Moving to Switzerland – Your International Move with KOCH

Whether you are moving to Zurich, Basel, Bern, Geneva or another Swiss region, we tailor the process to your household, the distance and the conditions at your destination.

An international move involves a number of organisational considerations. How will your belongings be transported? Which items require special protection? What documents are needed for import? And when can your furniture and boxes arrive at your new home?

KOCH Umzugslogistik supports you in planning and carrying out your move from Germany to Switzerland. The scope of services is tailored to your needs – from transport only to comprehensive moving assistance.

We will discuss your requirements with you in advance to determine which services are appropriate for your move.

Moving across the German border requires reliable coordination of transport, schedules and formalities. KOCH Umzugslogistik combines extensive experience in the moving industry with individually tailored planning for private relocations.

Switzerland is not part of the EU customs union. Household goods must therefore be properly declared when entering the country. Customs clearance may require information about your move, your previous and new residence, and the household goods being transported.

When preparing for your move, you should consider the following:

Used household goods may be imported duty-free under certain conditions when relocating. The applicable import regulations and supporting documents are decisive. Make sure to clarify the requirements well before your move.

KOCH can help you plan the organisational steps involved in transport and customs formalities. The specific documents and requirements should be checked in advance based on your individual circumstances.

To help ensure that transport, customs clearance and delivery run as smoothly as possible, your move is planned well in advance. The exact process depends on the size of your household, your destination and the additional services you require.

The cost of moving to Switzerland cannot be determined at a flat rate. The main factors are the distance between your current and new home, the volume of your belongings and the scope of services required.

The most important cost factors include:

Depending on your move, additional services such as Packing, Furniture assembly or Temporary storage  may also be included.

A move from Germany to Zurich may therefore be priced differently from a move to Geneva, Ticino or a remote Alpine region. The cost of moving a small household will also differ from that of relocating an entire house.

KOCH prepares an individual quote based on your requirements. For more information, visit our Moving Costs and Prices page.

Switzerland is a relatively small country, but transport planning depends greatly on your destination. In addition to the distance, local access routes and the conditions at the property also play an important role.

When moving to Switzerland’s largest city, it is important to plan the route, parking arrangements and access to your apartment or house in advance.

Located at the meeting point of Switzerland, Germany and France, Basel is a common destination for moves from Germany. Careful planning of the transport route and delivery remains essential.

For a move to the Swiss capital, we take the transport volume, schedule and access to your new home into account.

For longer transport routes, careful coordination of the moving date and delivery is particularly important.

Depending on the location, access roads and local conditions may require additional planning.

KOCH organises your move whether you are relocating to a major city, a lakeside town or a rural area. The specific arrangements depend on your address and the volume of your belongings.

Moving to Switzerland often coincides with starting a new job, beginning a course of study or a change in family circumstances. In addition to transporting your belongings, you should also consider the practical arrangements involved in starting a new life.

Our guides provide an overview of important topics to consider when moving to Switzerland.

Daily life

Living and working in Switzerland combines a high standard of living with impressive natural landscapes and cultural diversity. Switzerland is one of the world's most innovative economies and offers career opportunities in industries such as finance, pharmaceuticals, mechanical engineering, IT and tourism.

Residence regulations

Entry and residence requirements are facilitated by the EU–Switzerland Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons. German citizens can enter without a visa and stay for up to three months without a residence permit.

Property market

The Swiss property market offers a wide range of housing options, from city apartments in Zurich, Geneva and Basel to detached houses in rural cantons. KOCH Umzugslogistik can help you find suitable accommodation and provide guidance as you navigate the Swiss rental market.

Job opportunities for Germans

German professionals are in demand in many industries, including engineering, healthcare, financial services, research and development. KOCH Umzugslogistik can help you explore Job opportunities for expats, freelancers and entrepreneurs as you prepare for your professional transition.

Schools for expats

In Switzerland, expats have access to an excellent education system, including public schools, international schools and private educational institutions. The Swiss school system is organised at cantonal level and offers high educational standards.

Healthcare system 

The Swiss healthcare system is considered one of the best in the world. Basic health insurance under the Health Insurance Act (KVG) is compulsory for all residents. Foreign nationals must register with a health insurer within three months of arrival. KOCH Umzugslogistik can help you find your way around the Swiss healthcare system.

Tax system in Switzerland

The Swiss tax system is considered moderate and attractive by international standards. It includes direct federal taxes as well as cantonal and municipal taxes. KOCH Umzugslogistik provides useful guidance for planning your finances.

Cultural characteristics

Switzerland is known for its fascinating cultural diversity, shaped by its four national languages – German, French, Italian and Romansh – as well as regional traditions. KOCH Umzugslogistik can help you discover these differences and settle into Swiss society.

Leisure and recreation

Switzerland is a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking and water sports are readily accessible thanks to the Alps, lakes and well-developed infrastructure. The country also has plenty to offer culturally, with museums, theatres, music festivals and a vibrant dining scene.

Multilingual Switzerland

Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. The language spoken in everyday life depends on the region. In German-speaking Switzerland, you will often encounter Swiss German, a group of dialects that differ from Standard German. KOCH Umzugslogistik can help you find your way around Switzerland’s diverse linguistic landscape.