What you Need to Know about ATA Carnets for Sporting Events and Motor Vehicles

What Is an ATA Carnet

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An ATA Carnet is an international customs document that allows goods to be temporarily imported and exported without paying import duty or VAT, provided they are re-exported within a fixed period. ATA stands for “Admission Temporaire / Temporary Admission”.

The carnet acts as a single customs document that can be used for multiple border crossings in participating countries. It removes the need to submit separate customs declarations at each entry and exit point and is normally valid for up to one year.

Key points include:

• Covers temporary export, import and re-export of goods

• Accepted by more than 80 countries under the ATA system

• Used for professional equipment, exhibition goods and commercial samples

• Goods must return in the same condition

While ATA Carnets have traditionally been paper-based, digital ATA Carnets, often referred to as eCarnets, are being introduced in some regions in June 2026. During this transition period, most sporting and vehicle movements will continue to rely on paper carnets.

Why ATA Carnets Matter for Sporting Events

Sporting events often require equipment to move across borders within limited timeframes. ATA Carnets simplify customs procedures and reduce the likelihood of disruption during travel.

Items commonly covered include team kits, sports equipment, training gear, medical equipment and technical or display items linked to an event. These movements are usually tied to organised competitions, tours or exhibitions rather than private travel.

Key benefits include:

• No requirement to pay import duties or taxes

• Faster customs processing at borders

• Reduced paperwork for each country visited

• A clear record of temporary movements

By using a single document across multiple destinations, teams and organisers can manage logistics with greater certainty and control.

Using an ATA Carnet for Vehicles and Motorsports

ATA Carnets are widely used for professional vehicle movements, particularly in motorsport, where vehicles may cross borders several times within a short period.

Vehicles that can be included are those used for professional, commercial or event-related purposes. This may include competition vehicles, support vehicles and vehicles intended for display. Personal vehicles used for private travel are not eligible.

Vehicle carnets require detailed information, including make, model and registration details, along with chassis and engine numbers. A declared value must also be included, supported by documentation confirming the intended use of the vehicle.

Accuracy is especially important for vehicle carnets, as customs authorities often carry out physical checks to confirm that details match the inventory. Although digital carnet systems may expand for vehicle movements in future, paper carnets remain the standard in most locations

Planning and Managing ATA Carnets During a Season or Event Schedule

Sporting events and professional vehicle movements often involve multiple border crossings over a defined period. Planning how an ATA Carnet will be used throughout a season, tour or event schedule is an important part of avoiding customs issues.

Before travel begins, routes and destinations should be confirmed to ensure all countries are covered by the ATA system. Any changes to the itinerary should be assessed carefully, as adding non-ATA countries or extending travel beyond the carnet’s validity period may require alternative customs arrangements.

Key procedural considerations include:

• Confirming carnet validity covers the full duration of travel
• Ensuring all planned countries accept ATA Carnets for the intended use
• Briefing drivers, team members or logistics staff on carnet handling
• Allowing time at borders for customs inspections and endorsements

Responsibility for the carnet should be clearly assigned. The carnet must travel with the goods or vehicles at all times and be presented to customs at each crossing. Misplacement or damage to the carnet can result in delays, fines or claims against the security guarantee.

At the conclusion of travel, goods must be re-exported and re-imported correctly before the carnet expires. Final customs endorsements should be checked to confirm all movements have been properly recorded. Retaining copies of endorsed vouchers can assist if any post-travel customs queries arise.

Taking a structured, procedural approach to carnet management helps ensure compliance throughout an event or season and reduces the risk of unexpected costs or disruption.

Application Process

Applying for an ATA Carnet requires careful preparation. All items must be listed on a detailed inventory with clear descriptions, serial numbers where relevant and declared values. Vehicles must be listed individually with full identifying details.

Applicants are also required to provide supporting documentation that confirms the purpose of travel and the temporary nature of the movement. A security guarantee is required and is based on the value of the goods and the countries being visited.

In the UK, ATA Carnets are issued through authorised chambers of commerce. Applications should be submitted well in advance of travel to allow time for review, payment and approval.

Customs Procedures at Borders

ATA Carnets must be presented to customs authorities at every entry and exit point. Each movement must be properly recorded to confirm that goods are entering and leaving countries as intended.

The process includes validation on export, endorsement on import, and confirmation on re-export and re-import. Customs officers record each step using the carnet vouchers. If any endorsements are missed or completed incorrectly, customs authorities may raise queries or make claims against the guarantee.

Allowing sufficient time at borders, checking inventory accuracy and confirming endorsements before leaving customs all help reduce risk.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Common issues include missing items from the inventory, incorrect descriptions, expired carnets and errors in vehicle details. Consumables such as fuel, food or tyres must not be included on a carnet.

Problems often arise when changes are made close to departure. Reviewing inventories carefully and finalising lists early helps reduce last-minute issues and avoids delays during inspections.

ATA Carnets remain essential for sporting events and professional vehicle movements. They reduce administrative burden, support smoother border crossings and provide a clear framework for temporary imports. As digital carnet systems continue to develop, understanding current requirements is still essential.

For guidance, applications and ongoing support, working with our experienced carnet team helps keep sporting and vehicle movements running smoothly.‍