The electronic ATA Carnet comes into force in 30 territories in Europe to streamline customs procedures

CUSTOMS DIGITALIZATION AND TEMPORARY EXPORTS

Since June 1, 2026, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland have been operating with the new eATA, a digital tool based on QR codes that will progressively replace the paper format and facilitate the temporary transfer of goods and equipment abroad.

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The modernization process of foreign trade has taken a fundamental step with the entry into operation of Electronic ATA Carnet (eATA)which is already fully operational in some thirty territories, covering all countries of the European UnionAs well as United Kingdom, Norway and SwitzerlandThis measure marks the beginning of a profound digitization in the management of this customs document, which is essential for carrying out temporary exports with guarantees and speed.

The traditional physical customs transit document will begin to be gradually replaced by this new technological alternative. The system digitizes operations through a mobile application that generates QR codeswhose primary objective is to minimize dependence on paper and significantly reduce waiting times at borders.

The transition between the two models, however, will be gradual. Authorities have planned a phased implementation over the years. 2026 and 2027During this adaptation period, the physical and electronic formats will coexist, allowing companies to continue using the conventional paper ATA Carnet while customs in each region complete their integration into the digital environment.

A boost to competitiveness at trade fairs and missions

El eATA It is designed with a strategic focus on those companies that, within their strategy of CapabilitiesThey need to temporarily move professional teams, work materials or goods abroad for display at international fairs and exhibitions.

Adopting this new model brings a range of competitive advantages to the international Business of the companies, among which the following stand out:

• An faster customs procedures, eliminating bottlenecks.
• A drastic reduction in the administrative burden and the use of physical documentation.
• A drop in incidents arising from traditional document management.
• Optimized control and monitoring of each operation.
• An greater traceability in all international movements of goods.
• A strong push towards more sustainable and digitized corporate processes.

With the implementation of this system, international customs procedures are undergoing a key modernization. User companies can now begin familiarizing themselves with the platform and assess their adoption during the upcoming transition period to maintain their competitiveness.

In this changing scenario, entities such as Madrid Chamber of Commerce They play a supporting role, accompanying companies in their international expansion and offering specialized advice for the correct management and processing of both ATA and CPD documents.