Transit Customs Clearance in Switzerland
Switzerland’s central position in Europe makes it a vital transit country for goods moving between northern and southern markets. To ensure uninterrupted transport, all non-EU goods passing through Switzerland must move under customs supervision – typically within the common transit procedure (T1 or T2). Proper documentation, accurate data, and financial guarantees are essential for compliance and avoiding delays.
Gerlach Switzerland offers complete management of transit declarations, from document preparation to closure monitoring. Our teams at major Swiss border crossings ensure that goods move seamlessly across the country under customs control, with all procedures handled quickly and electronically through the NCTS system.
How Gerlach Supports Transit Customs Clearance
Fast and accurate digital processing via NCTS.
Provision and administration of customs guarantees for secure goods movement.
Continuous tracking of active transits and follow-up until final discharge.
Direct communication with drivers and customs authorities to prevent delays.
Personal assistance and on-site expertise in Basel, Chiasso, Kreuzlingen, and other major crossings.
Our Transit Process
Needs assessment – Determining the correct transit procedure (T1 or T2) and required guarantee.
Document verification – Reviewing invoices, transport documents, and supporting data for accuracy.
Declaration submission – Creating and transmitting the T1/T2 declaration electronically via NCTS.
Guarantee handling – Applying and managing Gerlach’s financial guarantees for the shipment
Monitoring and closure – Tracking the shipment’s progress and ensuring proper closure at the destination office.
Archiving and reporting – Storing all records digitally for full traceability and compliance.
Why Gerlach for Transit Clearance in Switzerland?
Contact usOffices at all major border crossings ensure support wherever your transport enters or exits Switzerland
High guarantee limits allow for uninterrupted and flexible goods movement
Local specialists manage hundreds of transit operations daily, ensuring speed and compliance
Real-time tracking through NCTS and the Gerlach Portal gives you full visibility of every shipment
Direct communication with carriers, brokers, and authorities prevents delays and administrative issues
Complementary Services
Export Customs Clearance
Management of exports that continue under transit to EU destinations.
Import Customs Clearance
Coordination of import and transit procedures for cross-border goods.
AEO Application
Assistance in achieving AEO certification to simplify future customs procedures.
Control Tower Services
Central monitoring of all transit and customs activities across Switzerland.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a transit procedure required in Switzerland?
Transit is required whenever non-EU goods pass through Switzerland without being imported. The procedure ensures that duties and VAT are suspended while goods move between EU or EFTA countries.
What is the difference between T1 and T2?
T1 is used for non-EU goods under customs control, while T2 applies to EU goods moving within the common transit area. Gerlach determines the correct procedure and manages the declaration accordingly.
Who is responsible for a transit declaration?
Usually, the consignor or the logistics provider initiates the declaration. Gerlach can act on your behalf to handle all formalities and ensure full compliance.
What happens if a transit is not properly closed?
If the procedure is not closed correctly, customs may initiate inquiries or charge duties. Gerlach monitors every open case and ensures timely discharge to avoid financial liabilities.
Can Gerlach provide customs guarantees?
Yes. Gerlach Switzerland maintains substantial guarantee coverage, allowing secure and uninterrupted transit operations for frequent and high-volume shipments.
Do T1 and T2 documents work the same way inside Switzerland?
Both are part of the NCTS system, but the type depends on the customs status of the goods. Using the wrong document can cause delays at Swiss borders.
When is a transit guarantee required for Switzerland?
A guarantee is needed whenever goods enter Swiss territory under transit. Gerlach provides and manages guarantees to prevent shipment holds.
Can transit shipments be stopped for inspection in Switzerland?
Yes. Swiss customs may inspect transit goods. Proper documentation, correct HS codes and accurate NCTS data reduce the likelihood of delays.
Move Goods Across Europe with Confidence
With Gerlach Switzerland, your transit procedures are handled efficiently, digitally, and securely. Our specialists manage all declarations, guarantees, and communication with customs authorities – so your goods move freely across borders without interruption.
Contact our transit experts today to simplify your customs operations across Switzerland and beyond.
