Updated: October 2026Editorial team: Umzugsexpress GmbHTeam: 17 years in moving and clearance
Germany is the most frequent destination for moves from Switzerland. The distance is short – but you should still tackle the formalities early.
In short
Deregister with your municipality before leaving, prepare an inventory list for customs and register with the residents’ registration office in Germany within two weeks. Used household effects can usually be imported duty-free as removal goods.
Before leaving Switzerland
- Deregister with your municipality
- Cancel or adjust health and other insurance
- Set up mail forwarding with Swiss Post
- Prepare an inventory list for customs
Customs: household goods
In the EU, household goods can usually be imported duty-free if you transfer your residence to Germany, have lived outside the EU for at least twelve months and have used the items for at least six months. Sort out the documents before moving day.
After arrival
In Germany you usually register with the residents’ registration office within two weeks. The registration certificate opens the door to a bank account, health insurance and further steps.
Direct trip or part load?
For southern Germany a direct trip usually makes sense. For more distant destinations such as Berlin or Hamburg, a part load can be cheaper.
The steps on both sides
| Switzerland (before the move) | Germany (after the move) |
|---|---|
| Deregister with the municipality | Register with the residents’ office within 2 weeks |
| Cancel Swiss health insurance | Take out health insurance |
| Swiss Post mail forwarding | Open a bank account |
| Prepare an inventory list | Re-register the vehicle, check your driving licence |
| Clarify pillar 3a and pension fund | Receive your tax identification number |
Timeline for the move
- 6–8 weeks before: quote and date, clarify customs documents
- 2 weeks before: finalise the inventory list and number the boxes
- Moving day: documents in your hand luggage
- After arrival: registration, then all further steps
Frequently asked questions
Is a customs declaration needed for a move to Germany?
Yes. As Switzerland is not in the EU, removal goods are declared at the border. With correct documents they usually remain duty-free.
Which is cheaper: direct trip or part load?
To southern Germany usually the direct trip, to more distant destinations often the part load: Transport & part loads.
Related services
- European removals – Moving abroad or to Switzerland, including customs papers for household goods.
- Van & part-load transport – Just a van and driver – or a part load on an existing route.
- Furniture storage – Collection, storage and redelivery from one team.