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Duty-Free Check: Moving Household Goods to Germany

Answer 6 short questions to see instantly whether your household goods can enter Germany duty-free as removal goods.

Question 1 / 6

1Why are you moving to Germany?

The relief applies to people moving their residence to Germany.

2Have you lived outside the EU (e.g. in Turkey) for at least 12 consecutive months before moving?

Rule: your normal residence must have been outside the EU customs territory for at least 12 consecutive months.

3Have you used the items for at least 6 months?

Relief covers items used for at least 6 months at your previous home; new purchases may be excluded.

4Are the items only for you and your family’s personal use?

Goods whose type or quantity suggests commercial use are excluded.

5When will your goods enter Germany?

Goods usually have to be declared within 12 months of moving, even in several shipments.

6Will you keep the items for 12 months after import?

Duty-free goods may not be sold, rented, lent or given away for 12 months.

What is transfer-of-residence relief?

If you move your normal residence from a non-EU country – such as Turkey, the UK or Switzerland – to Germany, you can usually import used household goods without customs duty or import VAT, provided certain conditions are met. The rule comes from EU Regulation 1186/2009 and applies similarly across the EU.

The main conditions

  • a genuine move of your residence to Germany
  • at least 12 consecutive months of residence outside the EU
  • items used for at least 6 months
  • declaration usually within 12 months of moving, even in several shipments
  • no selling, renting or transferring the goods for 12 months

Alcohol, tobacco and commercial vehicles are always excluded. The declaration uses form 0350, which our customs team prepares for you. Estimate your volume with the m³ calculator.

FAQ

FAQ: Duty-Free Check: Moving Household Goods to Germany

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Do I pay duty on household goods when moving to Germany?

If you move your residence, have lived outside the EU for at least 12 months and have used the goods for at least 6 months, they can usually enter duty-free.

What is form 0350?

Germany’s customs declaration for removal goods. We complete it for you.

Can my goods arrive before me?

Yes, usually with a commitment to move within 6 months and possibly a guarantee.