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Transport
The country’s infrastructure is efficient, well maintained and
geared to match those of its neighbours, making hassle free connections.
This state-of-the-art infrastructure applies to transport, energy
and communication systems.
Railways
There are altogether around 56 small private companies controlling
private railways, along short mountain routes, with total length of
approximately 2,032 km.
Roads
In 1994, Switzerland had 71,348 km of roads, 1,542 km of motorways,
18,297 km of other main roads and 51,542 km of motorways, 18,297 km
of other main roads and 51,197 km of secondary roads.
Inland Waterways
The Swiss Rhine and land fleet numbered 161 vessels in 1994.
Sea Freight
Switzerland is landlocked. Places in Switzerland can be reached by
Europe coastal ports. Shipments to Basel may be made via Rhine River.
Some of the Principal Shipping Companies are as follows:
Hamburger Lloyd
Keler Shipping Ltd.
Massoel SA
Mediterranean Shipping Co.
Air Freight
Switzerland principle airports are situated at Zurich, Geneva and
Mulharse. Swiss airline "Crossair" operates a regional and
supplementary air transport service across Europe. ‘Swiss air’
has offices in all major cities of the world, with services to Europe,
the Middle East, Africa, North and South America and the Far East.
Communication
Switzerland has a very efficient and state-of-the-art communication
system. However, certain products, petroleum products, washing powders
and their ingredient fertilizers, textile imports from certain countries,
weapons, explosives and narcotics require special authorization.
Import permits, which have a maximum validity of one year, may be
granted only to companies domiciled in Switzerland. Goods subject
to import restrictions do not need a permit, if the weight is less
than 20 kg.
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