Step-by-Step Guide for E-Commerce Companies
Expanding your online store into Switzerland means getting three things right at the same time: VAT registration, customs clearance, and a shipping solution that fits your volume. MS Direct is an experienced cross-border partner that supports online stores in entering the market, from the first shipment all the way through returns.
Switzerland is one of the markets with the highest purchasing power in Europe. Swiss customers spend more than average per order, which results in higher average order values.
Swiss consumers regularly place orders with online stores in the EU. There is demand for foreign product lines, so entering the market aligns with existing purchasing behavior.
Online retail is well established in Switzerland and continues to grow. Those who enter the market with a solid setup can reach a customer base that is accustomed to online shopping.
Swiss customers have clear expectations regarding delivery, price, and returns. Those who meet these expectations can compete with local providers.
A large portion of Swiss online retail takes place on online marketplaces. For many people, these are the first place they turn to when searching for products. Well-known major marketplaces in Switzerland include:
For the last mile, Swiss retailers rely on established local delivery partners. The right choice depends on coverage, costs, and sustainability goals. Well-known last-mile carriers in Switzerland include:
Swiss customers expect local payment options. However, the preferences of Swiss people differ from those of their immediate neighbors. Popular payment methods in Switzerland include:
We’ll support you every step of the way on your cross-border journey
Your advantages:
If your annual revenue exceeds CHF 100,000, you are subject to value-added tax in Switzerland. For Swiss companies, global revenue is taken into account; for foreign mail-order companies, it is the revenue from small shipments to Switzerland. You must register with the ESTV, after which you will receive a UID.
Foreign companies subject to value-added tax that do not have a registered office or permanent establishment in Switzerland must appoint a tax representative. MS Direct will act as your representative before the tax authorities upon request.
The standard rate is 8.1%. The reduced rate of 2.6% applies to food, pet food, fertilizer, medications, as well as books and newspapers.
Once you’re registered, you can invoice Swiss customers with Swiss VAT, just like a local store. This way, there are no unexpected costs at checkout, and your customers know the final price in advance.
Every import must be declared to the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG). Mail-order companies that fall under the mail-order regulations must also register with the FTA (UID) and Swiss Post. MS Direct handles the customs declaration via the Clear module.
For each shipment, you’ll need a commercial invoice that includes the value of the goods, the customs tariff number (HS code), the country of origin, the weight, and the correct sender and recipient information.
Depending on the value of the goods, the destination country, and the shipment structure, the appropriate procedure is used—such as individual or consolidated customs clearance, as well as high- and low-value procedures. Clear assigns the appropriate procedure to each shipment.
As of January 1, 2024, Switzerland no longer levies import duties on industrial products (Customs Tariff Chapters 25 through 97, with a few exceptions). Agricultural products and foodstuffs are still subject to an ad valorem duty. Import VAT is levied only on amounts of CHF 5 or more (small shipments). The requirement to file an import declaration remains in effect in all cases.
MS Direct handles your expansion into Switzerland throughout the entire cross-border process. Our solution has a modular structure and offers the following key features:
From individual cross-border services to a complete end-to-end solution: We combine the right services for your business model.
MS Direct automates key cross-border processes and provides real-time visibility into them through a central portal.
MS Direct operates its own facilities in Switzerland and delivers locally. This combines Swiss customs expertise with short delivery routes for your customers.
„Switzerland is a lucrative market for European online retailers. I'd be happy to advise you personally on how to successfully ship to Switzerland. “
Andy Mann
Senior Business Development Manager
Andy.Mann@ms-direct.com
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