The Digital ATA Carnet: What Businesses Need to Know Now
The world of customs is becoming more digital – step by step. The digital ATA Carnet is an upcoming change affecting many businesses that temporarily move goods across borders. Whether it’s trade fair goods, professional equipment, or product samples, the ATA Carnet is and remains a key instrument for the international movement of goods.
However, the introduction of the digital Carnet brings new questions, new procedures- and a transition phase that requires special attention. We’ll break down what’s important right now and how companies can ensure they’re compliant with customs regulations.
From Paper to Digital: Managing the Transition Period
The traditional paper ATA Carnet has been used successfully for many years. Currently, the digital ATA Carnet is being introduced alongside the paper version and tested internationally. Starting June 1, 2026, the digital version will be legally binding in the EU, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Norway.
Important to note:
The paper Carnet will not be abolished abruptly.
Instead, we are in a transition period where both formats exist in parallel. In current practice, the following still applies:
- The paper ATA Carnet must be presented to customs and cleared first.
- The digital Carnet complements the process – but does not (yet) fully replace it.
This parallel operation is at the heart of the current challenge.
Two systems, one process: Why clarity is crucial now
When two systems run side by side, complexity increases. This is especially true in the customs environment, where even the smallest deviations can have significant consequences.
In practice, this means:
- Greater need for internal coordination
- Clear communication with drivers
- Smooth handoffs to freight forwarders, customs service providers, and partners
- Clear responsibilities
What matters is not whether a Carnet is digital or on paper – but how clearly and securely the entire process is organized.
This is because inconsistencies between the digital and paper-based versions can lead to:
- inquiries from customs authorities,
- delays at the border,
- customs-related objections,
- and financial risks.
The digital ATA Carnet is not purely an IT issue
Even if the term “digital” suggests otherwise: The digital ATA Carnet is primarily a matter of process and responsibility.
Companies should address the following now:
- who manages the Carnet,
- who is responsible for which steps,
- and how information is kept consistent.
Our experience in day-to-day customs operations shows that companies which review and clearly define their processes early on significantly reduce friction in their daily operations.
Questions companies should be asking themselves now
To navigate the transition period successfully, we recommend actively addressing the following points:
- Are we affected by the digital ATA Carnet – directly or indirectly through service providers?
- Is it clearly defined who manages the Carnet and is responsible for it?
- Do all parties involved know when paper documentation is still mandatory?
- Are digital and paper-based entries clearly identical?
- Is it known which errors can have customs or financial consequences?
The clearer the answers to these questions are, the more smoothly the processes will run- even under time pressure.
Your partner for customs-compliant ATA Carnet processes
At the ZUFALL logistics group, we support you as your customs service partner in
- understanding the technical aspects of the digital ATA Carnet,
- setting up structured transition processes,
- clearly defining responsibilities,
- and ensuring customs compliance in collaboration with all parties involved.
We don’t think in terms of individual cases, but rather in terms of robust, practical workflows that function in the real-world logistics environment.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Digital ATA Carnet
What is a digital ATA Carnet?
The digital ATA Carnet is the electronic version of the previous paper Carnet for the temporary import and export of goods. The goal is more modern and efficient customs clearance – with fewer paper-based processes in the long term.
When will the digital ATA Carnet become mandatory?
Starting June 1, 2026, the digital ATA Carnet will be legally binding in the EU, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Norway. A transition period with parallel use is planned.
Will the paper ATA Carnet be phased out?
No, not immediately. During the transition period, the paper Carnet will remain mandatory and must be processed first. The digital Carnet complements the process.
Do companies need to act immediately?
Companies should prepare now: review processes, clarify responsibilities, and ensure that all parties involved are informed about the transition rules.
What risks exist during the transition phase?
Inconsistencies between the paper and digital versions, unclear responsibilities, or missing information can lead to delays, additional charges, or customs-related consequences.
How does ZUFALL support the digital ATA Carnet?
We provide expert guidance on the digital ATA Carnet, analyze existing workflows, restructure processes, and ensure customs-compliant collaboration throughout the entire transport chain.
Be Prepared, Not Caught Off Guard
The digital ATA Carnet is an important step toward modern customs processes. However, success depends not on technology, but on clear processes, accountability, and experience.
We’re here to guide you through the process- personally, competently, and with an eye for the big picture.
