If you move goods temporarily, for example – sending a product to a potential customer to evaluate, having a salesperson demonstrate goods or taking goods to an exhibition, you need to be aware of the new changes that affect you and the temporary export and import procedures available to make the process easier and more cost effective to your business. 

One of these options is an ATA Carnet, the simplest duty and tax-free method of exporting goods on a temporary basis.

ATA Carnets were not previously needed for UK businesses travelling in and around the EU, and many businesses are now struggling with the processes required to do this. 

Businesses need to look into the ATA Carnet option when transporting certain goods temporarily into any EU country or transferring them through the EU to the rest of the world. Goods moving between the UK and any EU country will be subject to export and import clearance procedures. If the goods do not meet rules of origin, duty payments may be payable.

ATA Carnets across the EU can be used for:

• Trade fairs and exhibitions.
• Commercial samples 

This covers almost any non-perishable items including 

• Cultural items such as museum pieces or artwork
• Media & audio equipment for musicians, concerts and filming companies
• Sports equipment for competitive events such as regatta’s, motor racing or cycling

Particular advantages of using an ATA Carnet for temporary exports to the EU is being able to use the Carnet several times in the same 12 month validity period and, as all EU countries are members of the scheme, the same ATA carnet can be used Europe wide. Meaning, once validated by customs at your point of entry, your carnet acts as a 27 nation transit document. No further clearance is required to travel to other EU member states and you can leave the European Union through whichever EU state you choose.

Perishable or consumable goods and items which will be altered/processed, such as for repair and shipments may benefit from alternative temporary import and export procedures to enable  zero, or refunded duties.

To help you with this process, we run an ATA Carnet service and have an experienced team who are on hand to assist and advise you. We can process your ATA Carnets via our online eCert platform quickly and easily.


We also run a virtual ATA Carnet Workshop to help you understand the processes involved and whether the ATA Carnet is the best option for you. Our next workshop is on December 4th and you can find out more HERE.

If other temporary procedures are better suited for your goods, our training courses and expert advisor can help you successfully navigate this sometimes complex subject.

To find out more contact us.