Parking permit when moving to Zurich and Winterthur — What you need to know

Why parking permits are so important when moving

A moving van needs space — preferably directly in front of the entrance and exit of the building. Anyone moving in a city such as Zurich or Winterthur knows that free parking spaces near the building are rare, and parking in a parking area that is prohibited or in reserved spaces not only costs a bus, but also valuable time.

The solution is an official No-stop zone or Moving parking permit, which is requested for the moving day. With this permit, the moving transporter may park legally and without interruption directly in front of the building. That sounds like bureaucracy — but it's easier to apply for than many think.

When do you need a parking permit?

Not every move necessarily requires an official permit. In principle, the following applies:

Parking permit required for

• Moving to urban areas with restricted parking
• Blue zone or white zone in front of the building
• No-stop zone on the street in front of the entrance
• sidewalk area or pedestrian zone that needs to be temporarily blocked
• Multi-family houses without their own underground garage or parking space

Parking permit is generally not required for

• Moving to rural areas with sufficient public parking space
• Building with private parking right in front of the entrance
• One-way streets with wide side strips without restrictions

In case of doubt, it is recommended to always apply for a permit. The costs for this are manageable — a bus or a forced vehicle shift in the middle of a move is significantly more expensive and more nerve-wracking.

Apply for a parking permit in Zurich

The City of Zurich has a clearly regulated procedure for applying for temporary no-stop zones for removals.

Responsible body

In Zurich, the Traffic Department (DAV) the City of Zurich is responsible for issuing no-stop permits. The application is made online via the municipal portal or in writing by post.

Deadlines and lead time

The City of Zurich recommends that the permit be at least 10 working days before the planned moving date to apply for. In high season — i.e. in spring and summer — the processing time can be longer. If you want to be on the safe side, apply for approval 3 to 4 weeks in advance.

Required information

To apply, you need the following information:

• Exact address of the moving location
• Desired date and time frame
• Number and size of vehicles required
• Applicant's contact details
• Indication of whether the permit is valid for the move-in or move-out address

expenses

The costs for a no-stop permit in Zurich vary depending on the duration and number of parking spaces occupied. Calculate costs between CHF 50 and CHF 150 for a normal moving day. These costs are minimal compared to a bus or a towing operation.

Apply for a parking permit in Winterthur

Winterthur also has a regulated procedure for relocation parking permits — with some special features compared to the large neighboring city.

Responsible body

In Winterthur, that is Winterthur City Police or the responsible Traffic Department the city is responsible for no-stop permits. The application can be made by telephone, e-mail or online.

Deadlines and lead time

In Winterthur, a lead time of at least 5 to 10 working days. In quieter months, the permit can also be issued at short notice — but don't rely on it, especially in high season.

Special features in the old town and narrow quarters

There are special regulations in Winterthur's old town and in older districts with narrow streets. Here, it is particularly important to clarify the exact road situation in advance and, if necessary, to discuss with the authorities which parking areas are actually suitable for a moving van.

What happens if you don't have a permit?

Parking a moving van in a restricted area without a valid permit can have the following consequences:

busses

There is a risk of fines in Zurich and Winterthur if parking is prohibited illegally CHF 40 to CHF 120 — depending on the duration and seriousness of the infringement.

towing

In the worst case scenario, the vehicle is towed away. Not only does this cost money — towing fees are often included CHF 300 to CHF 500 — but also interrupts the entire relocation process. A towed van in the middle of a move is a scenario that no one wants to experience.

loss of time and stress

Even if no buses are issued, parking without a permit often costs time and nerves. Residents complain that the team has to move the vehicle again and again and the process loses its rhythm.

Gerber Transport takes care of the application for you

At Gerber Transport, applying for a parking permit is part of the all-round service. We know the procedures in Zurich, Winterthur and the entire region and take care of all necessary permits in good time — so that everything runs smoothly on the moving day.

You don't have to worry about anything: no going to the authorities, no filling out forms, no waiting for confirmations. We do it for you — professionally and reliably.

Contact us for a non-binding offer and see how stress-free moving to Zurich or Winterthur can be.

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