What significance do free trade and preferential agreements have for customs clearance?
When are goods shipments duty-free?
In certain cases, no or reduced customs duties may be payable on import:
Typical exceptions:
- Within the EU: Free movement of goods → no customs duties
- Free trade agreement: Duty concessions depending on country of origin
- Low-value shipments: Often duty-free under certain value limits
- Special cases: e.g. samples, gifts or personal shipments
Important: The exact regulations may change at short notice, e.g. due to new legal requirements or trade agreements. Find out more here.
It is therefore always worth taking a look at the current regulations before shipping.