Customs Regulations in Europe Key Terms

Key terms for dealing with European customs regulations
By B. Lumadue If you want to trade in Europe, or you are bringing back goods from vacation, you need to learn about European customs regulations. Regulations, tariffs and taxes can increase the price of goods, affecting your profit and income. Each country within the European Union has its own regulations, making it harder to determine which ones apply to your goods or business. In addition, items brought into the United States are subject to United States Customs regulations. Get to know some of the basic terms of European customs regulations to make the right choices for your business.

Individual countries

There are more than 25 countries within the European Union and each has its own customs regulations, in addition to general European Union (EU) regulations. Many are similar, with limits on items like alcohol and tobacco products.
Try:  See the European Travel Commission for general customs guidelines and a map that allows you to access customs regulations by country.

Traveler entry forms

All travelers to the United States, even citizens returning to the country, must fill out a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) entry form upon arrival. These forms record information about what is being brought into the United States.
Try:  Get information about CBP Traveler Entry Forms from the Department of Homeland Security website.

Tariffs

Tariffs are charges placed on imported products. In the United States, tariffs are imposed on products imported from the European Union. Countries within the EU place tariffs on goods imported from the United States.
Try:  Visit the United States Census Bureau for more information on tariffs.

Agricultural import duty

Import duties are tariffs payable on imports from the United States. The same duty rates are applicable to each country in the European Union, but some countries may have lower rates due to trade agreements. Products that are classified as agricultural may require additional duties on certain components, such as sugar and flour.
Try:  See the Foreign Agricultural Service for an explanation of agricultural import duties and classes.

World Trade Organization

The World Trade Organization (WTO) establishes and monitors rules of trade between nations. Their activities include trade in telecommunications, intellectual property, agriculture, textiles and industrial products.
Try:  Check out the World Trade Organization for more information about its role in international trade.

Value Added Tax

The Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax assessed on the value added to goods and services. It applies to goods and services sold within the EU. It does not apply to items offered for export, but imports to the EU are charged a VAT. Paid VAT is refunded when items are purchased in the EU to be exported or brought home.
Try:  Visit the European Commission website for more information about the Value Added Tax. See EuropeforVisitors to get information about VAT refunds.