# Customs

*Last updated: 2026-06-16*

> Customs administration exists to collect duties, control the movement of goods, and enforce security and compliance requirements at national and regional borders.

Customs administration exists to collect duties, control the movement of goods, and enforce security and compliance requirements at national and regional borders. In day-to-day freight operations, forwarders and importers must lodge customs declarations, present commercial and transport documents, and plan for clearance timelines that vary by tariff classification, country of origin, and applicable procedure. Within the EU, internal border controls are largely abolished; full customs formalities apply at external borders and in trade with third countries. Beyond revenue collection, customs authorities enforce import prohibitions, verify origin documentation, and screen consignments against sanctions lists. The term "customs" refers to the entire system – legislation, authorities, and individual procedures alike.

**Source:** [https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu](https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 108 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-16 |
| Source | https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu |

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