ATA Carnets for the European Union (EU)

The Move to eATA Carnets in the EU from June 2026

From 1 June 2026, ATA Carnets used for travel between the UK, the EU, Norway, and Switzerland will be issued in digital format only. This marks the first phase of the international transition away from paper carnets.

For UK businesses, this means the familiar paper booklet will be replaced by an electronic carnet accessed via a secure digital platform. The underlying rules of temporary admission remain unchanged, but the way carnets are applied for, presented, and endorsed at customs will move online.

During this phase, paper carnets will still apply for destinations outside the early rollout countries.

How eATA Carnets Will Work for EU Travel

Under the digital system, carnet data will be submitted and managed electronically rather than through physical vouchers and stamps.

• Key points include:

  • Carnets accessed via a secure app or online portal

  • Digital presentation to customs at export, import, and re-export

  • Electronic endorsements recorded in real time

  • A live audit trail showing carnet status at each stage of the journey

Exporters will no longer rely on physical stamping, reducing the risk of missed endorsements or lost documents.

Benefits of ATA Carnets for EU Trade

1. Simplified Customs and Cost Savings

Before Brexit, UK goods could move freely within the EU. Now, temporary movements require customs clearance and, without a Carnet, businesses often pay import VAT or duty upfront and reclaim it later.

An ATA Carnet eliminates these steps by providing a pre-approved customs document accepted by all EU states. You can enter and leave the EU multiple times without completing declarations or paying deposits at each border.

2. Faster Border Processing

Customs officers throughout the EU recognise ATA Carnets, which means faster processing through dedicated counters at major airports, ports, and land crossings. With pre-verified information, checks focus only on ensuring eligible goods match the Carnet inventory, reducing delays and paperwork.

3. Flexibility Across Trips and Countries

One Carnet can cover multiple visits to multiple EU countries for up to a year.

For example, a UK company can use the same document for exhibitions in Paris, Milan, and Berlin without reapplying. It’s ideal for touring musicians, engineers, performers, and exhibitors.

4. Reduced Risk and Full Compliance

Backed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Carnets protect against unexpected duties or penalties and provide a complete customs record for HMRC and EU authorities.

5. Suitable for a Range of Goods

ATA Carnets can be used across the EU to temporarily transport goods like:

• Professional equipment (photography, TV, engineering, medical gear)

• Exhibition items (stands, displays, samples, prototypes)

• Commercial samples (for demonstrations or promotions)

Goods for sale, processing, repair, or hire are not eligible.

Benefits of eATA Carnets for UK–EU Trade

The move to digital carnets brings practical advantages for businesses operating in the EU:

• Faster processing at borders due to pre-validated digital data

• Reduced risk of errors linked to missing stamps or damaged paperwork

• Improved visibility of carnet status throughout the journey

• Easier compliance checks through electronic records

For frequent travellers, touring equipment, or multi-country EU trips, eCarnets are expected to make temporary exports more predictable and efficient.

Using Paper ATA Carnets in the EU

All EU states participate in the ATA Carnet system under the Istanbul Convention. This system and process applies to paper carnets, prior to June 2026. From 1 June 2026, EU, Norway, and Switzerland will follow a digital presentation and endorsement process. The wider global rollout of eCarnets is expected from 2028.

How It Works

1. Present the Carnet to UK customs on departure for validation and export recording.

2. On arrival in the first EU country, customs endorse the import section.

3. At each EU border, officers check, stamp, and detach the relevant vouchers.

4. On return to the UK, customs confirm re-importation to close the Carnet.

This ensures duty-free, VAT-free movement with a full paper trail under the paper carnet system.

Entry and Exit Points

Most major EU ports, airports, and crossings process Carnets. Our team can confirm this for your specific situation in advance of your journey.

Examples include:

• France: Calais, Paris CDG, Marseille

• Germany: Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich

• Netherlands: Rotterdam, Amsterdam Schiphol

• Spain: Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao

These locations currently process paper ATA Carnets and will transition to digital processing in line with the June 2026 rollout.

Duration

A UK-issued Carnet is valid for 12 months. Goods must be re-exported within this period.

Opportunities for UK Businesses

The EU remains the UK’s largest trading partner, representing about half of total trade by value. Despite added formalities, there are still many opportunities for UK businesses, including manufacturers, creative industries, and service providers.

ATA Carnets simplify and support EU operations for UK businesses involved in:

• Trade fairs and exhibitions

• Film, TV, and media productions

• Construction and engineering projects

• Scientific and academic collaborations

For example, a British fashion brand attending Paris Fashion Week or a horse rider competing in Italy can move their horse and equipment duty- and VAT-free using a single Carnet.

Preparing for the EU eCarnet Rollout

Businesses that regularly use ATA Carnets in the EU should prepare ahead of June 2026 by:

• Reviewing which EU routes and events rely on carnets

• Ensuring staff have access to suitable digital devices

• Understanding how digital presentation works at borders

• Keeping a paper copy as a mandatory backup during early rollout phases

Our team can help confirm whether your planned travel falls under the digital system and guide you through the transition.

Applying for an ATA Carnet

Step-by-Step Process

1. Identify your issuing body – Contact our team to discuss any queries you might have, or apply online for an accurate quote and to start the process.

2. Prepare documentation – Application form, full inventory (with serial numbers, weights, and values), and proof of ownership or authorisation.

3. Determine security guarantee – Usually 40% of total goods value, provided via deposit, bank guarantee, or Chamber scheme.

4. Pay fees – Typically £300–£450 per Carnet plus security costs.

5. Submit application – Processing takes 24–48 hours; same-day service may be available.

6. Use correctly – Ensure all customs stamps and signatures are completed at each stage.

Tips for Efficiency

• Apply early, especially before major events or holidays.

• Check inventory details carefully.

• Confirm with our team that all planned border crossings accept Carnets.

• Carry supporting documents such as contracts or event invites.

• Keep all physical copies.

• Return goods before expiry to avoid charges.

EU Carnet FAQs

Do I need an ATA Carnet for the EU?

Yes. Post-Brexit, temporary goods movement into the EU requires a Carnet or an alternative declaration to avoid duties or VAT.

Can I use one Carnet for multiple EU countries?

Yes, provided goods are re-exported within the validity period.

Are all EU countries covered?

Yes, all 27 member states accept Carnets. Switzerland, Norway, and Turkey also recognise them.

How long is a Carnet valid?

Up to 12 months from issue, allowing multiple trips.

What if customs forget to stamp my Carnet?

If re-export can’t be verified, you may be liable for VAT or duties. Always ensure stamps are in place. This applies to paper carnets; digital endorsements will be recorded electronically.

Who issues Carnets in the UK?

Authorised Chambers of Commerce under the LCCI.

Can I use a digital Carnet?

Yes. eCarnets are being rolled out across the UK and EU, allowing faster, paper-free processing.

Future Outlook

As UK–EU trade procedures become digital focused, eCarnets will simplify the process further, reducing paperwork, improving compliance, and making the system more accessible for smaller businesses. Rollout of the digital carnet process is planned for 1st June 2026. If you’re unsure of any aspect, our team are familiar with these new processes and happy to share their knowledge and expertise.

For UK exporters, ATA Carnets continue to offer:

• Access to major European events and markets

• Simpler short-term project logistics

• Reduced administration

• Predictable, duty-free movement

Get in touch with our team for expert help in arranging your ATA Carnet for the EU.