Carrying samples to a trade fair or business meeting in the EU? Have your ATA Carnet ready for inspection or be prepared to pay the fine.

Since the UK left the EU, the Single Market and the Customs Union, UKFT has been warning UK exporters that they need an ATA Carnet to carry samples or  “examples” to avoid paying customs duty and EU VAT into the EU and UK customs duty and UK VAT when the goods return. These are the same rules which apply to taking samples to most other markets including the US but the same apply for UK samples travelling to and from the EU.

Companies shipping or flying with samples to the EU have been required to show their Carnet on arrival at EU airports or when they come back to the UK. Until recently, however, the same rules had not been regularly applied to travellers between St Pancras International and Paris Gare du Nord.

This has now changed!

UK companies travelling with commercial samples (or “examples”) to the EU via Paris or Brussels are now required to have an ATA  Carnet or declare these when they are leaving for the EU (as they are required to do by air) and customs officers in France and the UK are making random checks on travellers in both directions. Customs officers are empowered to levy fines or seize goods. They operate at the point of departure and arrival and they may also be present now on trains.

Support and discounts on ATA Carnets for UKFT members

UKFT members can contact compliance@ukft.org for UKFT’s ATA Carnet briefings and a link to UKFT’s discounted members’ ATA Carnet service from Birmingham Chamber of Commerce.

UK business travellers should also be aware that new immigration rules are coming into effect in the EU from early-October, ahead of the roll-out of the ETIAS scheme expected next year. Passengers will be required to register their fingerprints and a photo on arrival the first time they enter the EU. No advance action is required, but companies should allow extra time for connections and transfers, and ensure they carry the correct travel documents along with their ATA Carnet if travelling with samples.

UKFT International Business

UK fashion and textiles have a global reputation for quality, creativity and innovation. Through our international trade campaigns, we showcase and promote the UK fashion and textile industry at events around the world.  
 
Our tailored international business support helps UK companies to navigate changing markets, understand complex global trading arrangements and comply with international regulations. Find out more here.

Not yet a member? Find out more about UKFT membership here.