What Is A Digital ATA Carnet?
An ATA Carnet is often described as a “passport for goods”. It allows businesses to temporarily take goods into other countries without paying the usual import duties and taxes, provided those goods are returned within the permitted timeframe and in the same condition.
A traditional ATA Carnet is usually supplied as a paper booklet. When travelling across international borders with your goods, the carnet is presented to customs officials, who process and stamp the relevant sections of the document.
A Digital ATA Carnet, also known as an eATA Carnet, brings this process into a digital format. Instead of relying solely on a physical booklet, carnet information can be stored electronically on a mobile device, with customs transactions recorded digitally rather than through physical stamps.
The move towards digital carnets is being developed through the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), working alongside customs authorities and national guaranteeing organisations around the world.
How Do Digital ATA Carnets Work?
Digital ATA Carnets will be managed through the ATA Carnet app, allowing carnet holders to keep their documentation on a mobile device rather than relying on a traditional paper booklet.
The process generally works as follows:
- The issuing organisation creates the Digital ATA Carnet and provides the holder with a unique reference number and PIN.
- The carnet holder downloads the ATA Carnet app and imports their carnet using the details provided.
- Before crossing a border, the holder prepares the required digital declaration.
- Customs officials scan or verify the declaration when the goods are presented.
- Once processed, a digital confirmation is recorded against the carnet.
Moving to a digital system makes it easier for businesses to manage their ATA Carnet while travelling internationally. Rather than carrying paper documentation and keeping track of physical vouchers and customs stamps, transactions can be recorded electronically through the app.
This creates a more convenient way to manage carnet movements and maintain a digital record as goods travel between participating countries.