Temporary Import/Export & ATA Carnet: A Business Guide

# Temporary Import/Export and ATA Carnet: A Guide for Businesses

In international trade, situations often arise where goods need to cross borders for a limited time only, without being intended for sale or consumption in the destination country. In such cases, temporary import and export customs procedures come into play, significantly simplifying and accelerating the flow of goods while avoiding the payment of customs duties and Value Added Tax (VAT). Most commonly, these procedures utilize an ATA Carnet – an internationally recognized document accepted in many countries worldwide.

Why is this topic important? Because it directly impacts a company's costs, time, and efficiency when participating in international exhibitions, events, or conducting professional activities abroad. At Unicore.lv, with over 20 years of experience in freight forwarding and customs matters, we have compiled all the essential information to ensure your temporary shipments proceed smoothly and without complications.

What is Temporary Import/Export and Why is it Important?

The temporary import or export customs procedure is designed for goods brought into or out of a customs territory for a limited period, with the intention of returning them in their original state. The main benefit is exemption from customs duties and other taxes (e.g., VAT) if the goods are re-exported or re-imported within a specified timeframe. Typically, such a procedure requires a guarantee deposit or a bank guarantee for taxes, which can tie up a company's cash flow. This is where the ATA Carnet steps in to simplify the process.

Common scenarios for temporary movement:

• Exhibitions, trade fairs, and conferences: Display materials, stand equipment, demo products.
• Professional equipment: Filming gear, musical instruments, theatre sets, medical devices, sports equipment.
• Commercial samples: For product demonstration without the intent to sell.
• Scientific and research instruments: Equipment for short-term projects abroad.
• Works of art: For exhibitions or restoration.
• Humanitarian aid: In emergency situations.

The goal of these procedures is to foster international cooperation and trade by reducing the bureaucratic burden and financial risks associated with temporary movement of goods.

The ATA Carnet: Your Goods Passport to the World

An ATA Carnet is an international customs document that simplifies the temporary import and export of goods in countries that are party to the ATA Convention. The name ATA comes from the French words Admission Temporaire and the English words Temporary Admission. It is essentially a passport for goods, which exempts you from customs duties and the requirement for a guarantee deposit at the border.

Key benefits of an ATA Carnet:

1. Simplified customs procedure: No need to complete separate national customs declarations in each country. 2. Financial savings: No customs duties and VAT payable, nor is a guarantee deposit required. 3. Time savings: Faster customs clearance at the border. 4. Single document: One document serves for the entire journey through multiple countries and for multiple movements (if the carnet is valid). 5. Wide acceptance: Recognized in about 80 countries and customs territories.

The Carnet is valid for one year from its issue date, during which time goods can be exported and re-imported multiple times, if specified in the carnet. It is important to remember that a carnet can only be used for goods that are intended for temporary use and will not be consumed or altered in the destination country.

How to Obtain and Use an ATA Carnet?

In Latvia, the ATA Carnet is issued by the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LTRK). The process involves several steps:

1. Application submission: An application must be submitted to LTRK, detailing all goods, their value, and the intended purpose of use. 2. Security: A security deposit or bank guarantee must be provided to LTRK, covering potential customs duties and VAT if the goods are not returned. 3. Carnet issuance: After reviewing the application and security, LTRK issues the ATA Carnet.

Usage at the border:

Each time goods with an ATA Carnet cross a border, the carnet must be presented to customs officials. It consists of several sheets or vouchers:

• Green cover: General information about the shipment and holder.
• Yellow vouchers: Used for export from the originating country and re-import back into it.
• White vouchers: Used for import into the destination country and re-export from it.
• Blue vouchers: For transit through third countries.

Each voucher must be completed and stamped by customs. This is vitally important to avoid any problems and to prove the return of the goods. An incorrectly stamped carnet can lead to demands for customs duties and penalties. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully check all stamps and date entries.

Unicore.lv Expertise at Your Service

Temporary import and export procedures, especially with the use of an ATA Carnet, can seem complex. Our goal at Unicore.lv is to make your international freight forwarding as simple as possible. With 20 years of experience and IATA certification, we are ready to help you navigate the customs labyrinth.

How can we help?

• Customs consultations: We provide detailed consultations on the use of ATA Carnets and other customs procedures, ensuring you are fully informed of all requirements.
• Document preparation: We assist in correctly preparing all necessary documents, including customs declarations, to avoid errors and delays.
• Logistics solutions: Whether your goods travel by sea freight services, air, road, or rail, we offer efficient and reliable transport solutions to over 110 countries.
• Cargo tracking: We provide full cargo traceability throughout the journey, giving you peace of mind.

We understand the importance of your goods reaching their destination on time and without additional costs. Our team is committed to providing the highest quality services, tailored to your individual needs. Learn more about Unicore and our commitment to exceptional service.

Important Tips for Temporary Cargo Shipments

1. Plan ahead: Obtaining an ATA Carnet and preparing documents takes time. Start the process early enough. 2. Detailed list: Ensure that the list of all goods in the carnet is accurate and complete. 3. Customs stamps: Always ensure that each voucher is correctly filled out and stamped by customs for both entry and exit from each country. This is the primary proof of goods return. 4. Validity period: Carefully monitor the ATA Carnet's validity period and return the goods on time. 5. Insurance: While an ATA Carnet simplifies customs procedures, it does not cover damage or loss of goods. Consider cargo insurance to protect your investment. 6. Professional assistance: Contact an experienced logistics partner like Unicore.lv for professional support and to ensure compliance with all formalities. To understand the division of responsibilities in international transactions, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the Incoterms 2020 Guide.

In Conclusion

Temporary import and export customs procedures, especially with the help of an ATA Carnet, are an excellent tool for businesses operating in an international environment. They allow for efficient and economical movement of goods for various purposes without unnecessary bureaucracy and financial burden.

Unicore.lv is your reliable partner to ensure your temporary shipments proceed smoothly and without problems. Our knowledge and experience will allow you to focus on your core business while we take care of logistics and customs matters. If you need assistance with customs formalities or freight forwarding, feel free to get a free quote today!