That’s what it sounds like, doesn’t it? Car-nay. It brings forth images of fancy wine. One that pairs really well with raclette, fondue, or something else grown-up and tasty. 

Unfortunately for us all, we’re not talking about wine. This is shipping, remember? ATA Carnet is a lot drier a topic than anything red and bottled and much, much less fruity.

Let’s dive in. 

What Is an ATA Carnet?

If you’re temporarily taking goods out of the country, you can use an ATA Carnet to simplify the process. This could be because your goods are due to be part of an exhibition in another country, for example, or perhaps you’re exporting equipment to be tested at an overseas facility. 

The focus is that ATA Carnets cover temporary exports. And an ATA Carnet is effectively a passport for those goods that is valid for one year.

The international customs document saves all the hassle of needing a customs declaration at the import border ports, and you will not be required to pay duty or tax on your consignments. The Carnet can be used for a trip that spans more than one country, and also covers multiple exits and re-entries during the year it’s valid for. 

Smart, right? Carnets save you a load of time and fuss.

There are a few rules to bare in mind, though…

What Do I Need To Know About Using an ATA Carnet

It’s a really helpful scheme, but you can’t use a Carnet to cover absolutely everything. 

For one, goods that qualify for an ATA Carnet must be non-perishable. They must also return in the same state in which they were imported, meaning sending products overseas for repairs, modifications and processing is not allowed under a Carnet.

Here are some other bits of information it’s important to know about using an ATA Carnet…

Which Countries Are Part Of The Scheme?

An ATA Carnet is not needed if you’re moving UK goods inside the EU.

At the time of writing, 87 countries are participating in the Carnet system across Europe, North America, South America, Oceania Africa and Asia, with the Philippines soon to be accepting the document also. 

Some participating countries hold particular requirements for the goods entering them, so be sure to check that your goods will be allowed to enter before organising a Carnet.

What Does A Carnet Look Like?

Each Carnet is an A4 document that is made up of a cover sheet, vouchers and grouped counterfoils; the number of each is dependent on the planned journey. Because you must provide details of all of the goods you want to cover, extra sheets can be added in the event you run out of space to do so. 

Once the Carnet has been approved and issued, the document will be signed and stamped by the official who endorsed the document.

What Goods are EXCLUDED? 

Perishable and consumable goods cannot travel under an ATA Carnet. Restricted and prohibited goods may, as long as they fit the criteria and travel with relevant licenses. 

Can Goods Transported Under An ATA Carnet Be Sold?

Usually, no. In exceptional circumstances, it may be allowed by the host Customs. If you do not get their approval but are found to have sold the goods anyway, you’ll have to repay the duty, taxes and admin charges, as well as a penalty fine.

How Much Does A Carnet Cost?

To obtain a Carnet, you’ll need to pay £325+VAT. LCI members can access a discounted rate of £195+VAT.

A security payment will also be necessary for each Carnet, to protect the LCCI, as the guaranteeing organisation, against misuse of the Carnet. You can get a quote for this here.

Can I Go Over The 12 Months?

Some authorities might extend the validity period and grant approval for a replacement Carnet; it is decided on a case-by-case basis. Replacement Carnets need to be validated by the National Carnet Unit before being used abroad. 

What Happens If I Lose My Document?

It’s a pain, but all is not lost! (Pun intended). Substitute Carnets can be obtained for a repeat fee and should also be validated by the National Carnet Unit before use. 

What Happens If My Goods Are Lost Or Damaged?

As usual, if this happens, this should be immediately reported to the Customs Authorities in the country of the incident. A police report is also necessary for insurance purposes.

Benefits Of Using ATA Carnet

As you can see, there are lots of important elements to consider when getting an ATA Carnet. But there are huge advantages to using the so-called passport for your goods…

As long as you abide by the rules, exporting goods under a Carnet saves a whole load of time. That’s time spent preparing all of the customs documents, not to mention the physical time spent waiting to clear in each country you visit. No delays at borders… imagine that!

And it doesn’t stop there. If you’re an exhibitor, athlete, business traveller, artist or TV crew, for example, travelling under a Carnet means you don’t have to pay import duties or tax at each border. The Carnet scheme saves you money on multiple trips and enables you to forecast more effectively.

How To Apply For An ATA Carnet

If you want to apply for your own ATA Carnet, you can go one of two ways. Online or in person. 

Online is the easiest way to apply for an ATA Carnet, (big surprise). If you’re an existing LCCI member and want to apply online, click here. If you’re new, this is where you need to go. Don’t worry – the website is owned and managed by LCCI themselves. 

You can also visit a Chambers of Commerce to get the ball rolling. Check with your local chamber before visiting to make sure they can do this for you.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Carnet?

It takes 24 hours to get the document unless you stump up extra for a 2-hour express service, and London Chamber members receive a discount on all standard prices.

What Information Do I Need To Provide?

When you apply to obtain a carnet you’ll need:

• Details of the ATA Carnet holder. This is the company that legally owns the goods.
• Details of anyone who will be travelling with the goods
• What the goods are for
• A comprehensive and itemised list of all of the goods. Each entry needs to include a description, weight and value.

You can organise a Carnet on behalf of someone else. You can also give anyone you like your Carnet as long as they have a letter of authorisation from you, the named holder.

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ATA Carnets Streamline Temporary Exportation 

The processes of importing and exporting are filled with red tape and admin woes. Goods travelling under a Carnet simplify the whole experience to give you peace of mind and a whole year of less stress.

Looking at obtaining a Carnet but are confused by the paperwork? A good freight forwarder like Millennium will take care of it for you, so you don’t need to pull your hair out. Contact us today for a friendly chat.