Export Customs Clearance in Switzerland – Passar & Export Proof
Every shipment leaving Switzerland must be declared to customs – regardless of whether it is being exported to the EU or to international markets. Correct and timely export declarations are essential to ensure VAT exemption, comply with legal requirements, and avoid transport delays. Incomplete or incorrect information can lead to checks or waiting times at the border. As a non‑EU country, Switzerland requires precise Passar declarations as well as properly issued export proofs.
Gerlach Switzerland handles all steps of the export customs‑clearance process for you. This includes preparing and submitting the Passar export declaration, issuing origin and preference documents, and providing the export proof. Our presence at key Swiss border crossings such as Basel, Chiasso and Kreuzlingen ensures fast, clear and transparent operations.
How Gerlach Supports Export Customs Clearance
Digital submission of the export customs declaration to the BAZG, ensuring fast and accurate processing for smooth operations.
Official confirmation that the goods have left Switzerland, digitally archived to secure VAT exemption and meet audit requirements.
Issuance of EUR.1 certificates, preference documents and invoice declarations to ensure customs benefits under the applicable agreements.
Direct communication with customs offices and authorities to avoid delays and follow‑up questions.
Transparent access to all export documentation via the Gerlach system.
Our Export Clearance Process
Pre‑Export Consultation: Analysis of the goods, destination country and all required documents.
Document Preparation: Checking invoices, transport documents and origin certificates to avoid errors.
Submission of the Declaration: Digital transmission of the export declaration via Passar and receipt of the confirmation.
Customs Coordination: Handling potential inspections or additional checks by the FOCBS
Export Proof: Creation and documentation of the official confirmation that the goods have left Switzerland.
Completion and Archiving: Provision of all export documents and digital storage for internal and external audits.
Why Gerlach for Import Clearance in Switzerland?
Contact usOffices in Basel, Chiasso or Thayngen, and other key locations ensure coverage wherever your goods enter Switzerland
Our experts communicate fluently in German, French, Italian, and English and understand the specific requirements of every border region
Electronic submission and archiving of all exports via the Gerlach system
One dedicated contact manages your imports across all borders, ensuring consistent quality and communication
Complementary Services
Fiscal Representation
Acting as your importer of record and managing VAT for non-Swiss companies.
Transit Procedures
Coordination of T1/T2 documents for cross-border shipments.
AEO Application
Support for obtaining Authorised Economic Operator certification.
Control Tower Services
Central monitoring of all export, import, and transit activities for maximum transparency
Frequently Asked Questions on Export Clearance in Switerland
Which documents are required for export customs clearance?
For export, you need a commercial invoice, the relevant transport documents and—if you intend to use preferential tariff benefits—origin documents such as an EUR.1 or an invoice declaration. Gerlach carefully checks all documents to prevent delays.
How is VAT handled for exports?
Exports from Switzerland are generally exempt from VAT. However, a valid export proof is required. We ensure that this document is created and recorded correctly so that it is fully recognised for tax purposes.
How long does export customs clearance take?
The duration depends on the type of goods and the traffic volume. In many cases, the declaration can be completed within a few hours thanks to digital processes and our local presence.
Does Gerlach also support exports for international companies?
Yes. Gerlach assists both Swiss and foreign companies with all steps of export customs clearance, including document preparation and communication with authorities.
What are the advantages of a correct Passar export declaration?
A correct declaration ensures that the VAT exemption is accepted and that goods can cross the border without delays.
Does every shipment require an origin document such as an EUR.1?
Only if the destination country offers preferential tariff benefits. An EUR.1 can reduce or eliminate customs duties.
Why is the export proof so important?
Without an export proof, the VAT exemption may be denied, which can lead to significant additional costs.
How quickly is a Passar export declaration processed?
Normally within a few hours, especially at border crossings with a high volume of customs clearance.
Export from Switzerland – Fast, Compliant, and Transparent
With Gerlach Switzerland, your export are cleared efficiently and in full compliance with regulations. Our experts handle all customs formalities, tax processes, and electronic documentation – so your goods move freely across every Swiss border.
Contact our import specialists today to learn how we can optimise your customs processes.
