CARNET SHIPPING FROM THE UK TO EUROPE AND BEYOND
Efficient Carnet Shipping for Temporary Exports
When exporting trade show samples, sports equipment, or work-related tools from the UK to the EU or other international destinations, an ATA Carnet—often called a passport for goods—is invaluable. It simplifies temporary exports, allowing you to move goods across borders cost-effectively, without paying duties or taxes at each checkpoint. Consult our experts to secure an ATA Carnet shipment and ensure your goods enter other countries abroad smoothly and without complications.
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Temporary Export Using Carnet Shipping
For high-value goods or specialist items that need to be moved temporarily without incurring duty, an ATA Carnet is a crucial document. With such a carnet, you can export a wide range of items without paying duty or posting bonds, including:
- Film and audio recordings: Equipment and media for production or broadcasting.
- Scientific, cultural and educational goods: Instruments for research, cultural exhibits or educational demonstrations.
- Professional equipment: Tools and machinery for construction, engineering or repair work.
- Exhibition materials: Trade show displays, promotional items and commercial samples.
Whether you’re moving goods from the UK to the EU or other international locations, an ATA Carnet simplifies the process, allowing your items to return to the UK without additional charges.
HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ATA CARNET
To begin, apply online through the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). Please check the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry website for up-to-date pricing information, but please be aware that you will need to provide a security deposit to cover potential duties and taxes.
Understanding how to apply and knowing the specific requirements of the destination country are essential to avoid delays, penalties, or additional costs. Consulting with a freight forwarder experienced in handling ATA Carnets can help ensure that your goods are transported smoothly and in compliance with all relevant regulations.
WHICH COUNTRIES CAN YOU EXPORT TO USING A CARNET?
The ATA Carnet is accepted in over 80 countries and territories, but the specific regulations and requirements can vary significantly from one country to another. Here are a few examples:
- European Union: When using an ATA Carnet to temporarily export goods to France and other EU countries, it’s crucial to ensure that all items are properly documented and declared. France is stringent about the accuracy of the carnet’s list of goods and any discrepancies can lead to delays or fines.
- United States: The US requires that goods temporarily imported under a Carnet must be for exhibition, trade shows or professional equipment. Additionally, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may require a detailed explanation of the intended use of the goods to ensure they meet eligibility criteria.
- Japan: In Japan, goods imported under an ATA Carnet must be re-exported within the Carnet’s validity period, which is typically one year. Japan strictly monitors the use of Carnets, particularly for high-value items like jewellery and electronics, where customs may require additional inspections or documentation.
- United Arab Emirates: The UAE allows the use of ATA Carnets for trade shows and exhibitions, but goods must be re-exported within six months. The customs authorities may require a bond or guarantee depending on the value and type of goods being imported.
- Switzerland: While Switzerland generally follows EU guidelines for carnet use, it has specific rules for transporting goods like pharmaceuticals and chemicals. These items may require additional documentation and proof of compliance with Swiss safety standards.
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REQUIREMENTS
Export Requirements for Carnet Shipping
VALIDITY AND RENEWAL OF AN ATA CARNET
A so-called passport for goods is valid for one year from the date of issue and cannot be extended or altered once issued. If you anticipate needing to keep your goods in the EU or other participating countries beyond this period, then you must apply for a replacement carnet before the original expires.
To secure a replacement, check with the local customs authority to confirm eligibility or, if your original carnet was issued outside the UK, consult with the National ATA Carnet Unit. It is also essential to determine whether the replacement carnet requires official endorsement. Once obtained, the replacement carnet should be attached to the original and sent to the National Carnet Unit for certification. The Unit will then return both documents to you.
USING YOUR ATA CARNET
When exporting goods with an ATA Carnet, you or your freight forwarder must present the carnet to customs officials at both the point of departure and upon entry into the destination country. Most EU countries, for example, will admit printed items such as brochures, catalogues and price lists duty-free. However, to avoid complications, it’s advisable to label such temporary exports as “no value.”
In some countries, samples of negligible value are admitted duty-free, but it is recommended that business visitors carrying commercial samples into the EU bring a letter from their company confirming that these items are not intended for sale. ATA Carnet shipment paperwork can also be used as a transit document in place of traditional customs documentation. However, you must still comply with all relevant licensing controls and regulations regarding restricted goods, even when shipping temporary exports.
PRESENTING YOUR ATA CARNET TO CUSTOMS
Before departure, ensure all sections of the ATA Carnet shipment documentation are fully completed and present it to a customs official for the green front cover to be checked and stamped. Failure to present the carnet before departure can result in it being withheld, causing potential delays or penalties.
Upon your return to the UK, you must present both the carnet and the goods at the point of entry. A customs officer will check the corresponding yellow voucher and stamp the matching counterfoil. If your goods are in your luggage, be sure to declare them at the designated red point or channel to ensure all procedures are correctly followed.
By carefully managing your ATA Carnet throughout the export process, you can streamline your temporary exports and avoid unnecessary complications.
Carnets FAQs
What is a carnet?
A carnet, often referred to as an ATA Carnet in the UK, is an international customs document that simplifies the temporary export of goods. It acts as a passport for your goods, allowing them to move freely across international borders without the need to pay customs duties or taxes. The carnet is accepted in over 80 countries, including all EU member states, and is particularly useful for businesses and professionals who frequently travel with goods for exhibitions, events, or professional purposes.
When do you need a carnet?
A carnet, specifically an ATA Carnet, is needed when you are temporarily exporting goods from the UK to other countries, including those in the European Union, without paying customs duties or taxes. This is particularly useful for items such as professional equipment, commercial samples, or goods for exhibitions and trade fairs. If your goods are intended to be returned to the UK without undergoing any changes, a carnet allows you to avoid the complexities of customs procedures and ensures smooth transit across borders.
What is temporary export?
Temporary export refers to the process of sending goods out of the UK to another country for a limited period, with the intention that the goods will be returned to the UK in the same condition as they were exported. This is common for items such as exhibition stands, professional equipment, or goods used for testing and demonstration purposes abroad. Temporary export often requires specific documentation, like an ATA Carnet, to facilitate the return of the goods without incurring customs duties or taxes in the destination country.
Talk to Us About Temporary Export Arrangements Under ATA Carnet Shipments
We make carnet shipping simple and worry-free, handling the transport of Carnet shipments with the utmost professionalism and efficiency. Our experience with carnet shipping and temporary exports speaks for itself, so find out more by contacting us today.
