To export to Norway from the UK, it is useful to be aware of a few regulations and steps to ensure that your transport goes smoothly.
1. Documents
It is important to remember that Norway is not part of the EU, so the freedom of movement of goods regulations that apply when transporting goods within the EU do not apply.
There are some extra documents that need to be filled out when shipping goods to Norway to ensure that there is no delay at the customs clearance stage. These forms will slightly vary depending on whether your shipment is commercial, or whether you are shipping personal effects.
If you are sending personal effects, you will need a Customs Declaration as well as a Packing List. The Packing List needs to have the values of the goods you are sending (the used value, not the value when new). The Packing List needs to describe what is the contents of each parcel you are sending.
If you are sending commercial goods, you will also need a Commercial Invoice that outlines the commercial value of the goods and a description of what you are importing into Norway.
2. Taxes and Duties
Norway is not a member of the EU, however it is a member of European Economic Area (EEA). Whilst this means that some goods, such as farm products, have free movement to Norway, most goods will still incur a duty fee.
Therefore, unless it is explicitly mentioned, you can expect to pay import duties in Norway on your commercial goods. There are no import duties that need to be paid if you are bringing in personal effects, however you have to declare that you are importing personal effects into Norway and have a proof of residence.
3. How do you make the cheapest price?
If you are sending one smaller shipment to Norway, it will often be cheapest to do this with a courier service. You need to ensure that the consignment is packed according to the courier’s packing guidelines, and that the size and weight of the parcels are within the courier’s limitations.
If you are sending goods on freight pallets, it is a good idea to plastic wrap the products onto the pallet to secure them. If you can package the goods on the pallet so that the height is below 110cm, you will be able to save money as the pallets will be able to be stacked. This is because the pallets will use up less floor space on the truck, and as a result the haulage contractor can carry more cargo on the trip.
It is important to make sure that if you are sending cargo, such as large machinery or components for construction, that these are packed safely. For example, items packed in wooden boxes can be handled safely by forklift or crane. It is also important to make it clear to the hauler what facilities are available for loading and unloading your cargo.
Shipping to Norway with Transporteca
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