Digital ATA Carnets

The future of ATA Carnets is going digital

From 1 June 2026, the UK, EU, Norway and Switzerland will begin the transition to Digital ATA Carnets (eATA) — a major step towards modernising international trade.

Instead of carrying a paper document, your Carnet will be securely available via a mobile or desktop app, allowing you to manage and present it digitally at Customs.

This initiative is part of a global programme led by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Customs Organization (WCO).

What this means for your business

• No physical paperwork for digital destinations
• Real-time access to your Carnet via app or desktop
• Faster processing at Customs using QR codes
• Zero risk of loss or damage to documents

During the transition period, paper and digital Carnets will run side by side.

How Digital ATA Carnets work

The application process remains the same via our eCert platform.

Once issued:

1. You receive a Carnet ID and PIN
2. Download the ATA Carnet app or use the desktop version
3. Prepare your trip within the app
4. Present a QR code to Customs for each movement
5. Receive confirmation of transactions digitally

For a step-by-step overview, download our Digital ATA Carnet guide.

Paper vs Digital – what to expect

During the transition:

• Paper-only destinations
  → You will receive a traditional paper Carnet
• Digital-only destinations
  → You will receive a fully digital Carnet
• Mixed itineraries
  → You will receive both formats and use each where required

Transition arrangements and flexibility at the border

During the transition to Digital ATA Carnets, UK, EU, Norwegian and Swiss Customs authorities will apply a flexible approach to help ensure there are no delays or disruption at the border. Digital countries will continue to accept paper Carnets where traders are unable to obtain a digital Carnet, helping to minimise disruption caused by technical issues or countries transitioning to the new system at different stages.

Paper ATA Carnets issued before 1 June 2026 will continue to be accepted until expiry, providing reassurance for businesses with existing documentation and mixed-format itineraries.

Working with freight forwarders

If your Carnet is handled by an agent:

• You can share your Carnet securely using the ID and PIN, or
• Provide QR codes directly for each movement

A Letter of Authorisation will be required for the forwarder to act on your behalf.

Digital ATA Carnet testing update

The UKNATACO testing phase closed earlier than planned on 17 May 2026.

The testing portal has now been locked, and all data submitted during the pilot has been removed.

ATA Carnet users are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new system by:

• Downloading the ATA Carnet app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, or

• Accessing the desktop platform here: 

     https://app-eur.atacarnet.iccwbo.org/login/

This will help ensure you are prepared ahead of the wider rollout.

Looking ahead

The launch in June 2026 marks the start of a global transition. Over time, Digital ATA Carnets are expected to become the standard worldwide, simplifying temporary exports for businesses.

For further details telephone one of our specialists on +44 0845 034 7200 or via email.