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How to actually declare your goods at Swiss customs?
Whether you’re moving your residence or you’re just simply moving commercial goods, everyone needs to declare them to customs. Declaring your belongings upfront ensures a smoother customs process and avoids potential complications upon arrival. And there’s a few ways to bring your belongings, we’re going to explore a few ways to know what do you have to declare at Customs in Switzerland!
Moving your primary residence to Switzerland offers a fantastic advantage: exemption from import duties and the VAT (Value Added Tax) on your household belongings. This applies not only to brand new items, but also to personal effects and even second-hand goods you’ve owned for years. It’s a great way to save money on furniture, appliances, and other items you’ve accumulated over time.
However, it’s important to remember that even though you’re exempt from taxes, you still need to declare your belongings. This can be done easily online through the Swiss customs portal. The declaration process is simple and straightforward, but it’s a crucial step to ensure your exemption is applied correctly. By taking a few minutes to declare your items, you can save yourself a significant amount of money on import taxes.
To qualify for the residence transfer exemption and its tax benefits, be prepared to show proof of your move to Swiss authorities. Documents like employment contracts, new leases in Switzerland, and confirmation of deregistration from your previous residence will be helpful. Having this documentation readily available will expedite the customs process.
If you’re not relocating to Switzerland but simply importing goods, the customs rules change dramatically. In this case, you’ll be considered a commercial importer, meaning you’ll be subject to import duties and VAT. These can vary depending on the specific item and its country of origin, but they can add a significant cost to your shipment. For example, imagine you want to bring a valuable antique chair from your family home. As a resident transferring your belongings, it would come in duty-free. But as a commercial import, it could be subject to both import duties and VAT, potentially doubling the final price.
Understanding your situation and the residence transfer option can save you significant money. It can make a big difference in the final cost. Here are a few options to consider:
– Check the duty-free allowance: Switzerland offers a duty-free allowance for goods brought in by travelers. This amount is typically quite low (around 300 CHF), but it could be enough for smaller items.
– Research online retailers: Many online retailers with headquarters in the EU (including Switzerland) can ship directly to you and handle the duty and VAT paperwork for a fee. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than importing yourself, especially for smaller items.
– Investigate temporary imports: If you only need the item for a short period, you might be able to import it temporarily under a special customs procedure. This can be a good option for things like renting specialized equipment for a short-term project.
By understanding the different import options and planning accordingly, you can avoid unexpected customs fees and ensure a smooth import process for your goods.