Customs Clearance Valuable Goods: HS Codes, Certificates, and Permits
Our team coordinates the complete customs clearance for Valuable Goods. From classification and HS codes to permits, certificates, and declarations. AEO-F certified under permit number NL AEOF 0002440.
Customs clearance for Valuable Goods requires various rules and certifications. 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 Valuable Goods and knows the specific pitfalls and permits applicable to this type of goods.
Below you will find the key customs aspects of Valuable Goods: typical HS code examples, import duty indicators, required certificates, and the Aircargo.nl permits that provide the most benefits for these goods.
Specific Attention Points for Valuable Goods
Valuable goods — jewelry, precious metals, art, watches, banknotes — require enhanced security at every customs step. Customs conduct value inspections more frequently, may require a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) for classification, and can check diamond certification under the Kimberley Process. For art, a provenance file is essential — imports of so-called human-made and archaeological objects are subject to stricter rules under EU 2019/880 since 2025.
HS Code Examples for Valuable Goods
Chapter 71 — precious metals and jewelry. 7102.31 diamonds, 7108.12 gold (uncoined), 7113.19 gold jewelry, 7114 table silver. Art chapter 97: 9701.10 paintings, 9706.00 antiques over 100 years old. Watches: 9101.11. Banknotes: 4907.00.
We 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
Gold (uncoined): 0%. Rough or polished diamonds: 0% (free trade). Processed jewelry: 2.5–4%. Watches: 4.5% (for mechanical), up to 9% for specific types. Art and antiques: 0% for original artworks over 100 years old. VAT: 21% (some art categories 9% on first sale).
Our customs specialists 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.
SSE (Special Model Sealing) enhances seal integrity for valuable shipments — important in high-value transit. CWP (customs warehouse) for strategic storage under duty suspension. CGU (Continuous Guarantee) covers the guarantee customs may require for high values — avoiding a separate bank guarantee.
Inspections and Controls
High risk of physical inspection for valuable shipments — both for value verification and origin authentication. Diamonds are checked for Kimberley certification, art for provenance documentation. Our AEO-F status and SSE permit (special model sealing) reduce the standard inspection rate.
Common countries for Valuable Goods
FAQ regarding customs clearance of Valuable Goods
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.
Start now with customs clearance for your Valuable Goods?
Request a quote for customs clearance of Valuable Goods. We respond within 4 hours with a fixed price.