Customs Self Declaration
When shipping personal goods internationally without a professional mover, your consolidated list (also called a packing list or inventory) must be detailed enough to satisfy customs requirements—especially for France—but it doesn’t need to be as exhaustive as a professional mover’s itemized inventory. Here’s what you need to know:
1. French Customs Requirements
France, as part of the EU, requires a detailed inventory for imported personal effects to:
- Assess duties/taxes (though used personal items are usually duty-free if you’re relocating).
- Verify compliance (e.g., no restricted/prohibited items).
- Prevent commercial shipments from being misdeclared as personal effects.
Key Details to Include:
- Description of each item or group of similar items
- Example: “10 paperback books (used),” “5 ceramic coffee mugs (souvenirs),” “3 wooden hand-carved figurines (6-8 inches tall).”
- Quantity (e.g., “2 boxes of books,” “12 mugs”).
- Approximate value (in EUR or USD; used items should be valued at current, depreciated worth).
- Condition (used/new).
- Material (if relevant, e.g., “wooden,” “ceramic”).
- Purpose (e.g., “personal memorabilia,” “household goods”).
Grouping Similar Items:
- You can group low-value, similar items (e.g., “20 assorted paperback books,” “15 notebooks/sketchpads”).
- Avoid vague terms like “miscellaneous” or “assorted goods.”
2. Sample Consolidated List Format
Sample Consolidated List for Personal Goods
Category
Description
Quantity
Value (EUR)
Condition
Books
Used paperback novels, various authors
20
80
Used
Sketchpads
Mixed media sketchpads, A4 size
5
25
Used
Coffee Mugs
Commemorative ceramic mugs, assorted designs
8
50
Used
Handcrafted Curios
Wooden hand-carved figurines, 6-8 inches tall
3
75
Used
3. What to Avoid
- Overly vague descriptions (e.g., “box of stuff”).
- Undervaluing items (customs may reassess and apply penalties).
- Omitting restricted items (e.g., alcohol, certain foods, or items requiring special permits).
4. Supporting Documents
- Copy of your passport (to prove relocation status, if applicable).
- Proof of residence in France (e.g., lease, utility bill) if claiming duty exemption.
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB) from your freight forwarder or shipping company.
5. Tips for Self-Packing
- Label boxes clearly with their contents and box number (e.g., “Box 1: Books & Sketchpads”).
- Keep a copy of the list for your records and provide one to your freight forwarder or shipping agent.
- Check with your shipping company for any additional requirements (e.g., weight/volume limits, packaging rules).
6. French Customs Process
- Your shipment will be inspected upon arrival in France.
- If your list is clear and matches the contents, customs will usually release your goods quickly.
- If discrepancies are found, you may face delays, additional fees, or requests for more documentation.
Final Note: While you don’t need a professional mover, a freight forwarder can still help with customs clearance and ensure your list meets all requirements. If you’re unsure, many forwarders offer consulting services for self-packers.
Would you like a template for your consolidated list, or do you need help estimating values for used items?