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Numerous laws and standards govern the import and export of equipment, therefore it is crucial to abide by all of them when those things are being transported. If you don’t, you might face steep fines or even have your goods seized.
If for the purposes of filming you want to import audio or video equipment that you will subsequently return to your country after the work is completed, then it is a matter of temporary import/export of goods.
This type of import is treated differently because the goal is to avoid taxes and customs clearance costs with some assurance that the goods will subsequently be re-exported from the country.
An ATA Carnet is often recommended for use by film and TV companies shooting abroad. It is a physical document that you take with your goods when you are temporarily moving them out your country and into other countries, and it significantly reduces the difficulties
To obtain an ATA Carnet the foreign producer must provide a list of all the audiovisual equipment, their invoices and a deposit, if necessary.
However, it is important to note that you must not list any disposable or consumable equipment on your Carnet, such as non-rechargeable batteries, pens, paper, glue, bin bags, etc. These are not permitted on ATA Carnets, as there can be no guarantee that they will definitely return in the same condition.
The deposit amount varies according to the equipment’s country of origin.
Also there are countries which do not have the obligation of paying a deposit, but the relevant procedure must be followed at the destination country’s consulate.
- Each carnet is valid for a temporary period of time, and the equipment must be taken back.
- Goods cannot be sold or exchanged.
- The same goods must be re -exported to the country of origin before expiration.
- Goods cannot be rented, transferred or destroyed without the permission.
- If we are talking about goods for which there is a ban on import/export, it is necessary to have an adequate license or permit.
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Transport and Logistics
