Rules For ATA Carnets In China
ATA carnets allow you to temporarily import equipment or goods for events (including live performances) into all countries part of the ATA Carnet system. All items you import must be returned to the country of origin in the same condition as they were brought in.
ATA carnets to China are valid for 6 months.
Which Goods Are Accepted For An ATA Carnet In China?
China ATA carnets accept all main categories of goods:
Commercial Samples
Exhibitions and Fairs
Professional Equipment
Educational and cultural items
Almost any item transported across borders for a temporary stay and returned to the UK in the same state will fit a carnet category.
China carnets will NOT accept the following:
Consumable goods (items intended to be used up or given away, like brochures, advertising materials, or refreshments)
Disposable items
Goods intended for sale
Goods for processing, repair, or modification (these typically fall under different customs procedures like Inward Processing)
Perishable goods.
Can You Travel To China Without A Carnet?
If you are travelling to China and bringing professional or commercial equipment with you, then you will need a valid ATA carnet. Some extra key considerations are:
Your carnet must be stamped by the appropriate customs officials upon entry and exit of the country.
If you are caught without a carnet when you should have one, you may be required to pay import duties or taxes for the goods you are transporting.
Failure to comply with customs requirements can result in fines and, in some cases, in the confiscation of your items.
If your goods or Carnet are lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must report it immediately to the issuing association and the customs authorities in the country you are in.
If you are taking carnet items as hand luggage, you will need to attend the nearest CCPIT/CCOIC office within three working days.
Delays and item confiscations can turn into delays of your event or exhibition, and even result in a damaged reputation as a professional.
What Documents Do I Need To Apply For An ATA Carnet To China
To get an ATA Carnet, you’ll need to provide all the necessary and accurate documents. UK and Chinese Customs will check that your goods are eligible for duty-free import. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Itemised List of Goods
You’ll need to submit a detailed list of goods. For each item, you’ll need to provide:
Description (e.g., “LED Light Panel”)
Make and Model
Serial Number (if applicable)
Weight (in kg)
Value (in GBP)
Country of Origin (where it was manufactured)
Customs officers will check this list at entry and re-export points.
2. Purpose of Use
You’ll need to specify why the goods are being taken to China. For example:
Trade fair exhibition
Film or media production
Product demo or temporary project
3. Traveller or Company Information
You’ll need to provide:
Full name and company (if applicable)
Contact details
Valid passport or photo ID
4. Travel Itinerary
You’ll need to provide your full travel details:
Travel dates
Country of departure and destination
Entry and exit ports or airports
From collecting paperwork to submitting your final application, Carnet Wizard can help you get your ATA carnet in time for your China departure.
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