International removals: compare quotes and prices

What is actually moving?

A complete household, a few pieces of furniture and a business relocation need different assessments. Room count provides an initial indication for a home. Include the cellar, attic, large furniture and unusually full rooms in the inventory. For a part move, count only the belongings being shipped.

Before agreeing a binding quote, prepare an inventory by room or item group. Flag heavy, fragile and particularly valuable pieces. A visit or video survey can establish dismantling needs and whether the lift is large enough. Room count cannot replace that check.

Direct transport, groupage or overseas shipping?

Direct transport is arranged around your consignment. Groupage combines several consignments and may suit a smaller load, provided collection and delivery windows work for you. Ask whether goods will be transferred between vehicles and who manages each handover.

For an overseas move, distinguish collection, the main journey and final delivery. A price to the destination port does not automatically cover carrying furniture into your home. Compare the same endpoints, then clarify packing, storage and the contact at destination. Agree the transport method with the mover around your load and timing.

Check import and export separately

When transferring your residence to Switzerland, household goods personally used for at least six months and intended for continued personal use may qualify for duty-free import, subject to the conditions. Form 18.44 is used for this process. New goods and business stock need separate assessment.

For private household goods leaving Switzerland, prepare an inventory with the former and new addresses. Destination-country import rules apply separately. Agree who prepares the paperwork and remains available during clearance, and plan around the relevant customs office’s clearance hours.

Later consignments, vehicles and specially regulated items need further checks. A quote including customs handling does not necessarily include every tax and administrative charge.

How to compare international moving prices

A description such as ‘three rooms abroad’ is not enough for a reliable fixed price. Route, packing, access, transport method and delivery deadlines affect the calculation. Compare the final price for an equivalent scope instead of an isolated rate per kilometre or cubic metre.

For a fixed price, check the assumed load. Ask how additional volume, waiting time, an inaccessible delivery address or longer storage would be charged. A lower main transport charge can leave more services to pay for at destination.

Bridge the gap between moving out and moving in

Establish when the old address must be empty and when the new one becomes accessible. A fixed collection day does not guarantee same-day delivery. If there is a gap, ask for a suitable storage arrangement and clear charging terms.

Record the condition of delicate pieces before collection. Review the agreed insurance cover, excess and conditions for boxes you pack yourself. At delivery, note visible damage and missing items on the handover document and report them promptly under the agreed terms.

Residence permission, registration and finding a home are separate tasks. Check which assistance you have commissioned; furniture transport does not automatically include those services.