# Customs declaration of contents

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> When a shipment crosses a customs border, the consignor or freight forwarder must submit a customs declaration of contents—a structured document enabling the customs authority to identify and appraise the goods.

When a shipment crosses a customs border, the consignor or freight forwarder must submit a customs declaration of contents—a structured document enabling the customs authority to identify and appraise the goods. It typically includes a description of the goods, quantity, customs value, country of origin, tariff classification number, consignor, and consignee details. Customs uses this information to assess import duties and conduct risk-based screening. Depending on the mode of transport and the applicable customs procedure, the declaration may be incorporated into an existing document such as a commercial invoice or bill of lading, or filed as a standalone form. Incomplete or inaccurate entries regularly result in shipment delays, additional charges, or fines.

**Source:** [https://www.zoll.de/DE/Service/Moegliche-Fragen/A-bis-Z/Zollinhaltserklaerung/zollinhaltserklaerung_node.html](https://www.zoll.de/DE/Service/Moegliche-Fragen/A-bis-Z/Zollinhaltserklaerung/zollinhaltserklaerung_node.html)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs declaration of contents |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 112 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://www.zoll.de/DE/Service/Moegliche-Fragen/A-bis-Z/Zollinhaltserklaerung/zollinhaltserklaerung_node.html |

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