ATA Carnet UK

No - an ATA Carnet is not required in every situation. Whether you need one depends on the destination country, the type of goods, how long they will remain overseas, and what they’re being used for.

In many cases, an ATA Carnet is the simplest option for exhibitions, film and TV equipment, touring gear and commercial samples. However, some movements may be better handled using alternative temporary export or customs procedures. We’ll advise on the most suitable route for your specific shipment.

ATA Carnets are accepted in a large number of countries worldwide, including most of Europe and many destinations further afield. Acceptance can vary depending on the country and the purpose of the movement.

We’ll confirm whether your destination accepts an ATA Carnet and whether any country-specific rules or restrictions apply before you travel.

To get started, we typically need:

• Destination country or countries

• Travel dates

• A list of goods (descriptions, quantities, values and serial numbers where available)

If you don’t yet have a complete goods list, that’s not a problem - we can help you build and refine it to meet carnet requirements.

Timings depend on how quickly information can be confirmed and the complexity of the goods list. Once we have complete details, the process can often move efficiently.

For time-critical shipments, urgent and same-day ATA Carnet options may be available. If you’re working to a tight deadline, let us know as early as possible.

Yes - we can offer an ATA Carnet in the UK in as little as one hour. This depends on factors such as the destination, goods list readiness and timing

If your travel date is close, contact us immediately and we’ll confirm whether an urgent ATA carnet option is available and what information is required.

If an ATA Carnet is not used correctly - for example, if goods are not properly stamped at borders or the goods list doesn’t match what travels - it can result in delays, fines or unexpected customs charges.

We provide guidance on how to present and use the carnet at each stage to help avoid these issues and ensure the carnet is correctly closed on return.

An ATA Carnet is a specific customs document designed for temporary movements of goods across multiple borders without paying duty and VAT at each point.

Temporary export procedures are an alternative method that may be used in certain situations or destinations. The best option depends on where the goods are going, how they’re being used and how long they’ll remain abroad. We’ll advise on the most appropriate solution for your shipment.

Yes - we're a part of 500 Logistics so, in addition to ATA Carnet support, we can also assist with the associated freight movements by road, air or sea. This allows us to manage the paperwork and logistics together, reducing risk and simplifying the process.