First question: where's your car coming from?
The process is different depending on whether you're importing from inside or outside Europe.
Importing from Europe
Good news: this is the easier path. You can drive your car right across the border. But making it official? That still takes work.
Here's what Autociel does for you:
📋 Upfront cost breakdown
No surprises. Before you commit to anything, you'll know the full price—customs, inspections, modifications, registration. Everything.
💰 Tax-free eligibility check
Owned your car for more than 6 months? It might count as a "moving good" and come in tax-free. Autociel figures out if you qualify and handles the paperwork.
🔧 Swiss compliance sorted
Switzerland has specific technical requirements. Autociel arranges the mandatory testing and any modifications your car needs.
📄 All paperwork handled
Customs forms. Cantonal registration. All of it. You just sign on the dotted line.
🚗 Ready-to-drive delivery
Swiss plates on. Testing done. Insurance sorted. Keys in your hand.
Importing from outside Europe
Let's be honest: this is trickier. And more expensive. Your car might not even work properly in Switzerland.
Here's what you need to know:
⚠️ Your tech might not work here
Your GPS? Probably won't work right. Fixing it is complicated and costly. Your radio? Only about half the stations will come through.
🔧 Finding service will be harder
American cars - even European brands built for the US market - use different parts. Swiss mechanics may struggle. Repairs cost more.
💸 Reselling will be tough
When it's time to leave, expect to price your car about 20% below similar Swiss vehicles. The market for imported non-European cars is small.
📝 Insurance is a problem
Almost no American insurance companies cover cars in Switzerland. You'll need Swiss insurance immediately, which means registering right away.
Still want to do it?
Autociel will help. But they'll be straight with you about the costs and challenges first. No sugar-coating.
Get your import quoteWhy we work with Autociel
At Packimpex, we've been sending people to Autociel since 2002. Why? Because they make this easy.
They know Swiss import rules inside out. They speak English. They understand expat situations. And they don't mess around with hidden costs or surprise fees.
When you're moving to a new country, the last thing you need is car import stress. Autociel takes care of it.
How importing your car with Autociel works
Step 1: Needs assessment
Autociel gives you a complete quote—everything included, nothing hidden.
Step 2: Tax situation assessment
Can you bring it in tax-free? Autociel finds out and handles the paperwork if you qualify.
Step 3: Document prep
All the forms your car needs, ordered and prepared.
Step 4: CO2 fee reduction
If your car is less than 6 months old, Autociel gets you a discount on emissions taxes.
Step 5: Customs management
Autociel handles this part. You don't have to deal with customs officials.
Step 6: Insurance arrangement
If needed.
Step 7: Delivery
Government testing done. Swiss plates on. Paperwork complete. Ready to drive.
Ready to bring your car?
Stop worrying about Swiss import regulations. Let Autociel handle it.
No obligation. Honest pricing. Expert help.
Get your import quoteChanged your mind about importing?
Autociel can help with other options:
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Can I wait until I've owned the car 6 months, then import it tax-free?
No. The 6 months have to be before you move to Switzerland, not before you start the import.
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Will my car be ready to drive when it arrives?
Yes. Swiss plates, testing done, insurance arranged. You get the keys and go.
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How long does it take?
Depends on where you're importing from and whether your car needs modifications. Autociel will give you a timeline for your specific situation.
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What makes my car qualify for tax-free import?
You need to have owned it for at least 6 months before moving to Switzerland. It counts as a "moving good." Autociel checks if you qualify.
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What if my car doesn't meet Swiss standards?
Autociel arranges whatever modifications are needed. They'll tell you upfront what's required and what it costs.
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Should I import my right-hand drive car from the UK?
Probably not. Right-hand drive is awkward in Switzerland. And when you try to sell it? Almost no market. You'd likely have to ship it back to the UK to find a buyer. But ask Autociel—they'll give you honest advice.