An ATA Carnet (pronounced car-nay), often called a "passport for goods," is an international customs document that simplifies the temporary export and import of certain items, without having to pay duties or taxes.
Without this essential document, you could miss your connection, incur additional fees, and lose lots of time and money - here’s all you need to know about ATA carnets, how to apply, & how to use yours:
What Do You Need An ATA Carnet For?
Using a carnet saves you from the complex and often expensive process of paying import duties and taxes, streamlining the entire process & making international travel with goods much more efficient. This is especially useful for business travellers, musicians, and even artists who transport their equipment or commercial goods temporarily (e.g. an exhibition).
Here is a quick breakdown of which goods are acceptable for ATA carnets:
Allowed ATA Carnet Goods
Commercial Samples
Professional Equipment
Goods for Trade Fairs and Exhibitions
Tools
Machinery
Non-Allowed ATA Carnet Goods
Auction goods
Consumable items
Goods to be processed or repaired
Alcoholic beverages
Tobacco goods
Agricultural products
Postal traffic
Containers, pallets and packaging
Items must meet the criteria for temporary export and comply with the regulations of the destination country. Unsure if you need a carnet? Get in touch.
Types Of Carnets
There are two types of carnets you should know of: ATA and TECRO/AIT/CPD.
TECRO/AIT/CPD carnets are used for temporary imports in Taiwan, which only accepts the TECRO/AIT/CPD carnet.
ATA Carnets are used for the 90+ other countries and territories that are members of the carnet system.
How Long Is A Carnet Valid For?
An ATA carnet is typically valid for up to 1 year from its issue date, or only 6 months when transporting goods for Exhibitions and Fairs. While this applies to most carnet countries, some countries have their own rules regarding carnet validity - the only exceptions are as follows:
South Korea (valid for 6 months)
Malaysia (valid for 3 months)
Mexico (valid for 6 months)
Singapore (valid for 6 months)
Can A Carnet Be Extended?
While a Carnet itself cannot be "extended" in the traditional sense, in some instances, foreign customs may allow the issue of a replacement Carnet to extend the time your goods are allowed to remain in that country. You will need written approval from the customs authority of the country where your goods are located, and you should make sure to contact them well in advance.
Please note that not all countries accept replacement carnets. This is at the discretion of the foreign customs authority.
How Do I Apply For An ATA Carnet?
The paperwork process for securing a carnet is complex and can result in careless mistakes if done by a non-professional. If you require assistance in the application process, contact Carnet Wizard and we’ll help you get started.
Once you gather all the required documentation and pay the security deposit required, your application will be processed, and you can receive your carnet in the next 24 hours.
What Documents Do I Need To Apply For An ATA Carnet
To get an ATA Carnet, you’ll need to provide the following documentation:
1. Itemised List of Goods
You’ll need to submit a detailed list of goods which contains details such as:
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 reference check this list at entry and re-export points.
2. Purpose of Use
You’ll need to specify the purpose of the goods you’re transporting. This can be for a:
Trade fair exhibition
Film or media production
Product demo or temporary project
3. Personal Information
You’ll need to provide:
Full name & the name of your 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 departure.
How Long Does It Take To Get An ATA Carnet?
An ATA carnet can typically be issued and delivered within 24 hours if your application is completed and approved before 16:00. However, if you're looking for even faster turnaround times, at Carnet Wizard we have experience delivering carnets within time frames as tight as three hours.
Fast Turnaround When You Need It Most With Carnet Wizard
The paperwork needed for a carnet can be overwhelming and complex, which is where carnet specialists come in. At Carnet Wizard, we pride ourselves on rapid services, where we dispatch a carnet within as little as a few hours.
From renewals and extensions to last-minute requests, talk to our professionals about your needs, and we’ll get right to it.
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