Receive binding tariff information

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.

• 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).

• 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.

• Artikel 6, 14 bis 19, 22 bis 37, 44 und 52 Zollkodex (EU-Verordnung 952/2013)
• Artikel 8, 11 bis 14, 19 bis 20, 22 und 252 der EU-Verordnung 2015/2446 mit Einzelheiten zur Präzisierung von Bestimmungen des Zollkodex der Union
• Artikel 8 bis 23 der EU-Durchführungsverordnung 2015/2447 zur Umsetzung des Zollkodex

• 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

Forms available: Yes

Written form required: No

Informal application possible: No

Personal appearance required: No

Online services available: Yes

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