Country specific requirements and variations
Information about the specific requirements and variations in other countries.
Although ATA Carnets are recognised under the ATA and Istanbul Conventions, each country interprets the rules slightly differently. There can be variations in:
- how goods and vouchers are processed
- the length of stay allowed under temporary admission
- the documentation required (such as translations or extra identification marks)
Always check with the host customs authority or your issuing chamber before travel to understand any local requirements.
Taiwan is not a party to the ATA Convention. When goods move between the UK and Taiwan, you must use a China-Taiwan Carnet (also called a CPD Carnet) instead of an ATA Carnet. This special Carnet is only valid for movements between the UK and Taiwan — it cannot be used for any other country.
If your goods will travel to Taiwan and other countries on the same journey, you will need both an ATA Carnet and a CPD Carnet. The 2 documents should be cross-referenced to minimise the risk of goods being mis-declared. Border Force will validate and endorse both Carnets on export from the UK. The CPD Carnet has the same structure and information requirements as an ATA Carnet but uses different coloured pages.
Within the EU, export procedures can vary.
Low value goods
Some member states allow simplified oral declarations for low value goods for example, goods not exceeding €1000 in value or 1000kg in net mass. Goods above these thresholds usually require a formal export declaration, which may be lodged electronically or in paper form.
When moving goods to France, travellers should check with French customs to confirm whether a Carnet is needed for low value consignments. For other EU countries, consult your issuing chamber or the host customs to determine if a Carnet is appropriate.
Some countries restrict how goods may be split or shipped separately under a single carnet.
Split consignments are not accepted in:
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Vietnam
Goods listed on the general list may be imported separately only if those specific items are re-exported together in one consignment. If you plan to return goods in more than one shipment, ensure that your route country allows this and apply for enough vouchers to cover the planned movements.
Before planning split consignments, verify the rules for each country on your route, as some prohibit multiple shipments under a single carnet. Consult official guidance or the issuing chamber to confirm conditions and avoid delays or refusals at the border.
Not all countries accept replacement Carnets and some require pre-approval.
Read more information on country-specific requirements of replacement carnets
Although ATA Carnets are valid for up to 12 months, some countries set shorter time limits for specific types of goods. For example, exhibition goods or professional equipment. Others may ask for a deposit or impose stricter reporting requirements.
If you exceed the local time limit without approval, customs authorities may charge duty, tax and penalties. Always check the time allowed in each country and request an extension or replacement carnet well before the deadline.