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 ATLAS and how does it work?

ATLAS (Automated Tariff and Local Customs Processing System) is the electronic customs processing system of German customs. Importers, exporters and customs brokers submit customs declarations electronically via ATLAS. The system calculates customs duties, controls inspection processes and electronically releases goods after clearance. Prerequisite: registration with customs and ATLAS software or engaging a customs broker.

How is the customs value calculated in Germany?

Customs value in Germany/EU is calculated using the CIF method (Cost, Insurance, Freight): goods value (Cost) + transport insurance (Insurance) + freight to EU external border (Freight). Example: goods from China, goods value USD 1,000, freight USD 200, insurance USD 10 → customs value = USD 1,210 × current EUR exchange rate. The customs rate is then applied to this value.

German Customs Declaration: ATLAS, HS Code, CIF Method & EU Reform 2026

German Customs Declaration: ATLAS, HS Code, CIF Method & EU Reform 2026 | Freight-Academy™