ATA Carnet Support for Birmingham Businesses

What is an ATA Carnet and who needs one?

An ATA Carnet is an international customs document — sometimes called a 'passport for goods' — that allows temporary export and re-import of goods between participating countries without paying import duty or VAT. It's valid for up to 12 months and can be used for multiple trips, as long as the goods return in their original condition (normal wear excepted).

It covers three main uses: commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for trade fairs and exhibitions. Birmingham businesses attending overseas trade shows, taking demonstration equipment abroad, or shipping samples to prospective clients are the most common users. Controlled or dual-use goods — firearms, explosives, certain chemicals — still need separate export or import licences even when covered by a carnet.

Step-by-step — how EasyClearance helps Birmingham businesses

Step 1 — Confirm eligibility. Not every product qualifies — goods must fall within the categories covered by the ATA Carnet system, and the destination country must accept carnets.

Step 2 — Prepare the application. ATA Carnets in the UK are issued by a network of Chambers of Commerce, authorised by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) through UKNATACO — not by customs agents. The application needs holder and representative details, a full itemised goods list with values and serial numbers, and the planned travel itinerary.

Step 3 — Arrange the security. Every carnet needs a guarantee covering the highest duty, VAT and a 10% penalty that could apply in any country on the itinerary — options include a cash deposit, bank guarantee, insurance, or the Carnet Security Scheme (CSS).

Step 4 — Submit through an issuing Chamber. You can apply through any Chamber listed by UKNATACO; Birmingham businesses aren't restricted to a local Chamber.

EasyClearance supports Birmingham businesses through this process — preparing the goods list and documentation, checking eligibility and destination requirements, and making sure the application is ready before it goes to the issuing Chamber, so nothing gets rejected or delayed.

FAQ

No — in the UK, ATA Carnets are issued only by a network of Chambers of Commerce authorised through UKNATACO, not by customs agents. EasyClearance helps Birmingham businesses prepare accurate documentation and the goods list before the application goes to an issuing Chamber.

Up to 12 months, and it can be used for multiple trips within that period, as long as the goods are re-exported in their original condition.

Commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for trade fairs or exhibitions. Controlled items such as firearms, explosives or certain chemicals need separate licences even when covered by a carnet.

Official sources

• ATA Carnet technical handbook — Introduction — GOV.UK
• Applying for an ATA Carnet — GOV.UK
• ATA Carnet technical handbook — Eligibility and scope — GOV.UK