Publication date: 11.06.2024
Customs procedures for moving personal belongings across the border
Introduction
Moving personal belongings across borders is a common practice for many citizens, in particular when traveling, moving to a permanent place of residence or returning home. Customs procedures for such cases have their own peculiarities aimed at simplifying the process and ensuring the legality of transportation. In this article, we will consider the legal aspects and practical issues of customs clearance of personal belongings of citizens when crossing the border.
Legal regulation
Customs Code of Ukraine:
- The Customs Code of Ukraine establishes general rules and procedures for customs control and clearance of goods, including personal belongings. The Code defines which items are considered personal and what benefits are provided when moving them across the border.
Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine:
- Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers detail the procedures for customs clearance of personal belongings, including the list of items that fall under the category of personal belongings and the rules for importation without paying customs duties.
International agreements:
- Ukraine is a party to a number of international agreements that regulate the movement of personal effects across borders, including the Convention on the Simplification of Customs Formalities.
Customs clearance procedure
Declaration of personal belongings:
- Citizens moving personal belongings across the border must fill out a customs declaration, which includes a list of items to be imported or exported. The declaration is submitted to the customs authority when crossing the border.
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- For items that are not subject to declaration (e.g., personal belongings that do not exceed the established norms), the procedure is simplified.
List of personal belongings:
- The category of personal belongings includes items used by a citizen in everyday life, such as clothing, footwear, hygiene products, appliances, books, sports equipment, etc.
- Special rules apply to the movement of valuable items (e.g., jewelry, antiques) and goods subject to special control (e.g., medicines, weapons).
Benefits and exemptions from customs duties:
- Citizens have the right to import a certain amount of personal belongings without paying customs duties. The importation rates depend on the type of transportation and the duration of stay abroad.
- Importation of items exceeding the established norms is subject to customs clearance with payment of the relevant customs duties.
Practical aspects
Simplification of the procedure:
- For the convenience of citizens, the customs authorities are introducing electronic declaration systems that allow them to fill out customs declarations online before crossing the border.
- The customs authorities also actively cooperate with the border guard service to ensure fast customs clearance.
Problematic issues:
- One of the main problems with customs clearance of personal belongings is incorrectly filled out declarations or lack of necessary documents. Citizens should be informed about the rules and requirements to avoid delays and fines.
- Particular attention should be paid to the movement of items subject to special control (e.g., medicines), which require appropriate permits and certificates.
