ATA Carnet

The ATA Carnet is an internationally recognized customs document used for the temporary importation of goods, exempting them from the usual customs declarations, security deposits, and duties/taxes required for temporary import/export. It is administered by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and operates under the ATA Convention and the Istanbul Convention. It applies to goods temporarily imported for up to one year, such as for exhibitions, trade fairs, commercial samples, professional equipment, and sports goods. Use cases include: carrying exhibits to overseas trade shows, journalists carrying photographic equipment, bands carrying musical instruments, etc. Notes: The Carnet must be applied for at the chamber of commerce in the departure country, and is typically valid for one year; goods must be re-exported in their original condition, otherwise duties and taxes must be paid; it cannot be used for sales or leasing. Differences from other terms: The ATA Carnet differs from regular trade customs declarations and from the TIR Carnet (used for road transport). It simplifies customs procedures, reduces costs, and is an important tool for temporary import/export.