Reporting goods that leave a country

Export declarations

When goods are transported from one country to another, customs authorities usually require the shipment to be formally declared before it leaves the country of export. This process is known as an export declaration.

An export declaration is a submission to customs that provides authorities with detailed information about the goods being shipped, the parties involved in the transaction and the destination of the shipment. This applies to both standard export flows and re-export scenarios, where goods that have previously entered the EU are shipped out again. Depending on the nature of the goods, additional controls may apply, particularly in the case of controlled goods such as dual use items.

Why export declarations are required

Export declarations are an important tool for customs authorities to maintain oversight of international trade. They provide visibility into goods leaving a country and help authorities verify whether exports comply with regulatory requirements.

Information submitted through export declarations may be used to:

confirm the nature and classification of the goods
verify whether export restrictions, licenses, or controls apply
ensure compliance with sanctions or trade policy measures
contribute to official trade statistics

Because of these functions, submitting an export declaration is typically a legal requirement for goods being exported across international borders.

Information required in an export declaration

To process an export declaration, customs authorities require detailed information about the goods and the transaction behind the shipment. Much of this information is derived from the commercial and transport documentation accompanying the export.

An export declaration generally includes the identification of the exporter and the consignee, a description of the goods, and the correct tariff classification (HS code). It also contains the value of the goods, the country of origin, and information about the quantity and weight of the shipment. Transport details and the destination country are also included.

Depending on the nature of the goods, additional supporting documentation may be required, such as commercial invoices, export licenses, or certificates.