What is Passar Hub and why is it important?

Passar Hub is the successor to the Swiss customs system e-dec Web. It is the new digital platform of the Swiss Federal Customs Administration for all customs processes in Switzerland. Migration from e-dec to Passar is phased (Passar 1.0–3.0) until 2026. Forwarders, customs agents and importers must register on the ePortal and adapt their processes.

What customs thresholds apply to parcels from China or USA to Germany?

For parcels/online orders from third countries (China, USA, UK): up to EUR 150 goods value: customs-free (but import VAT = 19% on goods value + shipping). From EUR 150: additional customs duties depending on commodity code (HS code). Travel threshold: EUR 300 (EU travelers), EUR 430 for air travelers. Gifts from private individuals: up to EUR 45 customs-free.

What is the EU customs reform 2026?

The EU customs reform 2026 includes several measures: 1) Abolition of EUR 150 customs threshold for online purchases (planned 2028), 2) Introduction of EU Customs Authority as new body, 3) Centralized EU Customs Data Hub, 4) Enhanced controls for e-commerce imports from third countries. Particularly affects platforms like Temu, Shein, AliExpress.

How does a customs declaration work in Germany?

In Germany, customs declarations are made electronically via the ATLAS system (Automated Tariff and Local Customs Processing System). For import customs declaration: commercial invoice, packing list, waybill (CMR/B/L), certificate of origin/EUR.1 if applicable. Customs valuation uses the CIF method (Cost, Insurance, Freight = goods value + insurance + freight to EU border).

What is an HS code and how do I find it?

The HS code (Harmonized System Code) is an internationally standardized goods classification code of 6 digits (in the EU with 8 digits as CN code, with 10 digits as TARIC code). It determines the duty rate, possible anti-dumping measures and import bans. Find it: via the EU TARIC browser (ec.europa.eu), the Swiss Tares system or with the help of a customs broker.

How do you clear a vehicle through Swiss customs?

Vehicle import Switzerland: 1) Import customs declaration (Form 13.20 A or via Passar), 2) Vehicle registration document from export country + COC document, 3) Customs duties (duty-free for private individuals who lived abroad for 12+ months), 4) VAT (7.7%), 5) Registration at the Road Traffic Office. Preferential duties apply for EU vehicles. CO₂ levy depending on emissions.

What is AEO and who can get certified?

AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) is an internationally recognised EU customs certification for businesses involved in international trade. All EU-established businesses involved in customs-related activities can apply: importers, exporters, freight forwarders, customs agents, warehouse operators, manufacturers, carriers. AEO confirms that the business is reliable, secure and compliant.

What is the difference between AEO-C and AEO-S?

AEO-C (Customs Simplifications): focuses on simplifications in customs procedures. Benefits: fewer document checks, faster customs clearance, reduced or waived customs guarantees, better conditions for bonded warehouses, inward processing etc. AEO-S (Security and Safety): focuses on supply chain security. Benefits: fewer physical security checks, priority status, advance notification on risk analysis. Both statuses can be combined (AEO-F = Full).

With which countries does the EU have mutual AEO recognition?

The EU has bilateral mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) for AEO with: USA (C-TPAT), Canada, Japan, China, Switzerland, Norway, Andorra, Iceland, UK, New Zealand and others. This means: EU AEO holders enjoy similar facilitations when entering these countries as in their own AEO programme. As of 2026: over 80 countries with bilateral or multilateral MRAs.

AEO Certification – Authorised Economic Operator

All resources on customs

Our editorial team keeps this hub continuously up to date: Passar/Declar, EU customs reform 2026, HS codes, TARIC, CBAM, customs thresholds and country guides. Sub-pages lead to detail articles, CMS entries to editorially reviewed expert content.

Topic pages & country guides

Germany Customs – Import
Customs Duty-Free Limits Germany
Vehicle Import – Customs
DECLAR – Swiss Customs System
e-Dec Web vs. DECLAR
DECLAR Preparation Without Risk
Common Misconceptions About DECLAR