Export Declaration & ABD

Every export from the EU requires a correct customs declaration — and the paperwork takes time you cannot spare in day-to-day operations. Smart Zollagentur handles the electronic export declaration for you: digitally, reviewed by specialists, and confirmed within a few hours.

What is an export declaration?

An export declaration is the electronic notification to customs that must be submitted before goods leave the European Union. It is transmitted via the ATLAS system of the German customs authority. The declaration is legally required once certain value or weight thresholds are exceeded.

When do I need an export accompanying document (ABD)?

As a general rule, an export declaration is required when the value of the goods exceeds €1,000 or the weight exceeds 1,000 kg. There are also special cases: for goods subject to licensing (e.g., dual-use goods or armaments), the obligation applies regardless of value.

The export accompanying document (ABD) is the printed output of the approved declaration. It physically accompanies the shipment to the exit customs office at the EU external border. Without a valid ABD, freight forwarders and carriers cannot export the goods — and without confirmed exit, a VAT-exempt delivery to a third country cannot be evidenced.

How the online application works

1. Enter your data — you provide the consignor, consignee, goods description, values, and Incoterms in our online form. This typically takes just a few minutes.
2. Expert review — our customs specialists check your information for completeness and accuracy: HS code, procedure code, customs value, and quantity details.
3. ABD by email — after the declaration has been submitted to ATLAS, you receive the submission confirmation within an hour and the ABD after the customs examination period.

What data do we need?

• Consignor and consignee with full address and EORI number
• Detailed goods description with statistical commodity code (HS code / customs tariff number)
• Goods value in EUR and quantity (number of units and/or weight in kg)
• Type of packaging (pallet, carton, container)
• Delivery terms under Incoterms 2020 (e.g., EXW, FOB, CIF)
• Mode of transport (road/truck, sea freight, air freight, rail)

Pricing at a glance

An export declaration starts at €30 per declaration. The base price includes one tariff line (one HS code position). Each additional tariff line is charged at €5. All prices are net, excluding statutory VAT. Full pricing details on the pricing page.

To start your first declaration, log in to the customer portal. There you can create orders, track the processing status, and download your documents.