Coronavirus – information for Packimpex customers

Will you provide me with masks and disinfectant, or do I need to bring these myself at property viewings?
We do recommend that you bring your own mask. If this isn’t possible, just let us know in advance.

How does the consultant accompany the handover of my apartment to the landlord during the pandemic?
The consultant will meet you in front of the property and will wear a mask during the handover if necessary and if social distancing is not possible.

Can I skip the property handover and have the consultant do it on my behalf?
Yes, of course! We are pleased to do the handover on your behalf, but please keep in mind that it is quite helpful to join, as you will get some more details about handling your property. In case you won’t be able to join, please be aware that we would need Power of Attorney to act on your behalf.

Can I skip the property handback and have the consultant do it on my behalf?
See above – as with property handovers, we can take care of the handback for you if we have Power of Attorney.

Are rental prices lower due to the current situation?
No, rental prices have not changed because of the COVID-19 situation.

Is the pre-exit inspection of my apartment done physically or virtually?
This depends on your needs. We are pleased to offer both options.

If I have to leave Switzerland, can I request an early termination of my lease without having to find a new tenant?
COVID-19 is not a condition or circumstance that can be used to terminate a lease contract in advance. Terms and conditions must still be followed during this time.

Are your Relocation Consultants and moving crews being regularly tested for COVID-19?
No, but they are following all the measures established by the Swiss government.

Can I get a discount if I book my move now and have it organised later?
We always try to offer the best solution in terms of service and price. Your Sales Adviser will inform you of your best options.

What if I book my moving service but the travel restrictions are not lifted yet – can I reschedule the moving date without any additional costs?
We always try to be as flexible as possible and offer rescheduling possibilities free of charge. If we have to make a definitive and non-refundable booking (container, truck, etc.) for your relocation, we will let you know in advance.

Will the surveyor come to my home for the survey or do you offer surveys over Skype / Whatsapp?
We offer our surveys free of charge over Whatsapp or Skype. This method has proven to be very effective. If your circumstances do not allow to have a virtual survey, please contact your Sales Adviser to find another solution.

Will the moving crew disinfect all the furniture after delivery?
The moving crew will follow all health measures set by the government. Our crews will not disinfect the furniture upon delivery. Exceptions can be made, but this will be assessed only in special circumstances. Our temporary furniture is cleaned thoroughly after every pickup.

Are your moving crews larger than five people?
Currently, the moving crews are not larger than five people. Moving crews might ask the truck driver for extra support, but the driver would not be entering your property.

Are your Relocation Consultants and moving crews being regularly tested for COVID-19?
Unless one of our crew members is considered a high risk for COVID-19, we follow the advice of the Federal Council not to test but to take all necessary precautions into consideration (social distancing, personal protection equipment, disinfection, etc.).

Is it possible to register and de-register with the immigration office online?
When moving to Switzerland from abroad, registrations need to be completed on site. While some cantons and cities in Switzerland do offer online de-registration, this is not commonly practiced and in most cases on-site de-registration will be required.

When are the immigration offices re-opening?
As of June 8, new applications of EU/Schengen nationals will be handled again. There has not yet been any indication as to when applications from non-Schengen areas will be possible again on a broader scale. For certain categories of people, exceptions may already apply. We recommend checking out the immigration news from our immigration partner, BDO.

If I order a car from one of your partners, will the car be disinfected when delivered?
The exterior and interior of cars ordered through our partners are thoroughly cleaned and are additionally disinfected to ensure they are as safe and clean as possible. Some partners use disposable protection kits for the seat, steering wheel and gear lever. During the delivery, the driver will wear a mask and gloves, keep their distance, and disinfect the parts of the car that they have come into contact with.

Can I attend language courses in a classroom during the pandemic?
Yes, this is possible with certain limitations. There is a maximum group size of four students allowed per class.

Are COVID-19 test kits easily available in Switzerland in case I feel sick?
Switzerland currently has sufficient tests available and is one of the countries with the highest test rate per capita. In fact, it is also the safest country in the world in terms of the Coronavirus, according to the non-profit Deep Knowledge Group study.

Are masks available in Switzerland or is there a shortage?
Currently there is no shortage of masks in Switzerland. Masks are available in pharmacies, supermarkets and online shops.

Is it safe to use public transportation in Switzerland?
The Swiss government has lifted restrictions on use of public transportation in Switzerland. It is recommended to wear a mask and to keep a distance of two metres from other passengers if possible. In fact, Switzerland is also the safest country in the world in terms of the Coronavirus, according to the non-profit Deep Knowledge Group study.

When arriving in Switzerland, do I need to report if I have previously tested positive and fully recovered from COVID-19?
No such requirement is in place at the moment.