ATA Carnets
What is an ATA Carnet?
Often referred to as a “passport for goods”, an ATA Carnet is an International Customs document. It allows goods to temporarily move between co-operating countries without the need in some cases for a full Customs declaration (at import and re-export) and removes the need to pay Duty/VAT.
Why use a Carnet?
An ATA Carnet can simplify crossing borders and reduce costs.
What goods does an ATA Carnet cover?
Commercial samples, goods for exhibition and demonstration, touring musicians/sports persons instruments/equipment and goods carried by engineers for project/service/repair of items overseas.
Can I include consumables on my ATA Carnet?
No, an ATA Carnet only covers goods that you will return to the UK. You cannot include promotional material, giveaways, or similar items on a Carnet.
Can I use an ATA Carnet for multiple countries?
Yes, ensure you obtain the appropriate number of ‘sets of vouchers’ for all planned border crossings.
Can I use an ATA Carnet for multiple trips?
Yes, as above, ensure you obtain the appropriate number of ‘sets of vouchers’ for each planned journey.
How long is an ATA Carnet valid?
ATA Carnets generally remain valid for twelve months (time restrictions may apply and vary between countries), although countries usually limit goods sent abroad for exhibition purposes to six months.
Can I extend my ATA Carnet?
Once authorities issue a Carnet, you cannot change its period of validity.
If you need to use your goods for longer, you will need a replacement carnet. Occasionally, foreign Customs authority will allow a replacement carnet to be issued. This will allow goods to remain in a foreign country for a further period of time after the original carnet has expired.
If you want your items to remain in a foreign country after your Carnet expires, contact the host Customs at least one month before the Carnet’s expiry and ask whether they will approve a replacement. Make sure you get their confirmation in writing.
Can I authorize another party to apply for my ATA Carnet?
Yes, you can appoint a third party to apply for a Carnet on your behalf, you must authorise them in writing (on your company letterhead).
What happens if you lose the goods or they are stolen before you return them to the UK?
Firstly, report loss/theft to local Police and advise the Customs authorities in the country where the goods are located. Inform the party who issued the Carnet.
Which countries allow use of an ATA Carnet?
The link below provides a good source of information, and HMRC updates it regularly. Individual countries place restrictions on Carnets, and some make the process more complicated.
Please contact MGC for further information depending on the specific country of origin that you are planning to export to.
Countries that accept ATA Carnets – GOV.UK
Are ATA Carnets a worthwhile exercise?
Yes and no – ATA Carnets are quite laborious and time-consuming in terms of administration and utilization at the borders. There could be significant benefits in terms of duty minimization and avoidance of taxes. A discussion with MGC should help alleviate any concerns you may have.
What about when goods are going abroad to be displayed in exhibitions for example?
When transporting goods abroad for exhibition purposes, ATA Carnets provide the best way to move goods in and out while minimizing duty implications and associated costs.
Are ATA Carnets an expensive option?
This depends on the type of goods, the number of items required, the deposits required, and the mechanisms used to manage the process.
Can MGC help minimize the cost burden on an exporter using an ATA carnet?
MGC has the structures in place to raise and issue the carnets whilst also considering any security deposit that needs to be lodged. Please contact us directly for further information on the above. We will do our best to explain the parameters whilst also providing the best-fit and most cost-effective solutions.
What information do I need to create an ATA Carnet?
1. Details of the Carnet holder (this company is responsible for any payments if the Carnet is misused).
2. Details of all countries to be visited, the number of Borders to be crossed and the anticipated number of trips to be taken during the period of validity.
3. Information regarding the person(s) who will be travelling with the goods.
4. What the intended use of the goods is.
5. List the goods you are taking. Individually describe each item (e.g., make and serial number) and include its weight and value.
6. Letter granting authority to the third party completing the Carnet on your behalf.