Customs Clearance Fruits & Vegetables: HS Codes, Certificates, and Permits
Aircargo.nl handles the complete customs clearance for Fruits & Vegetables. From classification and HS codes to permits, certificates, and declarations. AEO-F certified under permit number NL AEOF 0002440.
Importing and exporting Fruits & Vegetables involves many steps. An incorrect HS code, missing certificate, or forgotten preferential origin document can cause delays, additional charges, or denial by Customs. Aircargo.nl has daily experience with Fruits & Vegetables and knows the specific pitfalls and permits applicable to this type of goods.
On this page, you will see the key customs aspects of Fruits & Vegetables: typical HS code examples, import duty indicators, required certificates, and the Aircargo.nl permits that provide the most benefits for these goods.
Customs Considerations for Fruits & Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are subject to the plant passport scheme and the Common Health Entry Document (CHED) upon import. The NVWA inspects every shipment from risk countries. Additional measures apply for citrus, grapes, and brassicas to prevent Xanthomonas and other quarantine organisms. Arrival and customs declaration must be coordinated as tightly as possible to minimize freshness loss.
HS Code Examples for Fruits & Vegetables
Fresh vegetables — chapter 07: 0702.00 tomatoes, 0703.10 onions, 0704.90 cabbage. Fruit — chapter 08: 0803.90 bananas, 0805.10 oranges, 0806.10 grapes, 0808.10 apples. Some codes have seasonal import duties (variable tariffs according to GMO regulation).
Our customs specialists classify your shipment based on product description, composition, and use. For ongoing shipments, we can apply for a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) — valid for three years and legally binding.
Import Duties and Taxes
Import duties on fresh fruits and vegetables are highly variable and often seasonal. Many products feature an entry price system under the GMO regulation—specific tariffs apply below a minimum price. Tropical fruits (bananas, pineapples): 0-176 EUR per 1000kg. From LDC or GSP countries often 0%. VAT: 9%.
We calculate your exact amount due in advance based on customs value, origin, and any preferential trade agreements. Under our Deferred Payment Authorization (DPO), import duties and VAT can be settled collectively.
ACE (Approved Consignee) is crucial for fast clearance at Schiphol. DPO (Deferred Payment) helps importers with daily volumes to pay import duties in bulk. CGU covers the guarantee.
What to Expect During Inspection
High likelihood of physical NVWA inspections, especially for citrus, grapes, and herbs from risk countries (Egypt, Morocco, India, Vietnam). Pesticide residue suspicions lead to sampling. Our ACE permit allows direct transfer to our refrigerated facility, ensuring products remain in optimal condition during inspection.
Popular origins and destinations for Fruits & Vegetables
Frequently Asked Questions about customs clearance of Fruits & Vegetables
What do I need to start the customs clearance for my shipment?
You provide the commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill. We validate that all product-specific certificates are present and prepare the declaration under our AEO-F authorization.
How do you determine the correct HS code?
We send you a brief intake requesting product description, photos, and composition. Based on that, we determine the correct TARIC code (10 digits) or GN code (8 digits for export) and identify any preferential tariffs under free trade agreements.
How long does customs clearance take?
With a correct and complete declaration, clearance usually occurs within a few hours at Schiphol. For AEO-F certified declarations, the likelihood of Code 10 (clearance without further checks) is demonstrably higher. In case of a physical check, Customs aims for a response time of 120 to 150 minutes.
Can I pay import duties collectively?
Yes. Under our Deferred Payment Authorization (DPO), import duties and VAT can be paid collectively—monthly instead of per shipment. This offers a direct cash flow advantage for regular import flows.
What if I am not established in the EU?
We offer both direct representation (for EU-based customers) and indirect representation (for clients outside the EU) under our authorization as a customs broker. Read more on our representation page.
Ready to customs clearance for your Fruits & Vegetables?
Send us your shipment details for customs clearance of Fruits & Vegetables. We respond within 4 hours with a fixed price.