Products from non-EU countries enter without any tariff. Manufactured goods are charged a tariff of 3.5 percent. Goods such as passenger cars and office machines are charged duties of about 10 percent. Certain kinds of shoes and motor vehicles can attract a rate of up to 18 percent. Import licenses allow for the importation of products that have restrictions within the EU. Licenses issued are valid for four months in all member states. A license may not be valid in an EU state if the quota is limited to one or more EU countries.
If a visitor is moving from one EU country to another, he will need to pay duty for goods in only one country, which is the country of residence. The traveler is asked to fill out forms on his purchases. Regulations vary for each country but there will be a limit on the value. Duty is charged on anything over that limit. The own use rule states that a person can bring any quantity of goods as long as he can prove that the goods are for personal consumption and not for sale. For example, when entering the UK, an individual may be questioned for exceeding three kilograms of tobacco. If you cannot prove that the goods are for personal consumption, they are confiscated by customs and you may be prosecuted.
Restricted goods include firearms, explosives or narcotics (unless medically prescribed) and some types of fur. Quotas have restrictions on the quantities particular products coming from particular countries. For example, certain textiles from China's mainland have been established. Horticultural products are levied considerable tariffs and have an additional price restriction in the reference price system. Agricultural products may also face tariff quotas.
Customs officers ensure that all EU customs regulations are followed. They check to ensure that goods entering the region do not have false certificate of origin as some exporters falsify it to benefit from lower tariffs. They also ensure compliance with EU and international rules on protection of the environment. They are empowered to decline entry for endangered animals, treasures or sensitive technology.
