Customs guidelines for seamless travel experience

With the summer holidays beginning in Brandenburg today, the Main Customs Office Potsdam is reminding travelers to be aware of customs regulations to avoid any surprises upon their return.

The authority responsible for customs supervision in Potsdam is the Hauptzollamt Potsdam. For those traveling from non-EU countries or special areas, it's important to note that brought-in goods for non-commercial purposes can be imported into Germany duty-free per person within specific quantity and value limits.

Goods are considered carried if they are transported to Germany with the same means of transport as the travelers (e.g., bus, train, or airplane). This includes duty-free allowances for goods brought from a third country, a special area, or another member state, which only apply if these are carried by the travelers.

For tobacco products, the limit is not specified, but the importer must be at least 17 years old. Similarly, for medicines, there is no specified quantity or value limit, but the importer must also be at least 17 years old. Alcoholic beverages and alcoholic drinks also have no specified limit, but the importer must be at least 17 years old.

Substitutes for tobacco products, such as liquids for e-cigarettes, are only allowed for individuals aged 17 and older. To protect endangered animal and plant species, customs advises against buying travel souvenirs made from animals or plants.

When traveling within the EU, certain provisions and guideline quantities must be observed for goods like alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and substitutes for tobacco products, as well as coffee.

For more information on customs regulations, the customs website (www.zoll.de) and the online brochure "Travel Time - Your Way Through Customs" offer comprehensive information on travel regulations. For specific questions, contact the Main Customs Office Potsdam at [email protected].

It's also worth noting that if goods are sent ahead or afterwards, sent as freight, in the postal service, or transported by an express or courier service, different regulations apply.

Finally, when it comes to protected animals and plants, their trade, parts thereof, or products made from them are strictly regulated, and violations are pursued consistently. For more information on protected animals and plants, visit the website www.artenschutz-online.de.

Travelers are advised to familiarise themselves with these regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday season. Happy travels!