Master customs clearance & import successfully

A key aspect of global trade in goods is customs clearance, which plays an important role when importing goods to Germany. Find out how to master customs clearance and successfully import goods from non-EU countries.

Imagine you are importing products from China and after months of planning, the urgently needed machine components are finally due to arrive. But shortly before the destination, at the German border, the process comes to a standstill. Incorrect documents and unclear customs regulations lead to weeks of delays and cause high additional costs. This experience shows: anyone who underestimates customs clearance risks a lot.

However, if you want to avoid delays or additional costs, you should understand the import process in detail and implement the steps of the customs procedure correctly.

What does import processing involve?

Import processing includes all the necessary steps to bring goods from abroad to Germany. From selecting the supplier and clarifying the import requirements to delivery to the end customer - every step of the process is essential. A key part of this process is the import customs procedure, where documents are checked, duties are calculated and goods are released.

5 central steps of the customs clearance procedure

1. Prepare import documents

The required documents include the invoice, the consignment note and, if applicable, a certificate of origin. These documents must be completed correctly and comply with the applicable customs regulations.

2. Customs declaration

In Germany, customs declarations are submitted via the ATLAS electronic customs system. All relevant data of the consignment, such as goods tariff numbers and goods value, are added.

3. Inspection by customs

After the declaration, the customs authority checks the available documents and decides whether a physical inspection of the goods is necessary. This may be the case in the event of incomplete information or suspicious consignments.

4. Calculation of the import duties

Customs duties are made up of the customs duty applied to the value of the goods and the import sales tax. Depending on the goods, additional duties such as excise duties may apply.

5. release of goods

After payment of the import duties, customs releases the goods, after which they can be transported to their destination.

What you need to bear in mind when importing from non-EU countries

While trade within the EU is considerably simplified by the customs union, the regulations for imports from third countries, such as China or the USA, are much stricter. In these cases, companies must fulfil numerous specific requirements in order to process import customs clearance smoothly and without delays.

Determine customs tariff numbers

A key point is the correct determination of customs tariff numbers. These numbers are essential as they form the basis for calculating customs duties and other import duties.

Check preferential agreements

Another important aspect is the examination of preferential agreements between Germany and the exporting country. Such trade agreements can offer considerable tariff concessions, provided the relevant requirements are met.

Observe product safety

Strict product safety requirements must also be observed, particularly for technical products. These include CE labelling, which proves that the product complies with European safety and environmental standards.

In addition to this, further safety tests are often necessary to enable access to the European market. Comprehensive preparation for these requirements is the key to handling imports from non-EU countries successfully and without delays.

What is essential when importing from China?

China is one of Germany's most important trading partners, but the differences in customs and trade regulations are complex. In addition to the general requirements, it is therefore advisable to familiarise yourself with the special features of Chinese export documents such as the Certificate of Origin and the respective packaging and labelling regulations.

In addition, the products to be imported must be checked for compliance with EU standards, as goods manufactured in China do not always automatically comply with European standards.

Working with an experienced customs broker or procurement service provider such as Line Up can help to overcome these hurdles efficiently and ensure a smooth import.

Further challenges in customs clearance

Incorrect or incomplete documents can cause considerable delays in customs clearance for imports, which not only costs time but can also drive up storage costs. For goods from third countries in particular, it is essential to submit all required documents correctly and on time in order to speed up the process. For goods from third countries in particular, it is essential to submit all the required documents correctly and on time in order to speed up the process.

In addition, complex customs regulations pose a challenge, which can vary not only by country of origin but also by product group. The import of electronic products, for example, requires different proof than that of textiles.

Another critical point is the unexpected costs that can arise during the customs clearance process. Storage costs, penalties in the event of delays or additional charges on top of the actual customs duties can quickly blow up the import calculation. To avoid unpleasant surprises, you should always plan a financial cushion and inform yourself about possible additional costs.

8 tips for smooth customs clearance

1. find out about the regulations

Use online tools such as the EZT (electronic customs tariff) to research the regulations relevant to your goods.

2. use digital solutions

Electronic systems facilitate document creation and communication with the customs authorities.

3. train your employees

Invest in training to ensure your teams understand key customs regulations and processes.

4. create a checklist

A standardised checklist makes it easier to process all the necessary documents and steps completely and correctly.

5. check your supply chain

Make sure that your logistics partners are also familiar with the relevant customs regulations to avoid delays.

6. plan enough time

Allow for buffer times, especially if you are working with new partners or in previously unknown markets.

7. benefit from customs advantages

Find out about free trade agreements and special regulations to reduce potential costs.

8. hire experienced customs agents

A professional service provider such as Line Up can handle the entire customs clearance process and relieve you of administrative tasks.

How Line Up supports you with import handling

Line Up supports you in import handling with a comprehensive range of services, from planning to final delivery. The core tasks include checking and preparing import documents, support with customs declarations and customs inspections as well as advice on customs tariffs and import duties. We also handle special cases such as temporary imports or customs refunds.

The aim is to make your import processes more efficient, minimise time and effort and create new scope for core tasks. In particular, we know the special features of import processing from China down to the last detail and can provide you with comprehensive support.

The import process may seem complex, but with the right preparation and a professional partner, challenges can be overcome, delays avoided and goods imported on time and economically.

Make an appointment now for import advice.