Are you unsure about the rules and regulations when it comes to import from Switzerland? Take some time to read through this article, where we have summarized the most important pitfalls to be aware of which can prove valuable before you start importing goods from Switzerland.
The Swiss Market
Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world, and the trade exchange between the UK and Switzerland has positive prerequisites: the transportation between the two is neither long nor expensive, both have well-developed economies, and Switzerland and the UK are culturally very similar.
Although Switzerland is not a member of the EU, Switzerland has negotiated a number of bilateral agreements with the EU, which, among other things, concern the free movement of air and road transport. This was done in order to strengthen the country’s economic cooperation and integration with the EU. This is clearly seen as more than 70% of Swiss foreign trade takes place with EU countries. Therefore, you can safely start importing goods from Switzerland.
Importing from a Non-EU Country
As Switzerland is not a member of the EU, importing goods from Switzerland works a little differently than importing goods from other European countries, for example: Italy and Germany. As a rule of thumb import from Switzerland works the same way as trading with any other third countries (countries outside the EU).
This means that import from Switzerland requires customs clearance, which is a noticeable difference from importing from any other EU-country, as these are relieved from customs duties, and other restrictions.
EORI Registration
All companies that wish to trade goods with Switzerland, or other non-EU countries, must register for an EORI number. This can be done here, and it usually takes around three working days.
Customs Regulations
As mentioned above, because Switzerland is not an active member of the EU, all imported goods have to be customs-cleared.
In most cases this mean that you are subject to paying duty on your import from Switzerland, and the amount will vary depending on the specific type of goods you are importing. Therefore, you will need to know the commodity code (or HS code) in order to calculate the duty rates. To check duty tariffs, please visit www.gov.uk/trade-tariff.
When your goods have to be cleared through customs, you must complete a customs declaration. To do so, one option is to apply for a classification ruling, which can help you in advance and give you legal certainty in regards to the correct classification of your goods. Check out the eBTI online service or contact [email protected] for further assistance.
Click here for more relevant information on BTI.
However, most small and medium-sized importers prefer to have the forwarder handle the customs clearance, as it can be a bit of a jungle to figure out all the paperwork. When you book your transport via transporteca.co.uk, customs clearance is always included in the price.
When you or the freight forwarder has taken care of the customs clearance, HM Revenue & Customs will collect the duty fee. Read more about HMRC and payment options here.
Do Not Forget Documentation
In relation to the customs clearance, it is important that you make sure you get an invoice as well as a packing list to accompany the goods. These will often be a single document and is a necessity for the forwarder to clear your goods.
Modes of Transport
When importing from Switzerland, there are two possible modes of transport; regular road transport, and courier services. For smaller parcels it can be an advantage to use a courier service, however, we strongly advise against sending fragile items with a courier as goods of this shipment type are manhandled and subject to several transshipments along the way.
Regular road transport can handle most other shipments, whether we are talking standard pallet shipments or other irregular items. However, if possible, we recommend that you palletize your goods as this is the most secure packing method to avoid potential damage.
Price Examples
In order to give you an idea of the price level on import from Switzerland, we have listed a couple of price examples below, these examples represent small parcels and multiple pallets.
Zürich – London
1 pallet, 1.8m3, 690 kg
GBP 270
Bern – Manchester
2 pallets, 3.2m3, 1050 kg
GBP 410
Basel – Southampton
4 pallets, 6.8m3, 2400 kg
GBP 635
Lausanne – Cambridge (Courier)
1 parcel of 45x35x45 cm (0.06m3, 8 kg)
GBP 119
Montreux – Canterbury (Courier)
3 parcels of 35x77x56 cm (0.45m3, 65 kg)
GBP 230
Import from Switzerland with Transporteca
Transporteca is an online booking portal that allows transport buyers to find and book services online fast and easy. First, you select whether you are importing pallets or parcels, then you specify the type of pallet for pallet shipments and the measurements for parcel shipments. After completing your contact details in the form, you will get your quotes, directly on the screen, and of course quotes are completely non-binding.
Should you wish to go forward with one of the quotes, you can book the transport right away and the forwarder will get a notice once payment is completed. From here, the forwarder will handle the pick-up arrangements with your supplier and deliver your goods directly to your door.
When you book your transport via transporteca.co.uk there are no hidden fees or additional costs: the prices are all-in, including customs clearance.
Additional Questions?
If you did not find what you were looking for, please do not hesitate to get in touch – we are here to help..