Customs in Europe can be a nightmare if you aren't prepared. All kinds of U.S. companies do around-the-clock business in Europe, and there are a vast array of websites devoted to French customs regulations as well as those of hundreds of other European areas and provinces. European export and import regulations are area-specific, but they're easy to master with the right resources.
Consider the following to decipher the expanse of European customs regulations info:
1. Regulating customs in Europe
2. Area-specific Europe customs regulations
3. Travel forms and tariff resources to help you comply with EU customs regulations
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Comply with European import regulations, create big business in the U.S.
Imports from Europe account for a solid percent of international trade. U.S. companies can buy products made in Europe cheaply and offer them to U.S. consumers for usually less than similar products made here in the states. More often businesses who do trade with Europe specialize in products boasting the label "Made in Europe." Travel websites provide helpful information on European customs regulations.
I recommend: For the bottom line in EU customs regulations, or to track shipments of goods using the Movement Reference Number, visit the website of the European Commission's
Taxation and Customs Commission. Find more links using Work.com's
"Guide to Doing Business in the European Union (EU)."
Familiarize yourself with area-specific European customs regulations
European import duties differ from country to country. Different European countries emerge as trade leaders each year.
I recommend: VisaHQ.com's travel information proves valuable with custom regulations of
Belgium,
France,
Italy and
Spain.
Prepare yourself fully for customs regulations in Europe
No matter what the restriction for Europe customs, the U.S. documents strictly what comes into the borders. Whether your trip to Europe is for business or pleasure, make the transition from border to border run smoothly with the right customs forms. Before you buy or do business, know what you'll pay in tariffs. You might think you're getting a good deal by buying cheaply in Europe to sell in the U.S., but if the Europe import duty is high, transporting the goods may not be worth it.
I recommend: U.S. Customs and Border Protection's
traveler entry forms are available for download via their website. Find country-specific tariff and tax information for Europe and abroad with the
United States of America's Department of Commerce.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- In addition abiding by European import regulations, you'll need a visa to travel to and from Europe. Travelocs.com is a great resource for general travel information. You can also select a destination from their menu for all the forms you need for a visa application.
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