Moving from Geneva to Lausanne

Hiring a professional moving company is the most efficient and reliable way to relocate. Professional movers handle everything from packing and loading to transportation and unloading. They bring the right equipment (trucks, furniture dollies, even external elevators for high apartments) and the expertise to ensure your items are moved safely.

By choosing insured, qualified movers, you reduce the risk of damage to your furniture and save yourself the stress of managing logistics. Professional services also include added benefits like furniture disassembly/reassembly and, in some cases, temporary storage.

This guide focuses exclusively on professional moving options. We will provide detailed cost estimates, top-rated companies, and everything else you need to plan a seamless move from Geneva to Lausanne.

Understanding the cost of your move is essential for budgeting and planning ahead. While Geneva and Lausanne are relatively close (about an hour’s drive), moving costs can vary significantly depending on the size of your home, volume of furniture, and additional services such as packing or furniture assembly.

Swiss moving companies typically calculate prices based on the number of rooms, access conditions (e.g. floor level, presence of elevators), and any special items that need handling. Quotes are usually fixed after an in-person or video survey, ensuring clarity and avoiding surprises on moving day.

Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a professional move between Geneva and Lausanne, depending on whether you're moving a medium-sized apartment or a larger family home.

• 2-Bedroom Apartment:
  Budget CHF 1,000–1,500 for a full-service move. Most quotes cluster around CHF 1,200. Costs vary based on volume, floor access, and extras like packing.

• 4-Bedroom House:
  Expect CHF 2,000–3,000 depending on volume, complexity, and optional services. A typical move lands around CHF 2,500, but can be more for larger homes or challenging logistics.

Prices are usually offered as fixed quotes after an inventory assessment. Professional moves between these cities are typically completed within one day.

Why such a difference? Smaller apartments simply take fewer hours and fewer truckloads, whereas a big house might require multiple truck trips or a very large truck and crew. The distance (Geneva–Lausanne) is fixed (~1 hour drive), so most of the cost variance is due to volume of items and manpower needed. The good news is that intercity moves within Switzerland are typically done in a single day. For example, a professional crew might load up a 2-bedroom flat in the morning and have you in your Lausanne apartment by afternoon. Larger homes might take a full day or even two days (one day to pack/load, next day to deliver and unload). When getting quotes, you’ll often receive a fixed price or an hourly rate with an estimate of hours – make sure it’s clear. Swiss companies often prefer to do an in-person or video assessment for an accurate fixed quote.

When relocating between Geneva and Lausanne, choosing a trusted moving company is essential for a smooth, efficient transition. Here are five reputable providers known for their professionalism, reliability, and tailored service:

If there’s a delay between leaving your Geneva home and entering your new one in Lausanne, or if your new space is smaller, storage can bridge the gap efficiently.

Self-Storage Units

Private storage rooms from providers like Zebrabox, Shurgard, or Homebox let you access your belongings anytime. Spaces range from small lockers to large rooms. Pricing is typically CHF 30–50 per square meter per month, which means CHF 150–400 monthly for a standard unit. Clean, secure, and flexible.

Storage via Moving Companies (Garde-Meubles)

Many movers offer storage in sealed wooden crates at their warehouses. It’s ideal for hands-off, short- or mid-term storage if you won’t need access until final delivery. Pricing usually ranges between CHF 9–11 per cubic meter per month. Efficient, secure, and logistically simple—especially for interim gaps between leases.

Locations and Access

Both cities offer numerous facilities. Storage in smaller towns between Geneva and Lausanne may be more affordable. Some companies also offer temporary depot storage for a few days at a flat rate, without formally renting a unit.

Recommendation

Use self-storage if you want to add or remove items during the period. Choose moving company storage for streamlined logistics and better pricing if you won’t need access until move-in.

• Electricity, Water, and Gas
  These services are typically managed by Services Industriels de Lausanne (SiL). If you're renting, the property management may handle the transfer; otherwise, contact SiL directly to open an account. You'll need to provide your move-in date and address. In most cases, electricity and water are already connected — you just need to register under your name. If gas is used in the building, it’s usually managed by the same provider.

• Internet and Telecom
  Lausanne is well connected. The main providers are Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt, and Citycable (run by SiL). Contact your preferred provider 2–3 weeks before your move to schedule activation. Many buildings are already wired for fiber or cable, so setup can often be done remotely. If not, a technician appointment may be required.

• Heating
  Most buildings have centralized heating, and costs are included in the rent or building service charges. If the heating system is individual, check with your landlord for instructions and setup responsibilities.

• Waste Management and Address Registration
  In Lausanne, waste disposal follows the "taxe au sac" system. You must use official taxed garbage bags, available in local shops. Also, remember to register your new address at the local commune office within 14 days of moving in. It’s also a good idea to set up mail forwarding with Swiss Post to ensure you don’t miss important correspondence.

With these essentials in place, your new home will be fully functional, and you’ll avoid any disruption during your first days in Lausanne.