Switzerland: Your Key to the Luxury Market? An Overview of Marketplaces for Export from Ukraine

When Ukrainian entrepreneurs plan their exports, their sights often fall on the USA, Canada, or EU countries. But have you considered Switzerland? This country isn’t just the heart of Europe with incredible landscapes; it’s also one of the wealthiest markets in the world. For Ukrainian sellers of fashion, antiques, watches, and unique musical instruments, it could be a real “gold mine.” However, like any premium market, it has its specifics and requires a careful approach.

Let’s explore which online platforms can help you open the door to Swiss buyers and why it’s worth your attention, even if you’re already successfully selling on Amazon or Etsy.

Why is Switzerland attractive?

• High purchasing power – Swiss consumers are willing to pay for quality, uniqueness, and craftsmanship.
• Demand for uniqueness – products with a story, handmade items, and unconventional designs are in demand.
• Developed e-commerce – a high level of digitalization and trust in online shopping.
• Challenges = opportunities – the country is not part of the EU, so there are specific customs and logistics regulations. However, those who solve these with a reliable partner gain access to a less competitive market.

Main marketplaces in Switzerland: where to sell?

Ricardo.ch:

• What it is: a local giant, the Swiss equivalent of eBay. Everything is sold here – from stamps to designer bags and musical instruments. Offers both auctions and direct sales.
• Best for: sellers of antiques, vintage, fashion, instruments, and collectible items.
• Advantages: large audience, trust, wide category range.
• Challenges: language barrier (platform operates in German, French, and Italian), requires understanding of local regulations.

Tutti.ch:

• What it is: the largest classified ads website in Switzerland, similar to OLX.
• Best for: antiques, second-hand goods, furniture, vintage.
• Advantages: easy to use, high traffic, quick posting.
• Challenges: competition from private sellers, less premium reputation.

Chrono24.com:

• What it is: a global platform, a must for those selling watches in Switzerland.
• Best for: new, used, vintage, and collectible watches.
• Advantages: affluent audience, global reach, high level of trust.
• Challenges: strict authenticity requirements, high commissions.

Niche and specialized platforms:

• 1stDibs / Pamono – antiques, art, designer furniture. Hard to get in, but very prestigious.
• Zalando.ch – a large platform for fashion brands. High requirements for volume and standards.
• Avocado Store (DE/CH) – if your products are eco-friendly, this German platform delivering to Switzerland could be a good fit.

What Ukrainian sellers should consider

• Customs and taxes – Switzerland has its own rules. The partner GlobalPost will help with documentation and delivery cost calculation.
• Logistics – delivery should be reliable and preferably fast. Packaging must be impeccable.
• Language and service – offering customer support in French or German is desirable. It builds trust.
• Quality – not an advantage but a must. This applies to products, photos, descriptions, and communication.

Conclusion

Switzerland is not the easiest, but an exceptionally lucrative market for exporters with unique and high-quality products. You can start with Ricardo.ch to test the demand.

For reliable delivery to Switzerland, request a shipping estimate for:

• private shipments from Ukraine
• business clients and export solutions

In upcoming articles, we will explore registration and operations on individual platforms. Do you already have experience selling to Switzerland? Tell us during a consultation – we’ll help you scale!