Zollfreilager in Switzerland: VAT-free storage explained
How to use Swiss bonded warehouses to store silver and platinum without paying VAT.
A Zollfreilager (bonded warehouse) is a storage space located in Switzerland but legally 'outside customs territory'. Goods there are exempt from VAT as long as they are not imported into Swiss customs territory.
Interest for precious metals: Pure gold is already VAT-exempt in Switzerland. But silver (8.1% VAT) and platinum (8.1% VAT) benefit enormously from Zollfreilager: storing 100 kg of silver VAT-free saves ~CHF 8,000.
Main Zollfreilager locations: Geneva (Ports Francs et Entrepôts de Genève SA), Zurich (Via Mat International), Chiasso (in Ticino, close to refineries). Each offers secure vaults, full insurance and controlled access.
Costs: Typical storage fees: 0.5-1.2% of value per year, including insurance and audit. Minimum entry: generally CHF 50,000 in metal value.
Exit conditions: When you physically remove the metal from the Zollfreilager to Switzerland, VAT is due immediately. If you sell to a foreign buyer directly from the warehouse, no VAT applies.