GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 27, 2026

GDRN (Goods Declaration Reference Number)

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Last updated: 27 June 2026Published: 26 June 2026

Source: BAZG (bazg.admin.ch): Transportprozess mit Passar (Richtlinie R-10-TP); Umstellung auf Passar Ausfuhr; Vorinformation Passar 2.0 Zugelassener Empfänger – Aktivierung/GDRN. Stand: Juni 2026.

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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

The GDRN (Goods Declaration Reference Number) is the unique reference number of a goods declaration in Passar, the Swiss goods traffic system of the BAZG (Federal Office for Customs and Border Security). In simple terms, it is the "number" under which a declaration of goods for import or export is held and referenced in the system. For professionals (forwarders, customs agents, authorised consignees): the declarant creates the goods declaration in Passar; using the GDRN, an authorised consignee, for example, activates the declaration at the approved location, whereupon the goods declaration becomes binding and the duty liability arises. For exports, the GDRN of the export goods declaration can be used to transfer data into a subsequent transit procedure (NCTS). If no activation takes place within the deadline, the goods declaration becomes invalid. Distinction: the GDRN identifies the goods declaration, whereas the MRN (Movement Reference Number) references the transport or transit procedure, and the transport declaration forms a separate data record – in the Passar model, goods data and transport data are deliberately kept separate. Related terms: Passar, BAZG, goods declaration (Switzerland), transport declaration, MRN, activation, e-dec. As of: June 2026.

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⚡ Current 2026

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Passar replaces E-dec and NCTS. Passar 1.0 (export) is live, Passar 2.0 (import) starts from Q2 2026. Roadmap, ePortal registration, deadlines and FAQ — all on one page.

Passar 1.0Passar 2.0 → Q2 2026Passar 3.0 → Q2 2027

Passar Hub →Declar Info

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GDRN (Goods Declaration Reference Number)

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Related Terms

Transport declaration (Passar)

Goods Declaration Reference Number (GDRN)

Movement Reference Number (MRN)

Goods Declaration Reference Number

Lot Number Tracking in Cold Chain Logistics

Transparency and Good Regulatory Practices

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

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