Germany applies the EU relief for people who move their home from outside the European Union. The German federal service catalogue and the Bayernportal describe the steps for the declaration, called a Zollanmeldung für Übersiedlungsgut. O'Brien's Moving & Storage books overseas moves through Bekins and partner international carriers; this page covers what the German customs office asks you to show.
Who qualifies for Umzugsgut relief
The relief is for natural persons who move their habitual residence into the EU customs territory. The goods must belong to you or your family and be used the same way after the move. Your habitual residence must have been outside the EU for at least 12 months, though an exception exists if you can show you meant to stay abroad that long, for example with an employment contract.
Non-consumable goods must have been in use in your country of origin for at least 6 months. German customs can clear the goods if you take up residence in Germany, even if only temporarily.
The declaration and the paper behind it
The form is the Zollanmeldung für Übersiedlungsgut, form 0350, available from the Federal Finance Administration. Filing is free and written only. If you arrive with the goods, you hand the form to the customs office. If they ship, the declaration goes in an envelope attached to the parcel, and the parcel is marked Umzugsgut.
Proof of relocation can be a deregistration certificate from the foreign authority showing your time outside the EU, a German registration certificate, a rental agreement or personal documents. Customs may also ask for invoices or purchase receipts, and vehicles need proof of registration in the country concerned.
Timing windows
Processing at the customs office usually takes up to about one hour, according to the German service catalogue.
| Step | Rule published |
|---|---|
| Declare the goods | Within 12 months after the move |
| Import before you move | Possible with a security and a commitment to settle in the EU within 6 months |
| Keep the goods | No sale, loan or gift for 12 months after acceptance |
What does not qualify
Alcoholic products, tobacco, commercial vehicles and items used in business are excluded. Permitted items include personal effects, household linen, furniture, personal and household appliances, private vehicles, household supplies in normal family quantities, pets, portable instruments and professional tools you need for your work. Weapons, ammunition and protected species need permits or are banned, and a firearms owner's card is required to show ownership of a weapon.
Putting the O'Brien's inventory to work
German customs may ask for invoices or receipts showing ownership, and a room-by-room list makes those papers easy to find. O'Brien's prepares an itemized inventory and condition report before packing, plus an itemized written estimate. Both are part of the free in-home visit, which also brings 10 free heavy-duty boxes. Call 775-359-6683 or request a time at the estimate page.