Customs duties for international removals DACHSER & KOLB provides comprehensive support with all customs formalities and relevant entry requirements.
An international move is coming up and depends on correct and smooth customs clearance. Find out everything you need to know about regulations, formalities, and special import rules.
Some countries have specific prohibitions and restrictions that you must observe in order to emigrate to your destination without any problems.
Why does customs play such an important role when moving?
When moving across national borders, your household goods are considered a movement of goods for customs purposes. Depending on the destination country and the status of the person entering the country (e.g., returnee, first-time entry), different regulations must be observed. You should therefore find out about the applicable guidelines at an early stage:
✓ Are your removal goods exempt from customs duties and taxes?
✓ Are customs duties and import sales tax incurred?
✓ Which goods are exempt or subject to special regulations?
Which countries have special customs regulations? Find out now.
Which countries have special customs regulations in the EU/Germany? Find out now.
Europe
Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom
Asia
What does customs mean when moving internationally?
In the context of international relocation, “customs” refers to all legal regulations relating to the import and export of your household goods across national borders. If you are moving from a country outside the EU to the European Union, your personal household goods may be classified as “relocation goods.” If you meet the relevant EU customs requirements, you may be eligible for duty-free and tax-free importation, meaning that no import duties will be payable.
Customs exemption in the context of an international move generally applies to privately used items such as furniture, household appliances, private vehicles, and pets. Commercially used goods and goods such as alcohol or tobacco, which are subject to regular customs and tax regulations, are excluded.
What are the objectives of customs?
Protection of the national economy
Preventing unfair imports and securing regional markets.
Safety
Control of weapons, hazardous substances, drugs, and counterfeit goods.
Tax revenue
Collection of import duties and taxes.
Consumer protection
Compliance with quality and safety standards.
Environmental and species protection
Control of protected species, woods, and materials.
Transparency
Recording of trade of goods for statistical and economic policy purposes.
How does customs clearance work?
DACHSER & KOLB handles customs clearance for your move—worldwide, safely, and with personal support.
Preliminary check
We review the requirements of your destination country and analyze your personal relocation situation.
Creating documents
We then prepare all the necessary documents—from the inventory list and relevant supporting documents to the required powers of attorney.
Customs declaration
In the next step, we take care of the entire customs declaration process, submit your documents, and coordinate with the relevant authorities.
Clearance
After clearance by customs, we will transport your belongings to your new address.
Why is good customs preparation important—and why choose DACHSER & KOLB?
To ensure that your move goes smoothly, all information must be complete and correct. Careful preparation speeds up customs clearance and prevents additional costs.
For this, we need the following from you:
- A complete, accurate inventory list
- Invoices or value information, if applicable
- Information about special or regulated items
- Reliable contact details for any queries
FAQ - What are the most frequently asked questions about customs?
What exactly are customs duties?
Customs duties are government levies and controls on goods crossing borders. When moving, checks are carried out to determine which items may be imported and under what conditions.
Why does customs play such an important role when moving?
Your moving goods are considered international merchandise. Errors in preparation can lead to delays and additional costs. DACHSER & KOLB ensures that all documentation is correct.
What customs documents do I need?
Usually: ID, list of moving goods, proof of change of residence, and, if applicable, visa/residence permit. DACHSER & KOLB will create a suitable checklist.
When are my belongings exempt from customs duties?
If you are relocating your primary residence and your possessions have been in use for some time – depending on the destination country. We will check in advance whether duty-free clearance is possible.
How can risks and additional costs at customs be reduced?
Through careful preparation of customs clearance: complete and correct customs documents, clearly structured inventory lists, and coordinated customs declarations. This significantly minimizes queries from customs authorities, delays in customs clearance, and costly additional payments.
Why DACHSER & KOLB is the right choice
Personalized advice
Detailed needs analysis for customized relocation solutions.
Relocation planning from A to Z
Complete relocation planning: from packing to unloading, all from a single source.
Reliable network
Global network for safe, seamless transport.
We are here for you
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