What is an ATA Carnet?
An ATA Carnet is an international customs document often called a “passport for goods”. It allows eligible goods to be temporarily exported from the UK and temporarily imported into participating countries without paying import duties and taxes at each border, provided the goods are returned and carnet conditions are met.
ATA Carnets are commonly used for:
- professional equipment
- exhibition and trade fair goods
- commercial samples
A carnet is usually valid for up to one year and can cover multiple trips during that period. It helps reduce customs paperwork, avoid cash deposits, and simplify border formalities.
How the ATA Carnet process works
The process is straightforward, but the details matter.
- Apply for the carnet through TVCC
- Provide your goods list and supporting information
- TVCC checks the application and security requirements
- The carnet is issued
- Customs formalities are completed for each leg of the journey
- The goods return to the UK and the carnet is correctly discharged
Incorrect use, missing customs endorsements, or poor record keeping can lead to customs queries or claims after travel. That is why itinerary planning and evidence retention matter.
ATA Carnets are going digital
From 1 June 2026, the UK, EU, Norway and Switzerland begin the move to digital ATA Carnets. During the transition period, paper and digital carnets will coexist, and the format used will depend on the itinerary and which customs authorities are ready to process digitally.
Digital carnets are intended to make temporary admission easier to manage, with QR-based customs processing and better visibility of transactions, other benefits include lower administrative burden, reduced risk of document loss and improved visibility of movements.
Support with your ATA Carnet
Whether you are applying for the first time or managing a more complex temporary export, TVCC can help you plan the right approach and avoid common carnet errors.
We can support you with:
- ATA Carnet applications
- advice on whether an ATA Carnet is the right route
- goods list and itinerary checks before issue
- destination-specific queries
- Goods Movement Reference (GMR) for companies exporting or importing goods under an ATA carnet issued by TVCC.
- paper, digital and mixed itinerary guidance
- support where a freight forwarder or representative is involved
- practical guidance on record keeping and post-travel evidence
- help with more complex carnet scenarios, including multi-country routes and split movements
If your movement falls outside standard carnet use, we can also help you assess the wider customs position and next steps.
ATA Carnet training and workshops
For businesses that want a clearer understanding of how ATA Carnets work in practice, TVCC also offers training and workshops as part of its wider international trade support.
This can be particularly useful for first-time users, frequent carnet users, and businesses managing more complex temporary exports.
Talk to us
For more information, call us directly on 0208 564 6300, email carnet@tvchamber.co.uk or fill in the form below.
For GMR applications email chambercustoms@tvchamber.co.uk