Customs when moving to Switzerland Form 1844, documents, exceptions, deadlines
Cross the border safely. Stress-free – and BAZG-compliant, of course.
The most important information in 30 seconds
When moving to Switzerland, customs refers to the processing of customs formalities that are necessary when moving to Switzerland. Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, which is why certain customs regulations must be considered when moving goods from Germany to Switzerland. Customs duties are taxes levied when goods leave the country's economic cycle.
For you, this means that you need to complete the proper customs clearance procedures when importing goods. Why? To avoid unnecessary costs or delays and to ensure that your move goes smoothly.
When is it duty-free?
What documents do I need?
How does customs clearance work?
In general:
- Duty-free if the removal goods have been used for ≥6 months and will continue to be used.
- VAT is payable on new goods/high values.
- Form 1844 + inventory list + original ID documents must be carried.
- Special cases: cars, medication, alcohol/tobacco must be checked separately.
Related topics
- Moving to Switzerland → Get a quote now!
- Entry requirements for Switzerland → Find out more now
- Emigrating to Switzerland? → All the important information
- Bringing your pet with you? → Import rules
Advantages of early customs clearance and information
Avoiding delays:
By preparing thoroughly and in good time, you can ensure that your belongings pass through customs without any problems and that there are no unnecessary delays.
Controlling costs:
By finding out about customs duties and other costs in advance, you can avoid unexpected expenses and plan better.
Smooth operation:
Early registration and customs clearance help speed up the entire moving process, so you don't have to deal with last-minute problems.
Avoiding stress:
Getting everything done early on minimizes stress during the move. You'll have enough time to prepare all your documents correctly and focus on the move.
Better logistics planning:
Early customs clearance allows for better coordination of relocation logistics, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and according to schedule, with no surprises.
Checklist: Required customs documents for moving to Switzerland
To ensure that customs clearance runs smoothly, we require the following documents from you:
✓ “Tax assessment application for relocation goods” (1844) – 3 original copies, signed on the day of the move
✓ Certificate of deregistration from Germany
✓ Certificate of registration in Switzerland
✓ Proof of employment contract
✓ Proof of residence in Switzerland, e.g., rental or purchase agreement
✓ ID cards/passports of all persons involved
✓ Power of attorney for customs clearance with DACHSER & KOLB
✓ If a motor vehicle is being taken along: “Certificate of compliance for motor vehicles” (0060) + vehicle registration document and proof of insurance
✓ Inventory list of the removal goods
People moving from the EU/EFTA do not necessarily have to present their residence permit; proof of employment/rent/registration is sufficient.
Duty-free? Check here in 30 seconds
✓ Can you prove that you have changed your place of residence?
✓ Have the items been in use for ≥ 6 months?
✓ Import no later than 2 years after relocation or as a subsequent delivery?*
✓ All 4 requirements met?
→ Duty-free
* (Subsequent deliveries are possible within two years of changing residence; obstacles do not result in the loss of customs exemption.)
You should definitely avoid these mistakes at Swiss customs
Common mistakes that cost time and money
- Incomplete inventory list
- Incorrect customs office/opening hours
- New goods declared as removal goods
- Vehicle without documentation
- Medications without receipts
Import bans & permits
Alcohol & tobacco
Household supplies and tobacco products in the usual type and quantity, as well as alcoholic beverages
- up to 25% alcohol content: max. 200 liters
- from 25% alcohol content: max. 12 liters
Weapons and ammunition
For some firearms, an import permit from the federal authority in Bern is required, depending on the type of weapon.
Plants
Depending on the origin of the plant (non-EU country), a plant certificate/CITES may be required.
Works of art
Ivory (e.g., ivory piano keys) requires a CITES certificate and is subject to taxation. Stuffed animals that fall under the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species also require a CITES certificate.
Medicines & medical devices
For personal use only. Have your prescription/proof ready.
New and high-priced goods
VAT possible. Customs exemption if relocation goods are used for ≥ 6 months. Keep purchase receipts ready or prove value/useful life with photos/serial numbers.
CHF 0 for eligible relocation goods
Car
Proof of ownership >6 months, separate registration, subsequent Swiss registration.
Procedure at the border: step by step
Select customs office → Check appointment/opening hours → Bring original documents with you
Arrival at customs office:
during regular opening hours.
Registration:
Declare “relocation goods,” submit Form 1844 + inventory list + identification documents.
Inspection:
Visual inspection, queries, partial opening if necessary.
Assessment:
Stamp/disposal. For new goods: VAT assessment.
Continuation of journey:
Carry documents with you and present them upon entry.
Your advantages when moving to Switzerland with DACHSER & KOLB
Competent customs clearance
We take care of the entire organization and all formalities with the Swiss customs authorities.
Individual advice
We take the time to listen to your wishes and requirements and draw up a detailed removal plan.
Transparent planning
Our free inspection and online price calculator give you a clear overview of the costs.
Experienced specialists
From planning to implementation, we rely on qualified employees who will ensure you have a stress-free move
How DACHSER & KOLB supports you with your Swiss customs relocation
DACHSER & KOLB is your reliable partner for a stress-free move to Switzerland. We take care of all customs clearance for you and ensure that all formalities are handled correctly. Our services include:
Provision of forms:
We provide you with all relevant customs forms, such as the “Application for Assessment of Removal Goods” (Form 1844) and other documents required for the customs process.
Advice on the documents:
We offer detailed advice and help you compile all the documents required for customs clearance, such as deregistration certificates, registrations, and inventory lists.
Granting of power of attorney
If you would like us to handle customs clearance on your behalf, we will provide you with a power of attorney that allows us to act on your behalf.
Downloads for customs when moving to Switzerland
- Form 1844
- Inventory list
- Customs clearance checklist
- Power of attorney for customs clearance
- Moving checklist
FAQ - What should you bear in mind when it comes to customs clearance for moving to Switzerland?
When are my belongings exempt from customs duties?
If it has been used for at least 6 months, continues to be used privately, and is imported no later than 2 years after changing residence. Household supplies, including tobacco and alcohol, are permitted in normal quantities; guidelines: up to 200 L ≤ 25% vol. and 12 L > 25% vol.
What documents do I need at the border?
Form 1844 in duplicate, detailed inventory list (subsequent deliveries on a separate list), proof of change of residence. Residence permit only if you are not moving from the EU. In this case, prove the change of residence with, for example, a rental or employment contract. For vehicles: foreign registration certificate.
Can I make multiple trips or send goods later?
Yes. Register subsequent deliveries with the first import and import them within two years at the latest. If there is an obstacle, the exemption can also be granted retrospectively (deadline: three months after the obstacle has been removed).
What if I am not present myself?
DACHSER & KOLB can register you. Please submit the signed form 1844 and all original documents.
Where and when do I need to register the items being moved?
Only at customs offices and only during assessment times on working days. Check the opening hours of the relevant office in advance.
What happens to new goods or items that have been used for < 6 months?
These are not duty-free. List them at the end of the inventory list as “goods subject to duty”; they will be cleared through customs and taxed as normal.
Can I pick up my car later?
Yes, as part of your household goods, if it has been used in Germany for ≥ 6 months and you continue to use it privately. Latest import date: 2 years after relocation. If you do not meet the conditions, the regular import rules apply, including VAT (currently 8.1%).
Do import bans or licensing requirements still apply despite the move?
Yes. Prohibitions/permits, e.g., for protected animals/plants (CITES), certain plant species, weapons, medications/doping. Check in advance; violations can also be prosecuted retrospectively.
Contact us for a free consultation!
With customs clearance for moves to and from Switzerland, DACHSER & KOLB ensures that your move is efficient, secure, and stress-free. Contact us for a free consultation!
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