switzerland?

    Switzerland has strict import controls on certain items. Prohibited or restricted goods often include meat products, weapons, ammunition, certain food items, and hazardous materials. When international moving to Switzerland from USA, shipping restricted items can delay customs clearance or result in penalties. Reviewing prohibited items in advance helps prevent issues at the Swiss border.

  • Can I move to Switzerland duty-free from the USA?

    Yes, many clients qualify for duty-free import of household goods when international moving to Switzerland from USA, provided requirements are met. Goods must generally be used personal effects, and documentation such as Form 18.44 must be properly completed. Swiss customs reviews each case individually, so accurate paperwork and timing are essential to avoid taxes or import duties.

  • Do I need to be present in Switzerland for customs clearance?

    In most cases, yes. Swiss customs often requires the owner or an authorized representative to be available during customs clearance and delivery. When international moving to Switzerland from USA, coordinating your arrival with shipment timing helps prevent delays and storage charges. Your relocation provider can advise on authorization options if personal presence is not possible.

  • Is Switzerland a good destination for corporate relocations?

    Switzerland is a top destination for corporate relocations, especially in finance, pharmaceuticals, and international organizations. However, international moving to Switzerland from USA involves complex customs, inland transport, and regulatory requirements. Corporate transferees benefit from relocation services USA to Switzerland that prioritize accuracy, predictable timelines, and compliance to support smooth professional transitions.

Client’s review

Our Happy Clients

3.8
Based on 53 reviews
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Jessica Cribb profile pictureJessica Cribb
01:33 02 Apr 25
Nilson Van and Storage did a wonderful job helping us move from their customer service to the move itself. Karen did a wonderful job through out the consultation and ensuring all our questions were answered in regards to packing. Theresa made sure to follow up all throughout the process, making sure everything was taken care of prior to the crew arriving to even after, which was very much needed in the chaos of moving! And of course Stanley and his crew were amazing! Even after being stuck in traffic with delays they did not waste a single minute getting all of our items on the truck for transit. All of our items arrived in great shape, and the guys made sure everything was placed exactly where we wanted it! I am so glad we went with their company, it made our move hastle free!
Response from the owner 22:13 02 Apr 25
Thanks for sharing the good news about your move, Jessica! We're so happy to hear that everything went well and pleased that our team could put you at ease during what can often be a stressful time. We appreciate the positive feedback!
Lauren Janik profile pictureLauren Janik
22:41 20 Aug 24
We were assigned Nilson for our military international move a few months ago. They moved our household goods and our unaccompanied baggage and did an amazing job. They were very friendly, packed everything with care, and were very thorough with their labeling of the boxes. Our whole house was packed and ready to go within two days! I want to call out Ty specifically, he made the process so much easier than it could have been and was great about answering all of my questions!
Response from the owner 20:05 21 Aug 24
We appreciate you sharing your positive experience, Lauren. We value your opinion and we're thrilled to know your move went smoothly. A sincere thank you for your service, and wishing you all the best in your new surroundings!
Elizabeth Symmes profile pictureElizabeth Symmes
23:49 29 Dec 23
Half our experience was fine but when they packed our kitchen up we told them to not pack two cupboards and they did. One those cupboards had our dog's prescription food so we had to go through boxes to find.
Response from the owner 23:43 03 Jan 24
We value your insights and appreciate your feedback. We want every customer to have a positive moving experience and our team is reviewing your concerns to make moving better for every customer we serve.
Jared Wright profile pictureJared Wright
22:50 24 Aug 23
Wow! This was my Wife’s and I first big move using a moving company, and Angie, Ty, and Kayla exceeded every expectation we had. Ty talked me through every part of the move, showed me the truck, and told me exactly how the unpackers should handle our stuff. Kayla took me through all the paperwork and ensured every single item we had was accounted for and tagged with a corresponding number so we can track it all once we get to our unpacking portion. Angie worked incredibly fast and took extra care of every plate and cup in the kitchen to ensure every item was individually wrapped and secured before packing it. All three of these incredible movers never made assumptions about items and asked along the way if we wanted certain things packed… thanks again Ty, Angie, and Kayla- y’all were amazing!