Requirements For ATA Carnets to The European Union
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.
Which Countries Is An EU Carnet Valid For?
With the European Union operating as a single customs territory, an EU ATA carnet will give border-free access across all 27 countries. You still need to present your carnet both when entering the EU and when exiting the EU (through the same country you’ve entered).
Which Goods Are Accepted For An ATA Carnet UK To EU?
EU ATA carnets accept all main categories of goods:
Commercial Samples
Exhibitions and Fairs (limited to 6 months)
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.
EU 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.
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?
If you are travelling to the EU and bringing professional or commercial equipment with you, then you will need a valid ATA carnet from the UK 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 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.
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 for The EU
To get an ATA Carnet, you’ll need to provide all the necessary and accurate documents. UK and EU 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)
This list will be checked by customs officers at entry and re-export points.
2. Purpose of Use
You’ll need to specify why the goods are being taken to the EU. 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
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
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