EU Customs Duty Exemption for Household Goods Explained

Used belongings are not automatically duty-free. Prepare residence details, use history, inventory and the destination-specific application.

Distinguish the different time requirements

German customs guidance distinguishes a general 12-month prior residence condition from six months of prior use for durable goods. Exceptions and import timing need separate assessment. This summary is not an individual eligibility decision or a universal document list.

Prepare an understandable inventory

Keep package numbers, item groups, quantities and descriptions consistent. Disclose new purchases, commercial items and potentially restricted contents to the case handler. The planning inventory is a starting point; official fields and attachments may differ. Agree a secure document exchange rather than attaching identity copies to the first enquiry.

Request a pre-loading document review

Confirm the procedure, missing documents, responsible person and pre-transport steps in writing. Separate customs service charges from public duties or fees. If you do not meet relief conditions, assess total costs and the alternative process before fixing shipment dates.

Written-quote preparation checklist

• Collection and delivery cities, postcodes, floors and lifts.
• Packed inventory with unknown measurements and sensitive items flagged.
• Earliest collection and your available receiving window.
• Included and excluded packing, assembly, storage and other requirements.

Collect your details in the planning tool. Your prepared brief appears when you open the quote form, where you can review or remove it. Keep your reference after submitting. Our team will clarify missing details and the written service scope with you.

Check official destination guidance

Sources checked: 7 September 2026. Confirm personal eligibility and current documents for your case.

Zoll — Transferring residence