How much does a move cost in Switzerland? Prices and tips

In Switzerland the price of a move depends mainly on three things: the volume to transport, the distance and the number of people needed. Here are some benchmarks so you know what to expect and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Usual price ranges

With an independent provider who comes with their own van, expect roughly 60 to 90 francs per hour for one person with a vehicle, and 100 to 150 francs per hour for two people. A studio in town is often emptied and refilled in three to four hours; a three-room flat takes closer to half a day with two or three people.

Established moving companies charge more, between 150 and 250 francs per hour for a team of two to three movers with a truck, but they bring more complete transport insurance and packing material. For a family flat with boxes, furniture disassembly and a trip between two cantons, quotes often fall between 1,500 and 3,500 francs.

What pushes the bill up

• Floors without a lift: every extra floor adds time.
• Parking: in Geneva, Lausanne or Zurich, a reserved space in front of the building avoids costly detours. The request goes through the municipal police and costs a few dozen francs.
• Heavy or fragile items: piano, aquarium, antique wardrobe. Mention them in the request.
• The date: month ends, quarter ends and holiday periods are in high demand. A mid-week move is often cheaper.

How to pay less

Pack your own boxes and disassemble what can be disassembled. Group small items, empty the furniture. Make an honest inventory of the volume: a provider who finds twice as many boxes as announced will have to come back, and you will pay for the second trip.

On Helfa you describe your move, state the date and the floor, and providers from your area reply with a price. You compare reviews left after real jobs and choose. The price is settled directly between you.

Insurance and liability

An independent provider does not necessarily carry transport insurance. Ask clearly before confirming, and for valuables check whether your household insurance covers the move. The job agreement signed on Helfa keeps a written record of the price, the date and what was agreed, which helps a lot in case of disagreement.