Whether making music, or filming a performance, going to Europe has become a little more complex but doesn’t need to be confusing.
A few documents on importing goods to the EU are around which bring end use and temporary use onto the same page. This includes entries on EU websites and a few others which have misinterpreted the content.
The key point is that the two have no relation to each other. They may both be ways of taking goods into a country but for different purposes.
The Reality Of End Use
End use is a customs procedure which allows goods to be brought into and freely circulate within an EU country at reduced, or zero duty rates.
This is available for a quite narrow range of items. Products for the construction, maintenance and repair of aircraft, or certain ships and drilling platforms, along with weaponry for use by, or on behalf of EU member states.
Importers must first acquire end use authorisation and need to be based in EU states to do so, transfer of rights is possible but limited. Goods must be put to the prescribed use within an agreed period of time.
As the categories involved suggest, there is no intention for this scheme to be used for anything other than permanent transit.
Facilitating Temporary Use
Temporary admission to the EU allows goods to be brought in for a limited period, normally up to 12 months. There are secondary approaches which involve reduced duties but zero duties is the aim with the main temporary import scheme.
This is the use of ATA carnets, given as the core approach by EU customs. The example cases they offer are for trade fairs and public performances, although in reality most non-perishable goods can fit onto a carnet.
Conditions of use are that the carnet holder should not be an EU based person/business and a guarantee of duty payment if required is provided. The goods should be clearly identifiable and not for sale, or likely to be altered.
In essence, customs offices across the EU support the standard, international ATA carnet scheme, of which they are all members.
Between The UK And The EU
Just to confirm again, end use certification can not be used for temporary import in either direction. The ATA carnet scheme can be used both ways and has been successfully in use since the finalisation of Brexit.
As an existing, international agreement which had no connection to Brexit negotiations, this was unaffected by political, or practical views, or changes.
Carnets are an added requirement compared to a few years ago but one which is reliable and straightforward. If we can help with an Ata Carnet for the EU, by all means get in touch with our friendly team.