Export Documentation

Export Documentation for Germany: Required Documents

Documents for shipping to or from Germany: core documents, certificates, restricted goods, and customs procedures. Customs authority: German Customs (Zoll).

Country
Germany
Customs authority
German Customs (Zoll)
Trading bloc
European Union
Currency
EUR
Estimated clearance
Same day to 2 days for compliant shipments

EORI number required for all importers

EU customs procedures apply

ATLAS electronic customs system

VAT registration may be required

Core documents

  • Commercial Invoice (required): EUR values, detailed description, origin
  • Packing List (required): Package details and contents
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (required): Transport document
  • Customs Declaration (SAD) (required): Single Administrative Document for EU customs
  • Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) (required): Pre-arrival security filing Filed via ICS system

Additional documents

  • Certificate of Origin: For preferential duty rates EUR.1 or origin declaration for FTA partners
  • CE Marking Documentation: For regulated products Declaration of Conformity required
  • REACH Compliance: For chemical substances Pre-registration with ECHA required
  • Phytosanitary Certificate: For plant products From country of origin
  • Health Certificate: For food and animal products EU-approved establishments

Special certificates

  • CE Mark: applies to Most manufactured goods, issued by Notified Bodies or self-declaration.
  • GS Mark: applies to Consumer products, issued by German testing institutes.
  • REACH Registration: applies to Chemical substances, issued by ECHA.
  • WEEE Registration: applies to Electrical equipment, issued by EAR Foundation.

Customs procedures

  • ATLAS electronic customs declaration
  • Simplified procedures for AEO holders
  • Deferred duty payment available
  • Transit procedures for onward movement

Restricted goods

  • Food products (EU health standards)
  • Medicines (BfArM approval)
  • Chemicals (REACH registration)
  • Weapons (federal license)
  • Dual-use goods (export control)

Prohibited goods

  • Counterfeit goods
  • Products violating intellectual property
  • Certain animal products
  • Illegal drugs
  • Products from embargoed countries

Tips

  • Obtain EORI number before first import
  • Understand CE marking requirements for your products
  • REACH registration is mandatory for chemicals > 1 ton/year
  • Consider AEO status for simplified procedures
  • VAT is payable on import (19% standard rate)

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need an EORI number to import to Germany?

Yes, an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for all customs activities in the EU. Apply through German customs (Zoll) or any EU member state.

What is CE marking and when is it required?

CE marking indicates conformity with EU health, safety, and environmental requirements. It's mandatory for products sold in the EU including toys, electronics, machinery, and medical devices.

How does VAT work for imports to Germany?

Import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) is charged at 19% (or 7% reduced rate) on the customs value plus duties. VAT-registered businesses can reclaim this as input tax.