Procurement Glossary
Carnet (ATA): Customs procedure for temporary import of goods in international trade
November 19, 2025
The ATA Carnet (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) is an international customs document that allows the temporary duty-free import of goods into over 70 countries. For companies in the procurement sector, it is particularly relevant for trade fair participations, product demonstrations or temporary equipment deliveries. Find out below what an ATA carnet is, which methods are used and how you can minimize risks.
Key Facts
- Period of validity: One year from date of issue for multiple entries and exits
- Area of application: Over 70 countries worldwide, including the EU, USA, Japan and Australia
- Types of goods: samples, professional equipment, exhibition goods and goods for demonstrations
- Cost savings: no customs deposits or complex security deposits required
- Issuing body: In Germany the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK)
Contents
Definition: Carnet (ATA)
The ATA Carnet simplifies cross-border business activities through standardized customs procedures and significantly reduces administrative hurdles.
Basic mode of operation
An ATA carnet acts as an international customs passport that enables the temporary import of goods without paying customs duties and taxes. The document is based on international conventions and is issued by chambers of commerce. The goods must be re-exported in the same condition in which they were imported.
ATA Carnet vs. other customs procedures
In contrast to regular customs clearance, the ATA carnet eliminates the need for complex security deposits. While extensive documentation is required for export processing, the ATA carnet simplifies the process by providing a single document for all participating countries.
Importance in Procurement
For procurement managers, the ATA Carnet enables cost-efficient supplier evaluations abroad, on-site product tests and participation in international trade fairs. It reduces liquidity commitment and significantly accelerates cross-border business processes.
Methods and procedures
The successful use of an ATA Carnet requires systematic planning and precise documentation of all goods movements.
Application procedure and preparation
The application must be submitted to the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce at least one week before the start of the trip. Detailed lists of goods with descriptions, values and serial numbers are required. The fees are based on the value of the goods and typically amount to 0.5-1% of the total value plus processing fees.
Border clearance and controls
When entering the country, you present the ATA Carnet together with the packing list to customs. The officials will stamp the relevant sections and check the goods. It is important that the documentation and the physical goods match completely.
Re-export and closure
The goods must be re-exported within the period of validity. Final stamping by customs takes place on departure. Incomplete or delayed re-exports can lead to back payments of customs duties and taxes.
Tacto Intelligence
Combines deep procurement knowledge with the most powerful AI agents for strong Procurement.
Key figures for controlling
Systematic performance measurement optimizes the efficiency of Carnet ATA procedures and identifies potential for improvement.
Cost efficiency and time savings
The cost savings compared to regular customs procedures are typically 60-80% of the security deposits that would otherwise be incurred. The average processing time at borders is reduced by 40-60% compared to standard procedures. The return on investment is usually 300-500% with regular use.
Process quality and compliance
The success rate for border clearances should be over 95%, measured in terms of problem-free processing. Re-claim rate by customs authorities below 2% indicates high documentation quality. The reuse rate of ATA carnets in follow-up transactions indicates process optimization.
Strategic performance indicators
Market development speed through simplified customs procedures can be measured in reduced time-to-market cycles. The number of markets opened up per year shows the effectiveness of the instrument. Supplier relationships improve measurably due to reduced administrative hurdles in international business.
Risk factors and controls for Carnet (ATA)
Incorrect application or incomplete documentation can lead to considerable financial burdens and delays.
Documentation and compliance risks
Incomplete or incorrect descriptions of goods lead to additional customs charges. Exceeding the validity period results in automatic customs and tax obligations. Correct customs classification is crucial for acceptance by customs authorities.
Operational risks during settlement
Loss or damage to the ATA Carnet during the journey can lead to costly replacement procedures. Insufficient coordination between different customs offices delays border clearances. Currency fluctuations affect the security deposits made with the issuing Chamber of Commerce.
Strategic risk minimization
Regular employee training on current customs regulations reduces application errors. Digital copies of all documents and photos of the goods serve as a backup in the event of loss. Cooperation with experienced customs brokers minimizes compliance risks in complex markets.
.avif)
Practical example
A German mechanical engineering company uses an ATA carnet to participate in a trade fair in Singapore. The demonstration machine worth 150,000 euros is imported temporarily. This saves the company 22,500 euros in customs security services and reduces the border clearance time from four hours to 30 minutes. After the trade fair, the machine will be exported again without any problems.
- Application to the IHK three weeks before the start of the trade fair
- Detailed documentation of all machine components with serial numbers
- Coordination with trade fair organizer for smooth logistics
- Tracking of all customs stamps for proper closure
Current developments and effects
The digitalization of customs procedures and new trade agreements are fundamentally changing the use of ATA carnet procedures.
Digital transformation in customs
Electronic carnet systems (e-Carnet) are gradually being introduced and enable paperless processing. AI-supported risk analyses speed up border controls and reduce waiting times. Blockchain technology improves the traceability and forgery protection of documents.
Brexit and trade agreements
Brexit has increased the importance of ATA carnets for trade with the UK. New bilateral trade agreements are creating alternative procedures, some of which are replacing the ATA carnet. Preferences of origin influence the cost-effectiveness of various customs procedures.
Sustainability and compliance
Increased controls on dual-use goods require more precise descriptions of goods. Environmental requirements and sustainability certificates are increasingly being integrated into the Carnet documentation. Automated systems are making export controls more efficient.
Conclusion
The ATA Carnet is an indispensable tool for companies with international business activities, enabling considerable cost savings and process simplifications. Its correct application requires careful planning and precise documentation, but offers clear competitive advantages in cross-border activities. As digitalization progresses, the process will become even more efficient and user-friendly.
FAQ
What does an ATA Carnet cost and how is it applied for?
The costs amount to 0.5-1% of the value of the goods plus processing fees of around 100-200 euros. The application is submitted to the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce with a detailed list of goods, intended use and itinerary. The processing time is at least one week.
Which goods can be imported with an ATA Carnet?
Samples, professional equipment, exhibition goods and demonstration goods are permitted. Excluded are consumer goods, goods intended for processing and goods for sale. The goods must be re-exported in unchanged condition.
What happens if the ATA Carnet is lost or damaged?
In the event of loss, the issuing Chamber of Industry and Commerce must be informed immediately, which will issue a replacement document. Additional fees of 200-500 euros will be charged. In the event of damage, customs authorities may accept alternative proof, but delays and possible additional costs will occur.
How long is an ATA Carnet valid and can it be extended?
The period of validity is one year from the date of issue. An extension is not possible, but a new ATA Carnet can be requested for the same goods. All goods must be re-exported before the expiry date.
.png)
.png)
.png)
