Receive binding tariff information

In order to simplify the clearance of goods upon import into the European single market, you can apply for a binding tariff information (BTI) beforehand.

The countries of the European Customs Union regulate the import of goods into the internal market in the "Common Customs Tariff". The various goods are classified in this tariff and given a code number, which determines, among other things, the rates of duty and the documents required for clearance.

Binding tariff information (BTI) provides legally binding information on the code number under which goods are to be classified in the Common Customs Tariff. The information enables you to calculate in good time the import duties that will be levied when importing goods from a third country into the EU and to obtain any necessary documentation. This facilitates your operational calculations and speedy clearance.

Customs tariff decisions that have already been issued are published in a common European database. You can view these decisions via the European Commission's database "European Binding Tariff Information" (BTI). Confidential details of a decision are removed in the process.

• Online application for binding tariff information
• If necessary, you must
  • illustrations, data sheets or descriptions of goods in electronic form and
  • samples or specimens of the goods to be examined.

Forms available: Yes

Written form required: No

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance required: No

Online services available: Yes

• Your application must relate to an actual intended activity in connection with the international movement of goods.
• You prove this by specifying in the application whether the BTI is to be used for an import of goods, export of goods or a special procedure (for example, customs warehouse).

• Appeal
• Detailed information on how to file an appeal can be found in the appeal instructions of your BTI decision.
• Action before the Tax Court

You can usually obtain a binding tariff information electronically. To request a binding tariff information:

• Access the Customs Citizen and Business Customer Portal.
• If you do not already have a user account, follow the instructions to create a citizen, user or business customer account. After reviewing and approving your information, you will be able to use your account.
• Complete the online application for a binding tariff information, add attachments if necessary, and submit the application.
• You will receive a confirmation of receipt with a transaction number and an application accompanying document.
• You can use the application accompanying document to send samples or specimens of the goods to be examined to the main customs office in Hanover. Please note the instructions of the customs office in which cases samples or specimens are necessary.
• After your application has been processed, you will receive a notification in your electronic mailbox at the Citizens and Business Customer Portal of Customs.
• Please check your email regularly. An email will notify you when messages are received in your electronic mailbox.

To view previously issued tariff decisions:

• Access the European Commission's European Binding Tariff Information (BTI) database.
• Start a query by entering a specific country, BTI number, validity date, keyword, nomenclature code or description of goods.

A written request (customs form 0307) is only possible if the computer systems in your company or at the main customs office in Hanover are down.

There are no costs for issuing binding tariff information. If objectively necessary, the customs authority will charge you for expenses for goods analyses, sample appraisals or the return of samples.: Fee free of charge

If you only need non-binding tariff information, you can contact the Central Information Office of Customs.