Receive binding tariff information

You can usually obtain binding tariff information electronically. To apply for binding customs tariff information:

• Go to the customs citizen and business customer portal.
• If you do not yet have a user account, follow the instructions to create a citizen, user or business customer account. Once your data has been checked and approved, you can use your account.
• Complete the online application for binding tariff information, add any attachments 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 assessed to the main customs office in Hanover. Please note the instructions from customs as to when samples or specimens are required.
• Once your application has been processed, you will receive a notification in your electronic mailbox at the customs portal for citizens and business customers.
• Please check your e-mails regularly. You will be informed by e-mail when messages have been received in your electronic mailbox.

To view customs tariff decisions that have already been issued:

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

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

• Your application must relate to an actual intended activity in connection with the international movement of goods.
• You can prove this by specifically stating in the application whether the BTI is to be used for importing goods, exporting goods or a special procedure (e.g. customs warehouse).

• Online application for binding tariff information
• You may need to
  • illustrations, data sheets or descriptions of goods in electronic form and
  • samples or specimens of the goods to be assessed.

• Articles 6, 14 to 19, 22 to 37, 44 and 52 of the Customs Code (EU Regulation 952/2013)
• Articles 8, 11 to 14, 19 to 20, 22 and 252 of EU Regulation 2015/2446 specifying provisions of the Union Customs Code
• Articles 8 to 23 of EU Implementing Regulation 2015/2447 implementing the Customs Code

• Appeal
• Detailed information on how to lodge an objection can be found in the information on legal remedies in your BTI decision.
• Appeal to the tax court

Forms available: Yes

Written form required: No

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance necessary: No

Online services available: Yes

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

14.02.2022