Requirements for ATA Carnets to France
The ATA Carnet acts as a temporary passport for your goods. As France is a signatory to the ATA Convention, it accepts carnets for different categories of temporary imports, provided all items are returned to the UK in the same condition as they left.
ATA Carnet Allowable Uses in France:
Commercial Samples
Trade Fairs & Exhibitions
Professional Equipment (tools, film gear, etc.)
Carnets are valid for up to 12 months and can cover multiple entries and exits during this period.
ℹ️ If your carnet is approaching its expiry before your return to the UK, you may request a replacement carnet to extend its validity. This must be done at least 30 days before the carnet expiry date & is subject to approval by French Customs.
Can I Travel to France Without an ATA Carnet?
If you are visiting France and transporting professional equipment, commercial samples, or exhibition-related goods, you will need to obtain an ATA Carnet before your trip. An ATA Carnet serves as both a customs declaration and a guarantee that the goods will be re-exported upon completion of your visit.
Upon entry into and exit from France, your carnet will be stamped by the customs officials. If you try to enter the country without the appropriate customs documentation, you could be subject to: Import duties and VAT, Fines and penalties, Seizure of your goods, Delays to your schedule or event.
Aside from the financial risks, failure to comply with French customs regulations could severely damage your reputation, particularly if you are a professional travelling to an international event or exhibition.
🛑 If your ATA Carnet or goods are lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must inform both:
The issuing association in the UK, the French customs authorities.
Early intervention will prevent problems with your carnet guarantee and possible legal complications with French customs.
⚠️ To summarise: If you are transporting professional goods into France, don’t take the risk – travel with a valid ATA Carnet.
What Documents Do I Need To Apply For An ATA Carnet for France
Before applying for an ATA Carnet for France, it’s important to have all the right documents to hand to ensure your application doesn’t get held up or rejected.
Here’s what you need to put together:
🔍 1. Detailed List of Goods
You’ll need to give a comprehensive list of all goods you’re temporarily exporting to France.
For each item:
Description of the goods (e.g. “LED panel light”)
Make and Model
Serial Number (if applicable)
Weight (in kg)
Value (in GBP)
Country of Origin (where manufactured)
👀 You’ll need to be precise here — this will be used by UK and French customs to check what’s coming in and going out of the customs territories.
📄 2. Purpose of Export
The purpose of the export should be stated — e.g. to attend an exhibition, for filming, for client demonstration, for a concert tour, etc.
This will ensure you’re eligible to use an ATA Carnet.
📄 3. Traveller or Company Details
You’ll need to provide full details of who is carrying the goods — whether it's individuals or a company. You’ll need:
Full name and company
Contact details
Copy of a valid passport or ID card
📄 4. Travel Itinerary
You’ll need a clear itinerary to prove the carnet is valid and that you’re travelling through the right countries. This should include:
Country of departure and destination
Dates of travel
Ports or airports of entry and exit (e.g. Heathrow to Charles de Gaulle)
Get expert help putting this together? CTA
Carnet Wizard’s team can do all the legwork for you to compile all the paperwork for your ATA Carnet to France, efficiently and accurately.
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