If your business regularly sends equipment, samples, exhibition materials or professional gear temporarily overseas, there’s a major customs change arriving in June 2026 that’s worth preparing for.
The traditional paper ATA Carnet is beginning its move into the digital world.
The move towards digital ATA Carnets
ATA Carnets are commonly used for trade shows, events, technical equipment, commercial samples, film production, artwork and specialist tools. They allow goods to enter countries temporarily without paying import duties or taxes, provided the items return home again.
From 1 June 2026, the UK, EU, Norway and Switzerland will start rolling out Digital ATA Carnets, replacing much of the paperwork businesses have relied on for decades.
For companies temporarily moving goods internationally, this could make border crossings faster, simpler and far less stressful. Another benefit is that the digital system allows both the you and the issuing chamber to track the status of goods in real time, reducing the risk of “open” carnets that lead to unexpected tax claims.
Instead of carrying a physical carnet booklet and collecting customs stamps at every checkpoint, users will increasingly manage the process through a dedicated app or desktop platform. Customs officers will scan QR codes rather than process paper vouchers, while businesses will be able to track movements digitally in near real time.
The change is designed to modernise temporary exports and reduce one of the biggest frustrations businesses face when travelling internationally with goods: paperwork delays and lost documents.
What businesses should expect next
Importantly, paper carnets are not disappearing overnight.
This will be a phased transition, and many countries outside Europe are expected to continue using paper versions until at least 2028. That means some businesses may still need a combination of digital and paper carnets depending on their travel routes.
For now, the best preparation is simply understanding how the new system works and checking whether your regular destinations are joining the digital rollout in 2026.
If you or your team travels internationally with goods, it’s also worth becoming familiar with the new carnet app before the transition gathers pace.
For businesses already managing tight event schedules, exhibition deadlines or international installations, the shift to digital carnets could become a very welcome improvement, less paperwork, faster processing and better visibility throughout the journey.
If you’re unsure how the changes may affect your shipments or upcoming projects, our team is happy to help you plan the most efficient route forward. Contact us today.
