Moving from Bern to Thun

Making the Short Hop from Bern to Thun – Tips, Costs, and Local Know-How

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Moving from the Swiss capital city of Bern to the charming town of Thun (just about 30 km away) can be an exciting new chapter. Even though it’s a relatively short distance (around a half-hour drive via the A6 motorway), a successful move requires good planning and organization. This guide will walk you through key considerations, cost estimates, local moving companies, and practical tips to help make your relocation from Bern to Thun as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Why People Are Moving to Thun

Thun isn’t just scenic—it’s practical too. Many families and professionals are drawn to its blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. The town offers excellent schools, reliable public transportation, and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and water sports. For those working in Bern, it’s a short commute, but living in Thun often means lower rents and more space. Whether you're seeking calmer surroundings, a better work-life balance, or just a new chapter, Thun continues to be a top choice for relocation within the canton. Its vibrant cultural scene, lakeside promenades, and easy day trips to the Alps make it especially appealing for young families and retirees alike.

What Makes the Bern–Thun Route Unique

The short move from Bern to Thun is one of the more straightforward relocations in Switzerland—but that doesn’t mean it’s without its quirks. The route follows the well-maintained A6 motorway and typically takes just 30–40 minutes by car or truck. This makes same-day moves very doable, even for larger households.

What sets this route apart is the contrast in lifestyle. While Bern offers the pulse of a capital city, Thun leans into a slower rhythm with lakeside views and proximity to the Alps. Despite the short distance, the change in scenery and pace can feel like a big upgrade for many movers.

Still, timing matters. Traffic can build up during weekday rush hours, and some neighborhoods in both cities may require advance permission or signage for moving vans. Always check whether you’ll need to reserve parking or apply for a temporary no-parking zone on the day of your move.

Choosing a Moving Company (Bern–Thun)

Hiring a professional moving company can greatly simplify your move. Professional movers will handle the heavy lifting, transport, and even packing or furniture assembly if you need. When choosing a mover for a Bern to Thun relocation, consider the following:

  • Get Multiple Quotes: Prices can vary, so it’s wise to contact a few companies. Describe your move details (size of your home, number of rooms, distance, any special items) to get accurate estimates. Many Swiss moving firms will send someone for a quick home survey or ask you to fill an inventory checklist online. Always request a written quote with a cost estimate or cap, so you know the maximum you might pay.
  • Services Offered: Ask what services are included in the quote. Does it cover disassembling and reassembling furniture, or is that extra? What about packing materials, or an end-of-tenancy cleaning service? Choose a company that offers the services you need. For example, if you want a full-service move (with packing and unpacking), make sure the company has trained packers. If you only need transport, you might opt for a smaller local outfit that just provides a truck and movers.
  • Insurance and Reliability: Check that the mover has insurance to cover any potential damage during transit. Reputable Swiss moving companies carry liability insurance for your goods. It’s also a good idea to read reviews or get recommendations – reliability and professionalism are key for a stress-free experience. Look for companies with good customer feedback on handling items carefully and sticking to agreed schedules.
  • Language and Communication: In the Bern/Thun region, many movers will speak German (and often English). Make sure you’re comfortable communicating with the team or that there’s a contact person who speaks your language, so instructions (like which boxes go where in the new home) are clear on moving day.

Recommended Local Moving Companies

There are many moving companies servicing the Canton of Bern. Here are a few well-regarded options that can handle a move from Bern to Thun:

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Kehrli + Oeler AG (Bern)

A long-established Swiss moving company (over 100 years of experience) based in Bern. They handle local and international moves, offer packing services, furniture disassembly/reassembly, and even storage solutions. Their deep experience in the region means they know how to navigate tight Bern city streets and Thun’s neighborhoods efficiently.

Peyer Bern Movers

A Bern-based moving and transport company with decades of experience in the area. They provide private moving services for anything from a small apartment to a large house. Peyer also offers storage facilities, which is useful if you need to store furniture between moving out and moving in. Their team is known for being professional and careful with belongings.

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MoveAgain (Online Platform)

MoveAgain is a Swiss online platform that partners with various local moving companies. You can input your move details (from Bern to Thun, size of home, date, etc.) on their website and get an instant quote or booking. It’s a convenient option if you want a quick price and a vetted mover without calling around. The platform often bundles services like cleaning if you need it.

MOVU (Comparison Platform)

MOVU is another popular service in Switzerland where you fill out one request and receive several quotes from different moving companies. It’s backed by a major insurer and has many partner movers. Using MOVU can help you compare prices and services for the Bern–Thun route easily, and they often provide a personal advisor to answer questions.

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Price Estimates for Moving from Bern to Thun

Moving from Bern to Thun is a short-distance move, but costs can still vary depending on the size of your home, how much help you need, and which extras you include (like packing or storage). Below are average price estimates in CHF, broken down by home size and optional services.

Moving a 2-Bedroom Apartment (Approx. 70–90 m²)

For a typical 2-bedroom flat (often called a 3 to 3.5 room apartment in Switzerland):

  • Basic Transport (Truck + 2–3 Movers): CHF 1,000–1,300
  • Packing Service (Optional): CHF 200–500 for half- or full-day packing help
  • End-of-Tenancy Cleaning (Optional): CHF 500–800, depending on size and condition
  • Furniture Disassembly/Reassembly: CHF 100–300 if not included
  • Short-Term Storage (Optional): CHF 100–200 for a few weeks; CHF 300–600/month

💡 Most people spend around CHF 1,500 when combining basic transport and professional cleaning.

Moving a 3+ Bedroom House (Approx. 120–150+ m²)

For a larger home with more furniture and boxes:

  • Basic Transport (Large Truck + 3–5 Movers): CHF 1,500–2,500
  • Packing Service: CHF 500–1,000 for a team packing over one or two days
  • Cleaning: CHF 800–1,200, especially for multi-floor homes
  • Furniture Help: CHF 200–400 for complex or bulky pieces
  • Storage: CHF 400–800/month depending on volume and duration

💡 A full-service move (with packing and cleaning) can reach CHF 3,000–4,000. Many families keep it closer to CHF 2,500 by doing some packing themselves.

Note: These are rough averages. Your final cost depends on how much stuff you have, how accessible both properties are, and how much work the movers do vs. what you handle yourself.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Move

  • Label Boxes: Clearly write the room and contents on each box. Mark fragile ones so movers know to handle them with care.
  • Pack Essentials Separately: Keep a “first-day” box with clothes, toiletries, chargers, and basic kitchen items. Carry it with you for quick access.
  • Prioritize Important Items: Load beds and sofas last so they come out first. If possible, move fragile or valuable items in your own car.
  • Protect Valuables: Keep passports, documents, and jewelry with you—not in the truck.
  • Assign Roles: If friends or family help, give them specific tasks like directing movers or tidying up. Offer drinks or snacks to keep everyone energized.
  • Manage Parking and Neighbors: Reserve parking spots early. Let neighbors know in advance—especially if you’re in an apartment building.
  • Protect the Space: Use blankets or cardboard to protect floors and doorframes from scratches or dirt, especially if it’s rainy or snowy.
  • Do a Final Check: Before leaving, inspect every room, storage space, and garage. Take photos of the cleaned apartment for your records.
  • Stay Flexible: Expect small surprises. A positive attitude helps—by the end of the day, you’ll be settling into your new home in Thun!

Conclusion

Relocating from Bern to Thun might be a short journey geographically, but it’s still a significant life event. With proper planning – from scheduling your move and hiring a reliable moving company to packing smartly and preparing for moving day logistics – you can make the experience far less daunting. Keep in mind the cost breakdowns so you can budget accordingly, and don’t hesitate to use the optional services (packing, cleaning, etc.) if they fit your needs and budget; they can save you a lot of time and stress.

Thun is a beautiful town, known for its stunning lake and alpine views – a wonderful place to settle in. By following the tips and guidance above, you’ll be set up for a smooth move and can quickly start enjoying your new home.

Good luck with your move, and welcome to Thun!
Let this new chapter be the start of great memories.

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