Customs

Goods subject to declaration and goods exempt from declaration

Red or green exit

If you have no goods in your luggage, or only goods that are exempt from declaration, use the exit marked in green.

If you are carrying goods or cash (for example, banknotes, cheques, gold coins or gold bars) in excess of the duty-free allowance – that is, more than 10,000 euros – you must use the exit marked in red. These items must also be declared in writing.

Declaration of goods upon entry

Goods intended for trade or commercial use must always be declared – regardless of their value. This also applies to products that are prohibited or subject to restrictions. These include, for example, narcotics, weapons, ammunition and protected animal and plant species.

Customs provides detailed information on these restrictions.

Anyone who breaches import regulations or fails to declare cash may face penalties. High fines may be imposed – and in serious cases, even custodial sentences.

Important: Counterfeit goods are no trivial matter either. Even small quantities will be seized by customs – and criminal proceedings may follow.

Customs checks on departure

There are no routine customs checks when leaving Germany. Nevertheless, the following applies:

Goods subject to applicable export restrictions must always be declared. This also applies to cash in amounts of 10,000 euros or more.

Please note: Customs carry out random checks.

Our advice: If you are unsure whether an item requires authorisation, you should contact your nearest main customs office in good time – ideally before you set off on your journey.