What is an ATA Carnet and Why Does Your Film & TV Business Need One?
An ATA Carnet is an international customs document that allows for the temporary, duty- and tax-free import of various goods into foreign countries for up to one year.
Film & TV productions often rely on moving high-value, specialised equipment like cameras, drones, and lighting rigs quickly and often across multiple international borders. A Carnet eliminates the need to pay import taxes and duties for your items (or post a security bond) in each country, preventing production delays and protecting your budget.
Allowed ATA Carnet Goods
Commercial Samples
Professional Equipment (e.g. cameras, sound gear, editing suites)
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
Check our list of acceptable ATA carnet goods for a more detailed breakdown.
Where Can I Use A TV & Film Equipment ATA Carnet?
Currently, 87 countries have signed up to the ATA Carnet scheme. This includes most European Union countries as well as overseas destinations. We can help you prepare fully compliant documentation for all destinations, including:
Check the full list of ATA countries to ensure you stay compliant.
How Long Does It Take To Get An ATA Carnet For Film & TV?
When it comes to international trade, time is of the essence. A standard carnet can be delivered in as little as 24 hours, but same-day delivery is also possible. The price for quick carnet delivery will differ depending on the time of application and the delivery location.
Frequently Asked Questions about Carnet Wizard: Find Answers to the Most Common Queries
What is an ATA carnet?
A carnet, also known as an ATA Carnet, a passport for goods, an Admission Temporaire or a Temporary Admission, is an international customs document. It allows the tax-free and duty-free temporary export of various goods, facilitating trade and cross-border business.
Who can use an ATA Carnet?
ATA Carnets can be utilised by businesses and individuals who need to temporarily export goods. This can mean any goods meant for exhibitions, trade shows, professional equipment, and work projects.
What makes Carnet Wizard different?
At Carnet Wizard, we offer a versatile service. We can issue your carnet swiftly with 0 errors, so you don’t need to worry about any unnecessary fines. If you need support with the delivery itself or need customs advice, we can help with that as well.
If you are stuck at customs abroad, our 24/7 support ensures we are always here to give you a hand. We can also train your staff to handle customs procedures with confidence, directing them to the right customs authorities if needed.
What documents do I need to apply for an ATA carnet?
To get started, you’ll need to send all the required documentation so we can complete your carnet as quickly as possible. Find our application checklist here.
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