GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Direct transit

Unlike transit storage – where goods are temporarily warehoused in an intermediate country – direct transit is a customs procedure under which goods move from the country of departure to the country of destination without interruption.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.zoll.de

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Definition & Explanation

Unlike transit storage – where goods are temporarily warehoused in an intermediate country – direct transit is a customs procedure under which goods move from the country of departure to the country of destination without interruption. The consignment travels under continuous customs seal or supervision, so no import duties or excise taxes are levied in the countries of passage. Freight forwarders favour this procedure for perishables, dangerous goods, and time-critical shipments: clearance is faster and documentary requirements are lighter than for procedures involving transshipment or storage. Direct transit is distinct from direct transit without stop, which additionally prohibits any physical halt of the means of transport along the route.

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