Customs. Simply cleared.
Gerlach – Clearing Customs Across Europe
As Europe’s largest neutral customs service provider, Gerlach ensures that your goods move smoothly and compliantly across borders. With more than 140 years of experience, 170 offices in 27 countries, and over 1,000 customs experts, we handle all aspects of customs – from import and export to transit, warehousing, fiscal representation, and consultancy. Wherever your trade takes you, Gerlach is by your side to make customs simple, secure, and efficient.
For more than a century, Gerlach has been the trusted partner for companies trading across Europe. We combine local expertise with a pan-European network to deliver seamless, compliant customs processes – independently of transport providers or freight forwarders. Our focus is solely on customs: simplifying procedures, ensuring compliance, and supporting businesses with reliable, transparent, and efficient solutions tailored to their operations.
Our Customs Services in Europe
Import Customs Clearance
We handle all formalities required to import goods into the EU quickly and compliantly. From preparing and submitting import declarations to calculating duties and VAT, our experts ensure your shipments are cleared accurately and released on time – so you can focus on your core business.
Export Customs Clearance
We manage export declarations, certificates of origin, and proof of exit for your goods leaving the EU. Whether you’re shipping within Europe or to global markets, our team ensures your export documentation meets every requirement and your shipments reach their destinations without delays.
Transit Services
Our transit solutions guarantee the smooth movement of goods across borders under customs supervision. We handle T1/T2 documents, provide guarantee coverage, and monitor your shipments in real time to prevent any delays or penalties.
AEO Application
Clearance Package Norway
Control Tower
Fiscal representation
Intrastat
VAT services
Gerlach Offices in Europe
With 170 offices across 27 countries, Gerlach is present wherever European trade happens. Our network connects the continent’s key logistics routes, ports, and borders – allowing us to handle customs procedures consistently, regardless of where your goods enter or exit the EU.
Whether you trade from Scandinavia to Southern Europe or between the EU and neighbouring markets such as the UK, Switzerland, or Norway, our teams coordinate seamlessly across borders to keep your goods moving.
Content Hub
Customs Glossary
Customs Knowledge Base
Latest Industry News
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does customs clearance cover?
Customs clearance includes all processes required to legally import or export goods across borders. It involves the preparation and submission of declarations, classification of goods under the correct tariff codes, calculation of customs duties and VAT, and coordination with authorities for inspections or document checks. Gerlach handles these steps end to end – ensuring accuracy, speed, and compliance with European customs law.
When do I need a customs broker or a customs agency?
A customs broker becomes essential whenever you trade internationally and need professional support to manage complex procedures or electronic filing systems. Gerlach acts as your authorised representative, submitting declarations on your behalf, communicating with customs offices, and ensuring that your goods comply with all legal and fiscal obligations. For many companies, this partnership saves time, money, and reduces compliance risks.
How are the costs of customs clearance calculated?
The cost depends on factors such as the type and value of goods, the number of tariff lines, required licences, and specific national procedures. In addition to customs duties and VAT, service fees may apply for document handling, inspections, or guarantee usage. Gerlach provides transparent quotations and cost breakdowns, so you always know exactly what is included and why.
What’s the difference between customs clearance and customs consulting?
Customs clearance refers to the operational handling of import, export, or transit procedures – the day-to-day process of getting your goods through customs. Customs consulting is strategic: it focuses on compliance management, process optimisation, AEO certification, and long-term improvement. Together, both services form a comprehensive approach to customs management.
Do customs procedures differ between the EU, the UK, and Switzerland?
Yes. The EU follows a harmonised customs framework (UCC), while the UK and Switzerland maintain independent systems with different declaration formats, VAT rules, and documentation requirements. Gerlach operates across all three regions, offering dedicated services and country-specific expertise to ensure compliance wherever your business trades.
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