DE / EN

BUSINESS NEWS

JENS BERGERMANN

If you're planning to offer your products on Swiss marketplaces, organizing the import process correctly plays a key role. Without expert support, however, this process can seem very complex.

What are the biggest challenges when importing into Switzerland? The biggest challenges when importing into Switzerland are the strict customs regulations, high import duties, and complex customs clearance. Additionally, there are requirements such as the correct declaration of products, the calculation of import tax, and compliance with country-specific regulations.

In this article, we'll show you which steps are essential for a smooth export to Switzerland and how you can save time and stress with professional support from SURS.

The Challenges of Exporting from the EU to Switzerland

Exporting to Switzerland involves not only transportation but also timely and correct customs clearance. Especially for first-time exports, the question often arises as to how the process can be designed efficiently and with the least possible organizational effort. Careful preparation is crucial here to ensure a smooth and speedy process.

The three most common challenges when exporting from the EU to Switzerland are:

1. Finding the right freight forwarder 

   A reliable, international freight forwarder like DSV will support you in the smooth transport of your goods.

2. Customs clearance
   Ideally, the freight forwarder handles the customs declaration. This way, formalities are handled efficiently and cost-effectively, while ensuring that all required documents are provided correctly.

3. Costs and fees
   In addition to transport costs, customs duties (depending on the customs tariff number) and a flat customs processing fee apply.

With the support of SURS, these challenges can be effectively managed. Our team ensures that the export process is as straightforward as possible for you. We not only offer expert advice but also provide practical tools like checklists and personally guide you through the entire process. This saves you time, avoids mistakes, and allows you to focus on successfully establishing your business in Switzerland.

Process of Importing Goods into Switzerland

The journey from the EU to Switzerland can present numerous hurdles when importing goods. Below, you'll get an overview of how to ensure a structured and successful import process step by step.

1. Choosing a freight forwarder
   For a smooth import, an experienced, international freight forwarder is advantageous. Large freight forwarders like DSV, with whom SURS cooperates, offer not only transport services but also customs specialists who will guide you through the entire customs clearance process.
    

2. Commissioning customs declaration
   The customs declaration should ideally be handled by the freight forwarder. They are familiar with the process and can carry it out efficiently and cost-effectively. Make sure that the necessary documents are provided correctly:

   • Invoice in triplicate

   • Incoterms visible on the invoice

   • Net and gross weight for each item

   • Customs tariff number for each product (you can find this in the customs tariff directory)
      

3. Compiling documents
   In addition to the documents mentioned, you often need further information about the goods, such as the correct customs tariff number. This ensures that the customs process runs smoothly and unexpected costs are avoided.
    

4. Understanding costs
   When importing, in addition to transport costs, customs duties are incurred, the amount of which depends on the respective customs tariff number. Different tariffs and import regulations apply depending on the product category. In addition, there is usually a flat customs processing fee levied by Swiss customs.
    

5. Special regulations for shipments under €1,000
   For shipments valued under €1,000, customs declaration is often simpler, and in some cases, it is waived entirely. However, exceptions exist; for certain groups of goods, a customs declaration may still be required. It is advisable to check the current regulations or consult with a freight forwarder or customs consultant.
   
   If the shipment value exceeds €1,000, care must be taken to ensure that the goods are declared in accordance with regulations. In addition, they must be available for a possible customs inspection for at least 24 hours before shipment.
    

6. Duration of the process
   If all preparations are complete, customs declaration usually takes one to two working days, plus transport time.
    

7. Alternative shipping options
   For smaller shipments, it is not absolutely necessary to commission a large freight forwarder. Courier services such as DHL, UPS, or FedEx offer cost-effective alternatives where the export declaration can be made yourself using online tools.

SURS Supports You in the Import Process

Professional guidance significantly speeds up and simplifies importing into Switzerland. SURS has many years of experience and comprehensive expertise in international trade. As an established sales partner, we support you in importing various groups of goods from the EU, the USA, China, Cambodia, and many other countries. We accompany you on all transport routes – whether by truck, plane, ship, courier, or post – and ensure that all requirements of Swiss customs are correctly met.

To organize your imports in the best possible way, we work in a structured process consisting of three central steps:

1. Checking product groups and determining the best carrier 
2. Compiling relevant product data
3. Ensuring successful importation

These three steps form the basis for the entire import process and can be excellently combined with our S.A.U.C.E. strategy. This approach serves to place your products efficiently and sustainably on Swiss marketplaces and can be seamlessly applied in the three central steps of the import process.

Below, we explain how we link the three import steps with the S.A.U.C.E. strategy from SURS:

Checking Product Groups and Determining the Best Carrier 

In the first process step, the appropriate product range is selected. We use the Select component of the S.A.U.C.E. strategy: We analyze which of your products are particularly in demand in Switzerland and determine all relevant requirements for import – from customs tariff numbers to the required documents. Once the product range is defined, we recommend the optimal mode of transport, whether by truck, ship, plane, or courier.

We also check from what value of goods shipping is worthwhile and which transport time best fits into your supply chain. Through this detailed preparation, we ensure that your products reach Switzerland quickly and without delays.

Example of a successful collaboration:

A fitting example of a successful market launch is our collaboration with Boxrope – a fitness and boxing brand that has already achieved great success in the USA through its own webshop and Amazon. Thanks to a strong social media presence, Boxrope has established itself as a brand for online-savvy sports enthusiasts.

The challenge:

In Switzerland, there were hardly any fitness items specifically tailored to boxing and this target group – an unoccupied niche with great potential.

Our solution:

We successfully established Boxrope on Swiss online marketplaces:

• Optimized import strategy: Initially, we imported three-digit quantities directly from the USA.

• Enabled scaling: Within a year, demand grew so much that we switched the supply chain and imported four-digit quantities directly from the production site in the Far East to Switzerland.

• Marketplace integration implemented: The products are now listed on leading platforms like Galaxus and reach a broad customer base.

Compiling Relevant Product Data 

In the next step, the product data is prepared for import and for marketplace integration. Together, we define which data is required for the Swiss market, such as detailed product descriptions, technical specifications, or price information.

This step corresponds to the Assemble component of the S.A.U.C.E. strategy: Here, logistics and data are brought together to create a solid foundation for a successful market entry.

Example of a successful collaboration

The optimal coordination of logistics and data is essential for successful expansion, which is reflected in the Assemble process:

The challenge:

Many brands have great products but lack a standardized and efficient structure for import and marketplace integration. Product data, logistics information (size, weight, Incoterms, warehouse locations), and transport solutions must be optimally coordinated.

Our solution:

• Data preparation made easy: We provide standardized templates to capture all relevant product and logistics data in a structured manner.

• Efficient further processing: The data is formatted by us and optimized for SURS and our partners.

• Optimized transport strategy: Based on the data, we select the most sensible transport route for the respective products (truck, ship, plane, or courier) to enable a quick and cost-effective market entry.

Ensuring Successful Importation

Once the products are prepared for the marketplaces, the final step follows: implementation. We ensure that all data is correct and meets the requirements of the respective platforms. This includes the Upgrade, Coordinate, and Execute phases of the S.A.U.C.E. strategy.

After successful marketplace integration, we take care of processing the first orders and ensuring the visibility of your products. We monitor the entire import process and ensure compliance with delivery deadlines. If adjustments are necessary for follow-up orders, we react quickly to further optimize your supply chain. We also handle inventory planning so that your product range is always available and initial orders can be processed smoothly.

Example of a successful collaboration:

For a successful market entry, in addition to the pure import, correct data preparation is also crucial so that your products are optimally found on Swiss marketplaces.

The challenge:

Each platform has its own requirements for product data. Without a uniform, optimized structure, visibility often falls short of expectations.

Our solution:

• Perfect data for every platform: We expand and format product data exactly according to the specifications of Swiss marketplaces and online shops.

• Multilingualism: Product information is provided in German, English, French, and Italian to achieve maximum reach.

• SEO optimization: From precise product names and detailed specifications to brand attributes – we ensure the best possible findability.

• Structured categorization: Products are placed exactly in the right categories and subcategories so that customers quickly find what they are looking for.

• Professional product presentation: High-quality images, infographics, and HTML-formatted texts ensure an appealing presentation.

What Sets SURS Apart from Other Import Service Providers in Switzerland?

SURS is much more than a classic import service provider. We see ourselves as a sales partner offering a holistic service. While numerous providers focus on individual aspects such as freight forwarding, customs clearance, or courier services, we pursue an approach that centers on long-term collaboration and genuine partnership.

A key difference: SURS makes no profit from the actual service. Our goal is not to sell transport or additional services. Instead, we want to make importing and exporting to Switzerland as easy as possible for you.

Therefore, we not only handle the preparation of your product data but also the technical connection to marketplace and retail partners. Your data is fed into the respective systems via product data feeds and API interfaces. We make manual adjustments if necessary to ensure optimal listing and a smooth product launch.

Our focus is on facilitating your market entry in Switzerland and growing successfully together. We see ourselves as a reliable sales partner for Swiss marketplaces and are happy to accompany you in the continuous expansion of your business. We consider every successful collaboration the beginning of a long-term partnership.

Conclusion – With an Experienced Partner, Exporting to Switzerland is Quick and Smooth

Importing into Switzerland often seems complex, but with careful planning and a competent partner, it can be significantly simplified. Whether it's customs clearance, selecting the right transport, or integrating onto Swiss marketplaces – sound advice and practical support ensure that your products are present on the Swiss market quickly and safely.

FAQs

How long does the import process into Switzerland take?

The import usually takes 1–2 working days, plus transport time – provided all documents are prepared correctly.

What should be considered when importing goods over €1000 into Switzerland?

For shipments over €1,000, a customs declaration is mandatory. The goods must be made available for customs inspection at least 24 hours before shipment.

How high are the costs for exporting to Switzerland?

In addition to transport costs, customs fees and a processing fee from the freight forwarder apply – depending on the customs tariff number. Service providers might charge additional fees for these services. However, SURS does not charge its partners any of its own fees.

Surs AG - Warehouse
Alte Buchserstrasse 10
8108 Dällikon
Switzerland

Surs AG - Billing
Alte Buchserstrasse 8
8108 Dällikon
Switzerland

©Surs AG 2025, Design by Surs

AT WORK