When Should I Use A Carnet in International Shipping? How to Ship Under an ATA Carnet

Your passport is the single most important document you will need in order to travel the world.  Did you know passports aren’t only for humans?  Each year thousands of items move around the world under an ATA Carnet.  As the leading provider of reliable international shipping services from the United States, we can help our customers decide whether a carnet is the best option for moving their goods around the world.

The ATA Carnet (Admission Temporaire / Temporary Admission) is an international customs document that allows goods to temporarily enter a participating country duty and tax free.  You have unlimited entry into all participating countries for a certain period of time.  Furthermore, you will not have to deal with the hassle and costs of obtaining a custom bond or export licenses for your goods.  Carnets are most popularly used under the following scenarios:

• Goods are being shown on display at a foreign trade show
• A company will need to bring certain tools to complete a job or make a repair in a foreign country
• Race car drivers bringing their car to a racing event
• Musical instruments for performers.  For example Stradivarius violins and other priceless instruments
• Yachts and sail boats for international race competitions
• Props, sets and other materials used for a film or entertainment event

The ATA Carnet serves as a passport for your goods!  Speed through customs in 75 countries and territories with an ATA Carnet today!

 
A reliable and experienced overseas shipping company should be able to provide you with a carnet and guide you through the set-up process. In order to to ship your goods overseas under a carnet, you should first consider the following key facts:

• The ATA Carnet is not accepted everywhere.  It is currently accepted in 75 countries and territories around the world.  For a list of countries that currently allow carnets visit: http://www.atacarnet.com/carnet-countries
• A carnet cannot be used for consumable or disposable items or for any type of product or goods that are being sold abroad
• While the carnet allows for goods to enter duty and tax free, the cost of the carnet is calculated on the value of your goods. Check the duty rates for your cargo in the countries it is entering.  You might be surprised to discover your particular good is duty free or has a very low duty rate.  In this case, it might be cheaper to import your good under normal circumstances vs paying for a carnet 

If you are unsure whether a carnet is the best option for your international shipping needs, contact us today at 212-267-6400, on skype at kinternationalny or send an email to sales@kinternational.com