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Recommendation: use on-site baggage storage: a staffed left-baggage counter and automated 24/7 lockers. For short stopovers under 72 hours prefer lockers to avoid counter-hour constraints and queueing; for long-term needs use staffed service and request written deposit conditions.
Location & access: lockers typically placed near ground-transport exit at Arrivals level; staffed counter found inside Departures area close to main check-in rows. Follow signage for Bagage or Consigne, present photo ID and boarding pass at drop-off, keep receipt until collection.
Rates & sizes: usual price bands: small lockers CHF 6–8 per 24h, medium CHF 10–14 per 24h, large CHF 16–22 per 24h; staffed counter charges commonly range CHF 6–30 per 24h depending on parcel dimensions and declared value. Ask operator about multi-day tariffs and maximum retention limits before deposit.
Restrictions & practical tips: prohibited items include explosives, flammables, perishables and undeclared high-value items. Photograph tag number, insure valuables separately, label bags with contact details, arrive at least 30 minutes before counter closing when using staffed service, and confirm pickup procedures and late-fee policy at time of deposit.
Short-term bag storage options at GVA
Use official left-baggage desk inside Arrivals level near ground transport for secure short-term storage; staff issue receipt with barcode and online tracking for easy collection.
Pricing & size limits
Typical charges: CHF 6–12 per 24h for small bags, CHF 12–20 per 24h for medium items, CHF 20–40 per 24h for oversized items such as bicycles or skis. Common locker dimensions: small ~35×40×60 cm, medium ~60×40×80 cm, large ~80×60×100 cm. Expected maximum weight per item usually around 30 kg; oversized or heavy-item fees may apply.
Rules & practical tips
Keep passport or photo ID plus storage receipt until collection. Do not store lithium batteries, flammable liquids, weapons, or other items restricted by dangerous-goods regulations. Photograph contents and record serial numbers for electronics before handing over. For passengers with onward flights, allow an extra 60–90 minutes to reclaim items and pass security again. Reserve space via operator app or website when possible to avoid queues; compare nearby city storage services at train-station locations for potentially lower daily rates. Retain receipts for insurance claims and verify insurer coverage for theft or damage during third-party storage.
GVA: Storage locations & opening hours
Use Left Baggage office at GVA Terminal 1 for staffed assistance; office located on Arrivals level, adjacent to Information desk near Exit A – hours 05:30–23:00 daily; automated lockers in Arrivals Hall accessible 24/7 for short stays.
Exact locations
Staffed counter: Arrivals level, Hall A, next to Information desk and customs exit. Lockers: row beside car rental kiosks in Arrivals Hall, marked “Consigne” with size labels S/M/L. For transfers between terminals, follow blue signage for “Consignes / Left Baggage”.
Opening hours and practical tips
Staffed office: 05:30–23:00 every day; last drop usually 22:00. Lockers: 24 hours, 7 days. For arrivals outside staffed-hours use lockers or contact on-site security for temporary assistance. Keep receipt and photo ID for collection. For multi-day storage ask staff about discounts and insurance options. Check online for current rates and rules or call GVA customer service before arrival. If rain expected, carry a compact umbrella such as best folding umbrella in the world.
Pricing, payment methods and maximum storage duration
Use staffed left-baggage counter for stays beyond 24 hours; choose locker units for short stops up to 24 hours.
Rates: small locker (up to 35 x 25 x 50 cm) CHF 6 per 24h; medium (50 x 35 x 60 cm) CHF 9 per 24h; large (80 x 55 x 120 cm) CHF 14 per 24h; oversized items handled at counter CHF 20 per 24h. Flat first-day minimum applies; additional days billed in 24h blocks. Weekly option sometimes available: 7 days for price of 6 on select services.
Payment: cash accepted in CHF and EUR, major cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro), contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Online prepayment via provider website often possible; on-site kiosks accept chip cards and contactless. Receipts issued on request; hold requires ID and signature.
Maximum storage duration: standard maximum 30 days for unattended lockers; staffed counter may accept items up to 90 days by prior arrangement. Overdue items incur daily fees and can be moved to long-term storage with potential disposal after 90 days. High-value items usually limited to 7 days unless additional insurance purchased; ask staff for special rules.
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Size and weight limits plus items prohibited from being stored
Use lockers for carry-on-sized pieces: max external dimensions 70×45×40 cm and max weight 30 kg per locker. For oversized or heavy pieces, approach staffed storage desk where acceptance limit is combined dimensions up to 150 cm (L+W+H) and weight up to 50 kg per item; manual handling fee may apply and staff will inspect before acceptance.
Avoid placing high-value or irreplaceable items into unattended lockers: cash, jewellery, travel documents, original hard drives, professional camera bodies and lenses. Keep such items on person or ask staff about secure deposit options; photo ID and signed declaration usually required for high-value deposits.
| Storage type | Max dimensions (cm) | Max weight (kg) | Operational notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small locker | 35 × 25 × 30 | 10 | Suitable for backpacks, small cases, shopping bags |
| Medium locker | 50 × 35 × 45 | 20 | Fits medium suitcases, camera bags |
| Large locker | 70 × 45 × 40 | 30 | Fits standard large suitcase or multiple smaller items |
| Staffed storage desk (oversize) | Combined dims up to 150 | Up to 50 | Bulky sports gear, musical instruments; subject to inspection and surcharge |
Items absolutely prohibited from storage include explosives and pyrotechnics, flammable liquids and gases (petrol, butane, lighter fuel), corrosive or toxic chemicals, compressed gas cylinders, radioactive materials, live animals, perishable food without refrigeration, stolen or illegal goods, and unlicensed firearms or ammunition. Spare lithium batteries above 100 Wh and loose battery packs may be refused; batteries installed in switched-off devices are generally accepted but may require special handling.
Pack liquids and fragile items securely; containers with hazardous markings or unclear contents will be denied. For unusual items (antique firearms, industrial tools, large batteries), contact staffed desk before arrival to confirm acceptance and any additional paperwork required.
How to reserve or pay online and choosing lockers versus staffed counters
Prefer online reservation for lockers; prepay with card or mobile wallet to secure spot and skip queues at staffed counters.
Steps for online booking and payment:
- Visit official GVA storage webpage or authorized partner platform.
- Pick date and time window; choose locker size or counter service.
- Provide name, email, phone number, and ID/passport number if requested.
- Select payment method: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Apple Pay, Google Pay, contactless card; some providers accept cash on arrival in CHF or EUR.
- Receive confirmation email with QR code or reservation ID; save screenshot for offline access.
- For cancellations or changes, check provider terms; many allow free changes up to 24 hours before reservation.
When to choose self-service lockers
- Short stays (a few hours up to 24 hours).
- Small-to-medium bags, backpacks, cabin suitcases.
- Quick access needed without formal receipt for customs or insurance claims.
- Lower cost per hour/day compared with staffed service; verify size availability before arrival.
- Not suitable for oversize items, fragile goods, batteries, or restricted materials.
When to choose staffed counters
- Longer storage (multiple days or weeks), bulky suitcases, sports equipment, musical instruments.
- Valuables or items requiring signed inventory and official receipt.
- Special handling requests: wrapping, third-party collection, extended insurance options.
- Staff can accept items prohibited from lockers and provide documentation for customs or work purposes.
Payment methods and proof at collection:
- Prepayment online secures slot; onsite payment usually accepted by card and cash (CHF/EUR), contactless preferred.
- Keep reservation confirmation and payment receipt; present ID at staffed counter for item release.
- QR-code scanning required for many lockers; keep phone charged or print confirmation.
- No-show or late pickup fees apply per provider rules; verify penalty amounts before booking.
Quick recommendations: book lockers ahead during peak hours; opt for staffed counter for bulky or high-value items; photograph contents and label tags; insure valuables separately.
How to collect your bags: ID required, receipts and lost/damaged-item procedure
Present original photo ID and storage receipt at collection counter; without both staff may refuse release.
Identification and collection rules
Accepted ID examples: passport, national ID card, EU/EEA ID, Swiss residency permit, valid driver’s license when name matches receipt. Digital receipt with visible QR code or booking reference is acceptable; staff may ask for printed copy if device fails. If collector is not owner, provide written authorization signed by owner plus photocopy of owner’s ID and collector’s ID. For minors, guardian must present ID and proof of guardianship. Outstanding charges must be settled before items are handed over.
Keep claim ticket until handover complete. Lost claim ticket triggers extended verification: expect identity checks, signed affidavit and possible manual search fee. For online reservations, show payment confirmation email or bank card used for booking when asked. For large or special items, arrange pickup time with staff to avoid waiting.
Lost or damaged-item procedure
Report missing or damaged items immediately at storage desk and file an incident report before leaving facility; if onsite report is impossible, submit written claim to customer service within 72 hours including photos, serial numbers, original purchase receipts and storage receipt or booking reference. For suspected theft obtain police report and forward a copy to storage operator. Retain originals of all supporting documents for insurer and claim processing.
Operators commonly state liability limits and claim deadlines on receipts and terms of service; check those conditions before depositing high-value items. For valuables keep items with you or use a locked hard-case and consider travel insurance or a reliable carry option such as best affordable travel duffel bag to reduce risk.
After filing a claim expect acknowledgement within 7–14 business days; request a claim number and contact email, track all correspondence and save replies. If dispute remains unresolved after operator response, escalate via consumer protection office or small-claims court according to local jurisdiction.
