Requirements For ATA Carnets to The European Union
An ATA Carnet allows for the temporary importation of goods into European Union countries without paying customs duties or VAT, as long as the goods are returned to the UK (or origin country) in the same condition.
This is ideal for:
Trade shows and exhibitions
Live performances and professional events
Commercial samples and equipment demos
All EU member states that participate in the ATA Carnet system follow similar guidelines.
Your goods must:
Be non-consumable
Be re-exported within the carnet’s validity period
Not be altered, sold, or left behind
✅ Always carry your carnet and ensure customs stamps it upon entry and exit of the EU.
Which Countries Is An EU Carnet Valid For?
Because the EU operates as a single customs territory, an ATA Carnet for the EU will cover you across all 27 member states. But you still need to show it to customs officials when entering and leaving the EU.
✅ ATA Carnet Validity:
Up to 12 months Multiple entries within this time frame
Stuck at the border without the right documentation? We can help - get in touch now for a last-minute carnet.
Which Goods Are Accepted For An ATA Carnet UK To EU?
Goods for an ATA Carnet from the UK to the EU can include:
✅ Accepted Goods:
Commercial Samples
Exhibition and Trade Fair Items
Professional Equipment
✅ As long as your goods are not consumable and are being returned in the same condition, they should fall into one of these categories.
❌ Not Accepted Under EU ATA Carnet:
Consumables (brochures, freebies, drinks)
Disposable or one-time use items
Goods for sale
Goods to be processed, repaired, or altered
Perishable goods (food, flowers)
⚠️ In this case, you may have to use other customs procedures such as Inward Processing or Temporary Admission without Carnet.
Can You Travel To The EU Without A Carnet?
Are you travelling from the UK to the EU with professional equipment, commercial samples, or goods for use in your business? Then you’ll need a valid ATA Carnet to import your goods without paying any import duties.
You must have your carnet stamped by customs officials on entry and exit to the EU. Without the ATA carnet, you could be hit with:
🚫 Import duties
🚫 VAT
🚫 Fines and penalties
🚫 Detention or confiscation of your goods
🚫 Event or exhibition delays, business delays
🛑 Lost or Stolen Carnet?
If your carnet or the goods listed on it are lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must notify:
The UK issuing association & the customs authority of the country you’re currently in
The sooner you report it, the better it is for your carnet guarantee and legal status.
⚠️ Customs delays can cause shows to be cancelled, missed opportunities, and reputational damage.
What Documents Do I Need To Apply For An ATA Carnet for The EU
When applying for an ATA Carnet to temporarily import goods into the EU, you’ll need to submit a comprehensive set of documents. They will be checked by both UK and EU customs to make sure everything’s in order.
So, what do you need to submit?
📝 1. List of Goods
This is a detailed, item-by-item list. For each product, provide the following information:
Description (e.g. “Digital Camera”)
Make and Model
Serial Number (if applicable)
Weight (in kg)
Value (in GBP)
Country of Origin (the place where the item was manufactured)
✅ This list will be checked by customs on entry and re-export — it’s important to get this right.
🎯 2. Use of Goods
Indicate the intended use for the goods. Examples include:
Participation at a trade show
Use of equipment for filming or media
Demonstration or client trial
👤 3. Traveller or Company Details
Details of the traveller or company, including:
Name and contact details
Copy of a valid passport or official ID
✈️ 4. Travel Plans
Your planned itinerary.
You’ll need to provide:
Dates of travel
Country to be visited
Port or airport of entry and exit (e.g. Heathrow to Brussels)
🔎 Need help with your ATA Carnet documents for the EU?
Carnet Wizard can walk you through every step — from creating the list to submitting your application.
Frequently Asked Questions about Carnet Wizard: Find Answers to the Most Common Queries
Support
Our friendly team is here to help.
Ask us anything
Phone
Mon-Fri from 9am to 5pm.
Sat-Sun Appointment Only
