New simplifications in customs law will reduce red tape for businesses.
New simplifications for shipping and export declarations will take effect nationwide on July 1, 2026. The measures introduced by the General Customs Directorate (GZD) are part of ongoing efforts to reduce bureaucracy and are intended to provide significant relief, particularly for companies engaged in cross-border trade.
1. Transit Procedures: Greater Flexibility and Less Administrative Burden
The transit procedure (T1/T2/T2F) offers several practical simplifications:
- Language options for product descriptions: In the future, products may be listed in either German or English. Automated translations are also accepted, provided they are sufficiently clear.
- Elimination of duplicate checks: Descriptions of goods and commodity codes that have already been verified by the customs office of exit generally no longer need to be rechecked by subsequent offices—in particular by the authorized consignee.
- Simplifications in follow-on proceedings (T1): In many cases, product descriptions can be adopted as is, even in the original language of the preceding proceeding.
- Simplified disclosure of the recipient: The requirement to disclose the recipient is being relaxed, particularly if the recipient is located outside certain countries or is not yet known.
Additional concessions:
- Reduced stamping requirements in the business continuity procedure
- Simplified registration of household goods.
2. Export Procedures: Expedited Processing for Urgent Shipments
The export process is also being streamlined:
- In urgent cases, it will be possible in the future to request the provision of services outside the jurisdiction at short notice.
- The export declaration can be submitted immediately after acceptance—rather than only after the packaging and loading period has ended.
- No separate proof of urgency is required; simply stating that the matter is urgent is sufficient.
3. Classification and Practical Significance
The new regulations provide greater flexibility while reducing administrative burdens. They significantly streamline procedures, particularly in complex supply chains, for consolidated shipments, and in international transport.
Above all, it is important to note that:
- strengthening the principle of trust in the transit procedure,
- the reduction of redundant audit requirements, as well as
- greater flexibility in practical implementation.
Conclusion
With the changes set to take effect on July 1, 2026, the Customs Administration is sending a clear signal in favor of a more practical and efficient handling of transit and export procedures.
Companies should assess the extent to which they can benefit from the new simplifications and adjust their internal processes accordingly.
If you have any questions, our team will be happy to assist you.