B-2-7- The ATA carnet international customs document


2-7-1- ATA Carnet: definition

The ATA carnet is a customs document used for temporary admission within the scope of international transactions outside the European union. The ATA Carnet contains vouchers that need to be filled out, and can be considered formal customs declarations. They replace the usual declarations that are typically necessary within the scope of international transactions.

The document permits sending of samples and exhibition materials used for exhibits and trade fairs, and sending equipment needed to carry out professional activities. After use, the equipment and/or materials will be re-imported prior to the end of the validity period.

The ATA carnet is used worldwide under the ATA and Istanbul Conventions.

2-7-2- The ATA Carnet: advantages

Their use allows the benefit of duty-free access in entering a country under the guarantee of an international bonding system.

2-7-3- The ATA Carnet: the document

The ATA Carnet is available at and issued by the Chambers of Commerce of Industry. It is not free. It is composed of two pages designated for the customs office of the country of origin; the first for export and the second for re-import. The Chamber of commerce endorses ATA Carnets, which contains product lists and destinations.

2-7-4- The ATA carnets: validation

The validation of the ATA carnets occurs upon presentation of the documents and goods to the customs office.