What Is a T1 Document? A Freight Forwarder's Guide to EU Transit Clearance
As a freight forwarder shipping across Europe, I often rely on the T1 transit document. This customs tool is key when moving goods across EU borders without paying import duties upfront.
So, what exactly is a T1? And why does it matter for your business? In this post, I’ll explain the basics of the T1 document, how it works, and how it can benefit your EU shipments.
What Is a T1 Document?
A T1 document is a customs transit declaration used when goods enter the European Union but are not yet cleared through customs.
Instead of paying import duties and VAT at the first EU entry point, the goods can travel under T1 status to another location where final clearance happens—often closer to your warehouse or customer.
This document falls under the Common Transit Procedure (CTP) and is tracked using the New Computerized Transit System (NCTS). That means your goods stay under customs control, with full traceability, as they move across borders.
Why Is the T1 Document Important for Your Shipment?
Here’s why the T1 document is so critical, especially if you’re shipping goods to final destinations like Germany, France, or Poland through entry ports such as Rotterdam or Hamburg:
Postpone Customs Duties
You don’t have to pay import duties and taxes at the port of arrival. Instead, you can clear the goods inland, where your logistics or customs setup may be more favorable.Smooth Cross-Border Movement
With a valid T1, goods can legally pass through multiple EU countries under customs control without repeated checks or formalities at every border.Avoid Port Congestion
Major seaports are often busy. T1 lets you move goods quickly inland, reducing storage fees and demurrage costs.Flexibility in Final Clearance Location
You can clear your goods at a bonded warehouse or customs office closer to your distribution center, saving time and money.
When Do You Need a T1?
You need a T1 document if:
You’re importing goods into the EU and want to clear them away from the entry point.
Your goods are arriving at a sea or airport, but your customer is located inland.
You’re moving goods through several EU countries before final delivery and clearance.
Example: You’re shipping goods from China into Rotterdam, but your final delivery and clearance are in Munich, Germany. Instead of clearing in Rotterdam, you activate a T1 and only finalize customs when the shipment reaches your bonded warehouse in Munich.
How to Apply for a T1 Document
T1 declarations can only be filed by licensed customs brokers or freight forwarders with the proper guarantees. At GB Intl Freight Agencies, we regularly arrange T1 documentation for our customers, ensuring shipments remain compliant and avoid costly customs delays.
To issue a T1, we require:
Commercial invoice and packing list
Bill of lading or airway bill
EORI number of the consignee
Destination customs office information
We also monitor the status of every T1 until it is officially closed at the final customs point.
What Happens If a T1 Is Not Closed Properly?
If a T1 document isn’t closed on time (i.e., customs at the final destination doesn’t confirm receipt), the shipment is treated as non-compliant, and the party that issued the T1 becomes liable for all import duties and taxes.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced freight forwarder who tracks the entire process from start to finish.
Conclusion: T1 = Control, Flexibility, Compliance
The T1 document is more than just paperwork — it’s your gateway to efficient, compliant logistics within the EU. Whether you’re importing high-value goods, distributing across multiple countries, or simply looking to avoid delays at busy ports, a well-managed T1 process can protect your supply chain and your budget.
If you need help preparing or managing a T1 document for your shipment, feel free to reach out. At GB Intl Freight Agency, we handle transit declarations across all major EU ports and ensure your cargo moves smoothly from entry to delivery.
