Customs documents

Quick Answer

Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.zoll.de/DE/Fachthemen/Zoelle/Zolldokumente/zolldokumente_node.html

Category

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

Unlike general trade documents such as purchase orders or delivery notes, customs documents are legally required records that must be submitted to border authorities for every cross-border movement of goods. The standard set typically includes the customs declaration, commercial invoice, packing list, transport document (bill of lading or air waybill), and certificate of origin. Depending on the commodity, trade lane, and destination country, additional import licences, phytosanitary certificates, or other regulatory permits may be required. Incomplete or inaccurate documentation gives customs authorities grounds to hold, query, or reject a consignment, causing costly delays. Submissions are increasingly electronic, processed through national portals such as the EU's ICS2 system or HMRC's Customs Declaration Service in the UK. Freight forwarders and customs brokers bear operational responsibility for ensuring all paperwork is in order before the goods arrive.

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Related Terms

interpretation rule

electronic accompanying document

Chartera Output (ePortal, BAZG)

Accompanying document

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Export-Import Document Verification

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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