The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Your International Relocation Estimate

Moving to another country is a big life change. Knowing the financial details is important for a smooth transition.

One of the first steps is reviewing your relocation estimate, but what actually is a relocation estimate?

A relocation estimate is a detailed quote provided by your moving company outlining the expected overseas moving costs. It includes all services required for your relocation, such as packing, transportation, and customs clearance, depending on your destination. Understanding what this estimate includes is crucial to avoiding surprises later on.

Here’s a guide on what to check for international relocation costs. This is especially important if you are moving from Switzerland.

What services do providers typically include?

1. Packing and Unpacking Services:

   These services involve professional movers carefully packing your belongings at your current location and unpacking them at your new home. High-quality packing materials, like custom crates, and careful handling keep fragile items and valuables safe during transport.

2. Transportation (Air, Sea, or Land):

   This refers to the mode of transport your goods will take to reach your destination. Depending on the distance and urgency, your belongings may be shipped by air, sea, or land. Each mode comes with different costs and delivery times.

3. Customs Clearance Assistance:

   Navigating customs regulations can be challenging, especially when moving internationally. Your relocation provider will assist you with the paperwork. They will also help you with the steps needed for your goods to pass through customs. This will ensure that everything is done easily and legally.

4. Storage Solutions (If Needed):

   If your new home is not immediately ready or if you need extra time before moving in, storage solutions can be arranged. This service offers secure, short-term or long-term storage for your belongings until you’re ready to receive them.

Customs and VAT Considerations for Switzerland

Customs and VAT regulations vary depending on whether the relocation is within Switzerland, or involves moving from Switzerland to another location:

Moving within Switzerland:

There are no customs borders for a domestic move, so there are no declarations or VAT on your used household goods. If you are bringing in new items from abroad during the move, VAT and import rules apply to those items. Normal restrictions still apply (weapons, certain plants/animals, large alcohol/tobacco quantities, etc.). The “private individuals” pages from Swiss Customs provide your baseline for what’s restricted.

Moving From Switzerland to an EU Country:

Your household goods can leave Switzerland without paying Swiss VAT. However, check for any item-specific bans. Most EU countries grant customs duty relief for personal property when you transfer your normal residence to the EU. You’ll still need an inventory, proof of residence change, and to follow your destination country’s process.

Moving From Switzerland to a Non-EU Country:

This becomes a standard international relocation import, and each destination has its own rules. Most countries offer tax relief if you’re moving residence and meet ownership rules (e.g., 6–12 months).

Weather and Seasonality Costs

In Switzerland, weather and national holidays can significantly impact your move:

Weather:

For Alpine or high-altitude areas, many properties require winter tyre regulations and sometimes snow chains for moving trucks.

Holidays:

Understanding Temporary Housing and Storage Costs

When relocating from your home country, your new home may not always be ready for immediate move-in. In such cases, expect to pay for temporary housing or storage solutions.

Many people moving long distances from Switzerland need storage for their things or temporary places to stay. Both can increase your moving costs. Ensure these are clearly outlined in your estimate.

Summary

Relocating from Switzerland to a new country can be a seamless experience if you have a clear understanding of your international relocation estimate. Knowing what services are included – such as packing, transportation, customs assistance, and storage -helps avoid unexpected costs down the line.

Additionally, factoring in regional considerations like customs regulations, VAT charges, and weather conditions is essential for an accurate and complete estimate. Whether you’re moving in the peak summer season or braving the narrow Swiss mountain roads, proper planning and a detailed estimate ensure your international move goes smoothly and stays within budget.

At Crown Relocations, we’re committed to providing clear, comprehensive relocation estimates to make your move as stress-free as possible. Reach out to our team for personalized advice tailored to your specific journey.