Question 1

Where to file a customs declaration in the EU?

Accepted Answer

Customs declarations in the EU are filed electronically via national customs systems (e.g., AIS/IMPORT in Poland, ATLAS in Germany). The competent office depends on the importer's registered office or the goods' destination. Border offices handle clearance at ports, airports and road border crossings.

Question 2

What is the difference between a customs office and a customs and tax office?

Accepted Answer

Since 2017 in Poland, customs and tax offices (UCS) under the National Revenue Administration (KAS) replaced former customs offices. They handle both customs clearance and tax control. Similar consolidations have occurred in other EU member states under various names.

Question 3

How to find the customs office code for a customs declaration?

Accepted Answer

Customs office codes (CS codes) are required in SAD declarations and electronic filings. In the EU, a unified code format from the SEED/CS registry is maintained by the European Commission's TARIC system. Celna24 aggregates codes for offices in 20+ countries.

Question 4

Which European ports have the fastest customs clearance?

Accepted Answer

Clearance time depends on goods type, documentation completeness and office workload. In Europe, the fastest container clearances are offered by Rotterdam (Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium) and Hamburg (Germany) thanks to automated clearance systems. In Poland, efficient clearance is available in Gdansk, Gdynia and Warsaw Chopin Airport.

Question 5

Can I clear customs at any office in the EU?

Accepted Answer

Yes - under the EU customs union, centralized customs clearance applies. An importer registered in Poland can clear goods entering via Rotterdam or Hamburg by filing a declaration with the Polish customs office. This requires authorization for the centralized clearance procedure (Art. 179 UCC).

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Customs offices database in Europe

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Customs offices database in Europe

Frequently Asked Questions