• What is an electronic export declaration?

Export procedure for goods with a value of less than 1,000€

In principle, exports to a third country or EFTA state with a goods value of less than 1,000€ do not require an export declaration. Only three copies of the commercial or pro forma invoice and, if applicable, a declaration of origin must be enclosed with the shipment.

Export procedure above a goods value of 1,000€. 

Export procedure for goods with a value of 1,000€

When exporting to a third country or EFTA state with a goods value of 1,000€ or more, customs require an export declaration. This can only be submitted electronically. The exporter must register once on the ELSTER online portal website to ensure authentication with the IAA-Plus (online portal of the customs authority). Only after registration can the exporter apply for an export declaration on the IAA-Plus website. Once the export declaration has been submitted electronically, the customs authority sends the exporter the export accompanying document (ABD) required for the export, including the Movement Reference Number (MRN) as a PDF. The waiting time for the papers from the customs office with the MRN number can take up to 24 hours! The goods can only be transported via the shipping service provider once the documents have been received. 

Info: Only documents confirmed by customs (export accompanying document) with an MRN number constitute a final electronic export declaration. The documents must be clearly visible on the consignment.