Customs Clearance Services in Switzerland
As a non-EU country with high trade volumes and numerous border crossings, Switzerland has one of the most complex customs environments in Europe. Every import, export, or transit movement requires precise documentation, correct tax handling, and close coordination with customs authorities. Small mistakes can lead to costly delays – especially at busy borders like Basel, Chiasso, or Kreuzlingen.
With decades of experience and offices at all major entry and exit points, Gerlach Switzerland ensures that your customs procedures run smoothly and transparently. Our multilingual teams guide you through every requirement of Swiss customs law, helping your goods move safely and efficiently across borders.
How Gerlach Helps with Customs Services
Import Customs Clearance
- Electronic import declarations (E-dec)
- Correct HS classification and duty calculation
- Swiss VAT (MWST) accounting and optional deferred VAT
- eVV creation and validation for audit-proof documentation
- Local support at all major Swiss border points
- Electronic import declarations (E-dec)
- Correct HS classification and duty calculation
- Swiss VAT (MWST) accounting and optional deferred VAT
- eVV creation and validation for audit-proof documentation
- Local support at all major Swiss border points
Export Customs Clearance
- Electronic passar Export submission
- Proof of export for VAT exemption
- EUR.1 and preferential origin documentation
- Coordination of customs controls and inspections
- Digital archiving and transparent reporting
- Electronic passar Export submission
- Proof of export for VAT exemption
- EUR.1 and preferential origin documentation
- Coordination of customs controls and inspections
- Digital archiving and transparent reporting
Transit Customs Clearance
- Preparation of T1/T2 transit documents
- Guarantee management for secure goods movement
- Monitoring and closure via NCTS
- Coordination with customs offices and carriers
- On-site support at key transit borders
- Preparation of T1/T2 transit documents
- Guarantee management for secure goods movement
- Monitoring and closure via NCTS
- Coordination with customs offices and carriers
- On-site support at key transit borders
Fiscal representation for non‑resident companies
- Preparation of T1/T2 transit documents
- Guarantee management for secure goods movement
- Monitoring and closure via NCTS
- Coordination with customs offices and carriers
- On-site support at key transit borders
- Preparation of T1/T2 transit documents
- Guarantee management for secure goods movement
- Monitoring and closure via NCTS
- Coordination with customs offices and carriers
- On-site support at key transit borders
How Our Customs Services Process Works
Initial assessment: Understanding your goods, trade routes, and customs needs.
Document preparation: Checking invoices, origin proofs, and transport documents for compliance.
Electronic submission: Filing declarations via Swiss systems (E-dec, NCTS) for fast processing.
Authority coordination: Managing communication with customs offices and inspection authorities.
Clearance and verification: Ensuring proper release and providing validated documents (eVV, proof of export).
Reporting and archiving: Secure digital storage and full transparency for audits and internal reviews.
Why Gerlach for Customs Services in Switzerland?
Contact UsOffices at all major Swiss entry and exit points ensure fast, coordinated processing where it matters most.
Teams fluent in German, French, Italian, and English manage communication seamlessly across regions and authorities.
Electronic declarations, eVV processing, and secure document archiving provide clarity and real-time visibility.
AEO, UMS, and ISO certifications reflect our commitment to security, accuracy, and compliance.
With 170 offices in 27 countries, Gerlach links your Swiss operations with a Europe-wide customs network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need customs clearance when importing from the EU into Switzerland?
Yes. Switzerland is not part of the EU customs union, so all goods entering Switzerland – even from neighbouring EU countries – require a full customs declaration, including VAT and duty assessment.
Which customs documents are needed for import or export?
Typically, a commercial invoice, transport documents, and proof of origin (if preferential tariffs apply). Gerlach checks all documents beforehand to avoid delays at the border.
Can Gerlach act as fiscal representative for foreign companies?
Yes. Non-resident companies trading in Switzerland must appoint a fiscal representative, and Gerlach manages VAT registration, declarations, and tax communication on your behalf.
How long does customs clearance take in Switzerland?
Most declarations are processed within hours. Our digital systems and local border presence help minimise waiting times, even at peak periods.
Can Gerlach support transit procedures through Switzerland?
Absolutely. We prepare and manage T1/T2 declarations, provide guarantee coverage, and monitor closure through NCTS to ensure uninterrupted movement across Swiss territory.
Why is customs clearance required even for EU shipments entering Switzerland?
Because Switzerland is not in the EU customs union, all goods require a customs declaration, duty evaluation and VAT processing.
Which companies benefit from a full service customs provider?
Businesses that trade regularly across borders, handle multiple transport modes or require consistent documentation across sites gain efficiency and compliance.
Does Switzerland use the same customs tariff as the EU?
No. Switzerland applies its own tariff system, which can differ from EU duty rules. Correct classification is essential for avoiding incorrect duty charges.
Simplify Your Customs Procedures with Gerlach Switzerland
From import and export to transit and fiscal representation – Gerlach Switzerland provides reliable, compliant, and efficient customs support across all major borders.
Contact our customs specialists today to streamline your cross-border operations.
