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Moving Days in Switzerland: Important Dates and Legal Entitlements

Planning a move within Switzerland? Learn about important moving dates, legal entitlements, notice periods, and weekend moving rules. Get informed to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Moving within Switzerland involves navigating various important dates and legal entitlements. Understanding these can make your move smoother and help you avoid potential pitfalls. At a moving company in Basel Classic Umzüge, we want to ensure you are well-prepared for your move. Here’s a detailed guide on the critical dates, notice periods, and rules for moving in Switzerland.

Moving Days in Switzerland
Key dates and legal entitlements for moving in Switzerland.

Key Moving Dates in Switzerland

In Switzerland, moving dates are influenced by historical and practical factors. Historically, the peak periods for moving are at the end of March, June, and September. This tradition originated from agricultural practices when lease agreements for farms typically ended during these times.

Typical Moving Times:

  • End of the Month: Most rental contracts end, making this a common moving time.
  • Beginning or Middle of the Month: These periods can be cheaper for moving services due to lower demand.

Important Note: Moving on December 31st is prohibited in some cantons, so plan accordingly.

Official Moving Dates by Canton:

CantonRegular Local Termination DatesNotice Periods
Aargau31 March, 30 June, 30 September3 months*
Appenzell AusserrhodenEnd of every month except December3 months*
Appenzell InnerrhodenEnd of every month except December3 months*
Basel-LandschaftEnd of every month except December3 months*
Basel CityEnd of every month except December3 months*
BernCity and surrounding area: 30 April, 31 October3 months*
Varies by commune: every end of month except December
Fribourg31 March, 30 June, 30 September, 31 December3 months*
GenevaNo regular local termination dates3 months*
GlarusEnd of every month3 months*
GraubündenVaries by commune: 31 March, (30 June), 30 September3 months*
JuraVaries by commune: 31 March, 30 June, 30 September, 31 December3 months*
LucerneNo regular local termination dates3 months*
Neuchâtel31 March, 30 June, 30 September3 months*
Nidwalden31 March, 30 June, 30 September3 months*
Obwalden31 March, 30 June, 30 September3 months*
SchaffhausenEnd of every month except December3 months*
SchwyzEnd of every month except December3 months*
Solothurn31 March, 30 September3 months*
District of Olten-Gösgen: 31 March, 30 June, 30 September
St. GallenEnd of every month except December3 months*
TicinoLugano and surrounding area: 29 March, 29 September3 months*
Varies by commune: no regular termination dates, or 31 March, 30 September
ThurgauVaries by commune: end of every month except December, or 31 March, 30 June, 30 September3 months*
UriEnd of every month except December3 months*
VaudVaries by commune: 1 April, 1 July, 1 October3 months*
ValaisNo regular local termination dates3 months*
Zug31 March, 30 June, 30 September3 months*
ZurichCity: 31 March, 30 September3 months*
Canton: 31 March, 30 June, 30 September
Official Moving Dates by Canton

Source: Mieterverband

*otherwise it depends on the contract terms

Good to know: Sometimes you need to move out urgently, and it’s not possible to keep to the official termination dates. In that case, you can give notice early.

Notice Periods for Rental Apartments

When moving out of a rental apartment in Switzerland, you must adhere to specific notice periods:

  • First Year of Employment: One month’s notice from the last day of the month. For example, if you terminate on June 13, your contract ends on July 31.
  • Second to Ninth Year of Employment: Two months’ notice from the last day of the month.

This notice period is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Rules for Moving In/Out During a Weekend

Moving during weekends is possible, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  • Noise Restrictions: Be mindful of noise regulations, especially in residential areas. Quiet hours typically start at 10 PM, so plan your move accordingly.
  • Elevator and Building Access: Ensure you have permission to use elevators and other common areas during the weekend.
  • Sundays Prohibited: It is prohibited to move on Sundays in Switzerland. Moves can be done on Saturdays, and other availabilities can be checked when you send us a request.
  • Classic Umzüge Availability: At Classic Umzüge, we are available for moves on Saturdays. Other availabilities can be checked when you send us a request. You can receive your free moving quote now.

Negotiating with a Regie for Move-Out Dates

Negotiating your move-out date with a regie (property management company) can provide some flexibility. Here are some tips on how to effectively negotiate your move-out date:

  • Communicate Early: Start the conversation with your regie as early as possible to allow ample time for negotiation.
  • Be Flexible: While you should propose your preferred move-out date, be prepared to offer alternative dates that could work for both parties.
  • Understand Their Needs: Recognize that the regie may have specific requirements or constraints, such as coordinating with new tenants or scheduling maintenance.

Clear communication and a willingness to compromise can lead to a mutually beneficial agreement. If you need to move out before your lease ends, it’s important to understand the legal implications and your rights. Read our comprehensive guide on moving out before lease end in Basel for more information.


FAQs: Moving Apartments in Switzerland

Q: As long as I continue paying rent on both apartments, am I under any obligation to notify my existing real estate company that I am moving? A: You can start emptying out the old apartment and moving everything to the new one without immediately notifying your existing real estate company. However, it’s best to inform them to avoid any misunderstandings and to schedule the final inspection.

Q: When do I actually notify the relevant cantonal authorities of my new residence – based on the date of the signed lease or the actual move date? A: Notify the cantonal authorities based on your actual move date. You should register at your new address within 14 days of moving in.

Q: Does the new real estate company care that I move on the specific date – or does it simply care that I start paying the rent on that date and receive the keys? A: The new real estate company primarily cares that you start paying rent on the agreed date and receive the keys. You can take your time moving in, as long as you meet these requirements.

Q: How does finding a replacement tenant work if the agency wants to increase the rent? A: When finding a replacement tenant, the new tenant must be willing to take over the lease under existing conditions. The agency cannot increase the rent for the new tenant without going through proper procedures.

Q: Can I move during a weekend? A: Yes, you can move during a weekend. However, be mindful of noise restrictions, ensure you have permission for building access, and confirm the availability of professional movers like Classic Umzüge, who are available for Saturday moves. Note that moving on Sundays is prohibited in Switzerland.

Q: What is the cheapest time to move? A: The beginning or middle of the month is typically cheaper due to lower demand for moving services.

Q: What if my move-in date falls on a weekend or holiday? A: It is not illegal to move on weekends, but the rental law states that an apartment has to be handed over during “usual business hours.” If the start of a rental contract falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or public holiday, the handover is moved to the next business day. You will not have to pay rent for the days you couldn’t move in.

For more information on securing your rental deposit and how to get it back, check out our detailed article on rental deposits.


Real-Life Moving Experiences in Switzerland

Moving can be a unique experience depending on the time and circumstances. Here are three real-life stories that illustrate different aspects of moving within Switzerland.

1. Moving Out Before the End of the Contract Date: I had to move out of my apartment before my lease ended because I found a new job in another city. This meant I needed to find a replacement tenant quickly. I listed the apartment online and scheduled viewings. It was a bit stressful managing viewings while preparing for my move, but I eventually found a suitable tenant. I notified my landlord and provided the new tenant’s details. The landlord was cooperative, and I was able to move out without any financial penalties.

2. Moving on a Weekend: When I moved to my new apartment, I chose to move on a Saturday to avoid taking time off work. The team from Classic Umzüge arrived early in the morning and efficiently packed and loaded my belongings. They were mindful of the noise regulations, ensuring we finished the move before 10 PM. Despite the hustle, moving on a weekend allowed me to settle in and unpack without the pressure of returning to work immediately. Remember, Sunday moves are prohibited, so plan accordingly.

3. Moving in the Middle of the Month and Midweek: My lease ended in the middle of the month, so I decided to move on a Wednesday. It turned out to be a great decision. There was less traffic, and the movers were available at a lower rate. The midweek move meant fewer interruptions and a more flexible schedule. The whole process was smooth, and I had plenty of time to organize and settle into my new place before the weekend.


To Sum Up

Understanding the key dates and legal entitlements for moving in Switzerland can significantly simplify your moving process. Whether you’re navigating notice periods or planning a weekend move, being informed is essential. At Moving services in Basel Classic Umzüge, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you need assistance with your move, send us an inquiry, and we will send you a free moving quote without obligation.

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5 Comments

Join the discussion and tell us your opinion.

  1. Maria

    I have a problematic situation and need some advice.

    I’m moving from Basel to Zurich and renting an apartment starting on May 1st. However, today I received a message from the rental agency informing me that I can only move in on May 3rd. They explained that there is a rule stating current tenants do not have to vacate over the weekend. This is a major issue for me since I’m moving from another country and starting my new job on May 3rd.

    Is there really such a rule? Unfortunately, the agency never mentioned this when I signed the contract months ago, and there’s nothing in the contract about it either.

    Is there any way I can move in on May 1st or even May 2nd? I have to leave my current place by April 30th.

    • Classic Umzüge

      Moving on weekends is not against the law. However, rental regulations require that apartment handovers occur during “usual business hours.” Therefore, if your rental contract starts on a Saturday, Sunday, or a public holiday (such as May 1st or August 1st), the handover will be postponed to the next business day. Typically, the current tenant must return the keys by noon, so you likely won’t be able to move in until the afternoon of May 3rd.

      Keep in mind that you will not be charged rent for the days you couldn’t move in, meaning you should receive a discount of at least 2/31 of your monthly rent.

      • Maria

        Unfortunately, there is a clause buried deep in the contract that allows them to arrange the takeover after the weekend. While the second page clearly states that the rental period begins at 12:00 PM on May 1st, a hidden subsection specifies that if the rental period starts on a weekend or holiday, the takeover can be moved to the next working day.

        This highlights the risk of signing a contract in a language you’re not proficient in. Ultimately, it’s my responsibility. Thanks for all the advice!

    • Sophie

      I guess your best option is to put your stuff in the basement and get a hotel. Protip: Enjoy the restaurant while you’re there. Just before anyone gets confused: May 1 is only a public holiday (i.e., Sunday equivalent day) in some cantons, like Zurich.

  2. Jeff

    Usually, you can enter your new place a couple of days early without having to pay for it. Some landlords grant a couple of days, my last place granted me two weeks of at least putting my stuff in there or in the basement and moving there four days before the start of the contract.

    So maybe just rent the new place from July on but ask them if you can put your stuff into the apartment a couple of days early so you get a week of free rent at your new place without having to pay double.

    Also, did you already terminate the contract? It’s usually a three-month notice, and you’d already be late for that (can only terminate by the end of every month). Usually, staying a week longer would be less of an issue (most don’t let someone in the day after you’re out) than leaving three weeks early.

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