The Art of Saving on Customs Expenses: Exemptions and Legal Incentives
Customs duties and VAT constitute a significant part of the total cost in international transportation. However, it is possible to minimize or even completely zero out these costs within the legal framework with the right knowledge and the right logistics partner. As Han Bros Cargo, we offer our customers not only transportation services but also 'cost optimization' services. Customs exemptions and discounts vary according to the content of your shipment and your legal status. Our job is to construct the documents and strategies that will open the door of these exemptions for you in the most correct way.
What are the Most Commonly Used Customs Exemptions?
The most common tax advantages encountered on the routes we serve are as follows:
- Personal Effects (Home Moving) Exemption: If you are moving your residence from one country to another, you can import your personal items that you have used for a certain period of time without paying customs duty.
- ATR Advantage in Industrial Products: Turkish origin industrial products that will go from Turkey to EU countries gain tax-free transition rights within the scope of the 'Customs Union' thanks to the ATR document.
- Gift and Sample Limit: Information on low-value shipments that are non-commercial and remain under a certain value limit (such as under 135 GBP for the UK) have customs duty advantages.
- Temporary Import: Uncollateralized transition facilities provided for products sent for an exhibition, fair, or repair purpose and will return.
Why is Exemption Easier with Han Bros Cargo?
We act proactively instead of 'waiting and seeing' at customs. We provide free consultancy while filling out the Transfer of Residence (ToR) forms and resolving technical deficiencies for our customers who will move especially to the UK. Thanks to this consultancy, our customers often get rid of the tax burden amounting to thousands of Euros/Pounds. In addition, we reflect indirect 'time saving discounts' to our corporate customers who make large-volume or regular shipments thanks to their speed in customs processes. Working with Han Bros means paying less at customs and earning more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important condition for customs exemption?
Although it varies according to the exemption type, the most important condition is usually that the item is 'not commercial' and the person has a permanent link in that country (residence, job, etc.). Usually no. Exemption covers the items you are already using and owning. Products you have newly bought can be subject to commercial regimes. ATR document is obtained from the Chamber of Commerce to which the exporter company is affiliated and approved at customs. Han Bros can manage this process on your behalf. In household goods exemptions, the condition of bringing your belongings within the first 12 months after you settle in the country you go to is usually sought. Tax rates vary according to the type of item (HS code). While they are 0% for some products, they can be in the range of 10-20% for some. That's why performing a preliminary analysis is critical.Can I benefit from exemption if I buy second-hand furniture and send it abroad?
Where can I get the ATR document?
Is there a time limit to get a customs discount?
Are tax rates very high in case of not being able to get an exemption?
Reduce your tax burden, protect your budget. Benefit from customs exemptions immediately with Han Bros Cargo!
