FAQ About Moving to Lausanne, Switzerland

How Long Will It Take to Move My Things?

Moving your belongings to Lausanne depends on how you send them. Here’s a quick rundown:

• By Road: This is the most popular option for moving within Europe. It usually takes 3–5 days for your things to arrive.
• By Air: If you need your stuff in a hurry, air freight is the fastest option, taking just 1–2 days. But be warned—it’s pricey!
• By Sea: If you’re moving lots of big items (like furniture), sea freight is an option, but it’s slower—around 10–14 days because of customs checks.

Pro tip: Always leave some extra time for customs clearance, just in case there are delays.

Switzerland has some strict rules about what you can bring into the country. Here’s what to avoid:

• Food: Fresh fruit, vegetables, and homemade meals are usually a no-go. Packaged food might be okay in small amounts, but check the rules first.
• Weapons: Guns, knives, and other weapons are not allowed unless you have special permission.
• Plants and Seeds: Some plants and seeds are banned to protect Switzerland’s environment.
• Medicines: Some medicines you can buy in the UK might not be allowed in Switzerland. Check with Swissmedic (the Swiss medicines agency) before packing them.

Always declare your items honestly on customs forms—it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Customs clearance is a big part of moving to Lausanne. Here’s what you need to know:

• Declare Everything: Be honest about what you’re bringing into Switzerland. If you’re not sure about an item, ask your moving company or check with Swiss customs.
• Documents: You’ll need your passport, residency permit, and a detailed inventory of your belongings.
• Duties and Taxes: If your items are for personal use and you’ve owned them for more than six months, you likely won’t pay import taxes. However, luxury items like cars or high-value electronics might still have duties.

Your moving company can often help with customs paperwork to make the process easier.

Yes, you can bring your furry friend with you! Here’s what you need to do:

1. Microchip: Your pet must have a microchip that meets Swiss standards (ISO 11784/11785).
2. Rabies Vaccine: Your pet needs a rabies shot at least 21 days before you travel.
3. Health Certificate: A vet must give your pet a health certificate within 10 days of travel.
4. Quarantine: Good news! Pets from the UK don’t need to go into quarantine if everything is in order.

If this sounds complicated, you can hire a pet relocation service to help.

Yes, moving insurance is a good idea! It protects your belongings in case something gets lost or damaged during the move. Here’s what to consider:

• Basic Coverage: This is usually included by most moving companies, but it might not cover everything.
• Full Coverage: For extra peace of mind, you can buy additional insurance to protect high-value items like electronics, jewellery, or antiques.

Ask your moving company about insurance options and choose what works best for you.

Hiring a professional moving service can make your life much easier. Here’s why:

• They Handle Everything: From packing to customs clearance, they take care of the details.
• They Know the Rules: Moving companies are familiar with Swiss customs and regulations, so they can help you avoid mistakes.
• They Save Time: You can focus on settling into your new home while they handle the logistics.

Look for a company with good reviews and experience in international moves.

Yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Registration: You’ll need to re-register your UK car in Switzerland within 12 months.
• Insurance: You must have at least third-party liability insurance.
• Emissions Rules: Switzerland has strict environmental rules, so older cars might need changes to meet the standards.

If you don’t want to drive your car all the way, you can ship it instead.

Delays can happen for all sorts of reasons—customs, bad weather, or just bad luck. Here’s what to do:

1. Stay Calm: Delays are common with international moves.
2. Track Your Shipment: Most moving companies let you track your items online.
3. Contact the Company: Ask for updates and a new delivery estimate.
4. Pack Essentials: Keep important things like clothes and documents with you, just in case.

Lausanne is a beautiful city, but it’s also one of the most expensive in Switzerland. Here’s a rough idea of what things cost:

• Rent: CHF 1,800–3,500 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Groceries: CHF 400–700 per month.
• Public Transport: CHF 70–90 for a monthly pass.
• Health Insurance: CHF 250–600 per month.

It’s a good idea to plan your budget carefully before you move.

Moving to Lausanne is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can be a wonderful experience. Make sure you understand the rules about shipping, customs, and bringing pets, and plan your budget to suit life in Switzerland. Hiring a moving service and getting insurance can save you a lot of stress, so consider these options if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Welcome to Lausanne—a city full of charm, stunning views, and a great quality of life! Whether you’re here for the lake, the mountains, or the chocolate, you’re going to love it.