For decades, the Carnet ATA has been among international trade's most vital instruments for temporary exports. Introduced in 1963, the 'passport for goods' facilitates businesses worldwide with cross-border trade, sparing them from separate customs declarations or guarantees. An international guarantee system – carried in Germany by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) – ensures smooth and secure processes.

Modernisation Boost with Digitalisation

As of June 1, 2026, the fully digital Carnet marks a new era. For the first time, the trusted system is fully digitalised. In a first phase, 30 countries, including all EU member states, Switzerland, Norway, and the United Kingdom, participate. Carnet ATA records are managed digitally and accessed via a desktop version or app by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on smartphones or tablets. This significantly improves processes. Borders require no paper stamping; customs confirm imports and exports via QR code scans, accelerating handling, reducing errors, and enhancing transparency across the entire pathway. Businesses, Chambers of Commerce (IHK), and customs authorities alike benefit long-term.

Transitional Phase

The transition from analogue to digital is gradual. Initially, 30 out of 81 Carnet countries adopt the fully digital procedures; others will follow by end-2027. A clear cutover is vital: only Carnets issued from June 1, 2026, onwards can operate digitally – existing paper Carnets remain valid for their term.

Early adoption of digital Carnets is critical during this phase. Businesses using them from the outset can contribute practical experiences to refine processes. Feedback is channelled directly from IHKs to DIHK, facilitating enhancements.

Close Cooperation as a Prerequisite

Attaining the milestone 'digital Carnet' involved extensive national and international collaboration, especially within the DACH region. The national guarantee associations in Germany (DIHK), Austria (Wirtschaftskammer Österreich), and Switzerland (Alliance des Chambres de commerce suisses) aligned early, tested concepts, exchanged experiences, and devised viable solutions together. Training, pilot projects, practical tests with IHKs and businesses yielded valuable insights, now applied in live operations.

The Trial Now Follows

The technical and legal framework for the fully digital Carnet ATA is established. Practical application must identify areas for improvement. While paper and digital Carnets coexist, dual usage demands greater attention during the transition – an intermediate step toward universally digital customs processes worldwide.