🇩🇪 Import Customs & Duties: Germany
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$0
Duty applies from $0
VAT / Sales Tax
19%
CIF value + duty. Reduced rate of 7% for books, food, and certain other goods.
Clearance Time
1-3 days
typical processing
Note: EU customs union; EORI number may be required. From July 2026: €150 duty exemption removed, flat €3 duty on all low-value goods
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0-3.7% | HS 85 |
| Clothing | 12% | HS 61-62 |
| Footwear | 8-17% | HS 64 |
| Food products | 0-26% | HS 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-4% | HS 84 |
| Cosmetics | 2.5-6.5% | HS 33 |
| Books | 0% | HS 49 |
| Toys | 0-4.7% | HS 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Import Duty Calculator
Customs Clearance Process
German customs (Zoll) follows EU Union Customs Code. Declarations via ATLAS electronic system. Since July 2021, all imports are subject to VAT via IOSS or at border. Duty exemption for goods under €150.
What to Actually Expect
German customs is efficient and well-organized. Electronic processing through ATLAS is fast. Deutsche Post/DHL parcels may require online customs declaration via the Zoll app. Expect 1-2 days for postal items, same-day for express shipments.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Item description, quantity, value, sender and receiver details
Packing List
Detailed description of contents in each package
Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23)
Required for postal shipments
Air Waybill (AWB)
Generated by the carrier when booking the shipment
Certificate of Origin
May be required for reduced duties (FTA/preferential rates)
Export/Import License
For restricted goods (electronics, medicines, chemicals)
Import License Requirements
Import licenses required for agricultural products under EU quotas, textiles from certain countries, military goods, dual-use items, and certain chemicals. Most consumer goods enter under general authorization.
Certificate of Origin
Preferential certificates (EUR.1, EUR-MED, Form A) for FTA partners. Non-preferential certificates issued by IHK (Industrie- und Handelskammer). REX system for registered exporters.
Learn more →Prohibited & Restricted Items
Prohibited
- xNarcotics and illegal drugs
- xExplosives and flammable materials
- xWeapons and ammunition
- xCounterfeit goods
- xCounterfeit currency and documents
Restricted (permit required)
- !Medicines and pharmaceuticals
- !Food and beverages
- !Plants and seeds
- !Electronics (lithium batteries)
- !Perfumes and cosmetics (volume limits)
Useful Links
Duty & Tax Estimate
Estimated import charges when shipping goods to Germany:
| Goods Value | Duty | VAT/Tax | Total Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50 | $2 | $10 | $12 |
| $100 | $4 | $20 | $24 |
| $200 | $8 | $40 | $48 |
| $500 | $21 | $99 | $120 |
| $1000 | $42 | $198 | $240 |
Estimates only. Actual duties depend on product category and HS code.
Popular routes to Germany
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Germany?
Germany has no duty-free threshold. All imported goods are subject to duties regardless of their value.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Germany?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Germany is 19%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty. Reduced rate of 7% for books, food, and certain other goods.
How long does customs clearance take in Germany?
Typical customs clearance in Germany takes 1-3 days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Germany?
To import into Germany, you typically need: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and customs declaration. Some goods may require a certificate of origin or import license.
What items are prohibited from import into Germany?
Germany prohibits the import of narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, and hazardous materials. Restrictions may also apply to alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and certain electronics.