Question 1

What is customs clearance?

Accepted Answer

Customs clearance is the process by which a commodity is declared to the customs authorities upon import or export, so that the legal duties, taxes and fees can be calculated and paid. After customs clearance is completed, the commodity can circulate freely.

Question 2

When is customs clearance required?

Accepted Answer

It is required for all goods originating from or sent outside the European Union. For movements within the EU it is not required, as the customs union is in force.

Question 3

How much does customs clearance cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of customs clearance depends on the value and type of merchandise, the means of transport (sea, air, road), applicable duties and taxes, and the customs broker's fee.

Question 4

What are import duties and VAT?

Accepted Answer

Duties are the percentage of the CIF value (goods + transportation + insurance) while import VAT is calculated on the value of the goods together with duties (usually 24% in Greece).

Question 5

What happens if the goods are not cleared through customs on time?

Accepted Answer

The merchandise remains in a temporary storage warehouse, with additional storage charges and possible delivery delay.

Question 6

What is EORI and why is it needed?

Accepted Answer

The EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for all businesses that import or export outside the EU. It is issued by the AADE and identifies the business in the European customs system.

Question 7

What does “temporary admission” mean?

Accepted Answer

It is the process by which a product is temporarily imported (e.g. for exhibition, repair or demonstration) and will be re-exported. It offers a suspension of customs duties and VAT, provided that the conditions are met.

Question 8

What is "preferential origin" and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Preferential origin allows products from certain countries to be imported at reduced or zero tariffs, based on bilateral or multilateral trade agreements .

Question 9

What is the difference between importing goods and personal belongings?

Accepted Answer

In cases where goods are imported for commercial use, customs clearance & EORI are required, while in cases where an individual moving house wishes to import their personal belongings, exemptions from customs duties/VAT apply under certain conditions.