GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Transit Accompanying Document

Freight forwarders and customs declarants use the Transit Accompanying Document (TAD) to cover goods travelling through foreign customs territories under a transit procedure.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/customs-4/customs-procedures-import-and-export/customs-procedures/transit_en

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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

Freight forwarders and customs declarants use the Transit Accompanying Document (TAD) to cover goods travelling through foreign customs territories under a transit procedure. The TAD carries the key consignment data – goods description, shipper, consignee, transit route, and the MRN (Movement Reference Number) – and accompanies the shipment either as a printed paper copy or is held electronically within the customs system. In the European NCTS, customs offices along the route use the TAD to verify transit status and, where necessary, order a physical examination of the goods. A consignment may generally not leave the office of departure without a valid TAD in place. The TAD is not the same as the TIR Carnet, which operates under a separate international transit regime backed by a guarantee chain.

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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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Transit Accompanying Document

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Related Terms

Movement Reference Number (MRN)

Movement Reference Number

transit accompanying document

NCTS Community Reference Number (CRN)

National Transit Procedure (nTV)

Proof of transit

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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