What is Carnet ATA (Carnet ATA): Benefits

Carnet ATA (Admission Temporaire) is an international customs document that allows for the temporary import and temporary export of goods without paying duties and taxes, provided that they are re-exported within a year. In some cases, the period of use can be extended up to two years. Carnet ATA simplifies customs clearance and is used for international trade, exhibitions, business trips and cultural exchanges.
Benefits of temporary importation under Carnet ATA
- No duties and taxes - Carnet ATA allows you to avoid the financial costs associated with pledges and guarantees.
- One customs declaration - instead of submitting separate documents in each country, one international document is issued.
- Fast customs clearance - temporary import and export of goods is simplified thanks to a single verification and confirmation mechanism.
- Recognition in more than 75 countries - the document is valid in most countries of the world, which makes it easy to organise international transport.
Carnet ATA is issued through national chambers of commerce and industry, which guarantee compliance with the terms of its use. To obtain the document, you must provide a detailed description of the goods, the purpose of their temporary importation and the obligation to re-export them within the established timeframe.
For what purposes can Carnet ATA be used?
The ATA Carnet can be used for several purposes, most notably for the temporary importation of goods without paying import duties and taxes. These goals include:
- Exhibiting goods at fairs, exhibitions and other events.
- Transporting professional equipment for use in presentations, performances or work projects.
- Delivery of commercial samples for display to potential clients or partners abroad.
This flexibility makes Carnet ATA a valuable tool for businesses and professionals involved in international activities.
What are the main benefits of using Carnet ATA?
The main benefits of using Carnet ATA include:
- Simplification of customs procedures, allowing temporary import and export of goods without the need to pay duties and taxes.
- Significant cost savings because there is no need to pay customs duties and taxes that would be required for temporary imports.
- Optimization of the international logistics process, simplifying and speeding up the movement of goods across borders for temporary purposes.
These benefits make Carnet ATA an important tool for businesses involved in international trade, exhibitions and performances.
What products are eligible for Carnet ATA?
- equipment for repair, installation and testing.
- containers.
- reusable packaging.
- video, photo, radio devices.
- theatrical props.
- exhibition samples and exhibits.
Goods can be imported into the country for a period of no more than one year (in rare cases, the period can be extended to two years). After this time, all imported goods must be returned in the same condition in which they arrived. In addition, cargo can only be temporarily located in ten countries.
How to obtain and use Carnet ATA?
To obtain and use Carnet ATA, you must complete the following steps:
- Determine Eligibility: Make sure your products and their intended use meet the requirements of the Carnet ATA system.
- Apply through your national guarantee association: Each country has an organization authorized to issue ATA carnets, usually associated with the national chamber of commerce.
- Provide the necessary documentation: this includes a detailed list of goods, their cost and the countries you plan to visit.
- Pay applicable fees: Fees include the cost of the book itself and a security deposit, which may vary depending on the cost of goods and countries visited.
Once you have received your ATA Carnet, you must present it to customs officials when entering and exiting each country, ensuring that all goods are accounted for and that the Carnet is properly stamped.
What are the consequences of refusing to re-export goods listed in the ATA Carnet?
Failure to re-export goods listed in the ATA Carnet within the specified time period may result in serious consequences, including:
- Confiscation of any deposit paid upon receipt of the book.
- Imposing full duties and taxes, potentially with additional penalties and interest.
- Legal claims by customs authorities for the collection of debts on duties and taxes.
It is critical for Carnet ATA holders to comply with all conditions, including timely re-export of goods, to avoid these penalties and maintain the benefits of the Carnet system.