Part of our Moving Abroad from U.S. Cities guide · Moving abroad from Los Angeles
Moving from Los Angeles to Zurich
Ports, customs and quote steps for an international move from Los Angeles to Zurich, Switzerland.
Short answer
A Los Angeles to Zurich move usually ships by sea container from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the busiest container complex in the U.S., on a West Coast sailing that usually goes through the Panama Canal or transships. Get survey-based quotes from FMC-licensed movers, apply for Switzerland duty relief before the goods arrive, and confirm which Zurich delivery charges are included.
Route at a glance
| Origin | Los Angeles: the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the busiest container complex in the U.S.; air via LAX |
|---|---|
| Destination | Zurich, Switzerland: Switzerland is landlocked; containers usually arrive via Rotterdam, Antwerp or Hamburg and finish by rail, Rhine barge or truck, often through Basel. |
| Customs | BAZG: moving (household effects) |
| Price data | No signed prices for this route yet. Estimate a range |
Steps for a Los Angeles to Zurich move
- Book a video or in-home survey in Los Angeles so every quote uses the same volume.
- Choose a full container, a shared container, or air for urgent boxes (compare methods).
- Prepare Switzerland customs paperwork early: start with the moving to Switzerland guide.
- Confirm which Zurich charges are included: terminal fees, customs clearance, delivery and unpacking.
- Keep passports, medicines and valuables with you, and check restricted items.
Frequently asked questions
How do I ship household goods from Los Angeles to Zurich?
Book a survey with FMC-licensed movers, choose a full or shared container (or air for urgent items), prepare Switzerland customs paperwork, and confirm delivery charges in Zurich.
How long does a move from Los Angeles to Zurich take?
Ask each mover for the port-to-port transit time and a door-to-door estimate. It depends on sailing schedules, transshipments, customs and whether a shared container must fill first.
Do I pay duty on household goods moving to Zurich?
Not if you qualify for Switzerland transfer-of-residence relief. See the official source: BAZG: moving (household effects).
How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles to Zurich?
We publish route prices only from signed agreements. Until we have them for this route, use the cost estimator for a rough range and compare written quotes.
Get free quotes from licensed movers
One short form for International Moving Company. Pick items from the inventory list or upload a quick video walkthrough. Your request is shared with Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations and My International Movers so you can compare their quotes. Free, no obligation.