Navigating Cologne's Customs: How Long Does It Take?

Customs procedures can vary in duration, depending on factors such as transport mode, accuracy of paperwork, and the nature of the goods being transported. In Cologne, Germany, customs clearance at the airport can be as quick as a few minutes if there are no issues with declarations or random checks. However, for those with checked luggage or requiring further processing, the process can take longer. International packages entering Cologne have experienced delays, with some taking up to a month or more to clear customs due to bottlenecks in the system. To ensure a smooth customs process when travelling to or shipping items to Cologne, it is essential to be aware of the regulations and complete the necessary documentation accurately.

Customs checks at Cologne airport

The main customs office at Cologne Bonn Airport is located in Terminal 1 (staircase 2, level 0) and is open 24 hours a day. There is also a temporary counter and a service counter in Terminal 1 that is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and at night according to the flight schedule.

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The time taken to clear customs at Cologne Airport depends on several factors, including whether you are an EU or non-EU citizen, the volume of flights departing within the same hour as your flight, and the presence of checked luggage.

For EU citizens, the process is fully automated with face recognition scanners, and typically takes no more than 5 minutes. In contrast, non-EU citizens may experience longer processing times, particularly if they are subject to suspicion-less controls by the Bundespolizei after exiting the plane.

If you are not checking luggage, you can skip the baggage claim process entirely. However, if you are checking luggage, it is recommended to allow for additional time, as retrieving your bags could take up to 30 minutes.

Tips for Efficient Customs Clearance at Cologne Airport

To ensure a smooth and efficient customs clearance process at Cologne Airport, consider the following tips:

• Check the current waiting times on Twitter or other sources before your arrival at the airport.
• Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight if there are more than 5 flights departing within the same hour as yours.
• Familiarize yourself with the regulations for baggage and hand luggage, as these may vary between airlines.
• Ensure that you know what items are permitted and prohibited in your hand luggage to avoid any delays or issues during security checks.
• Contact your airline to confirm when the check-in desks for your flight will be open and when check-in closes.
• Utilize the pre-evening check-in option if offered by your airline.
• If you require assistance or have mobility needs, inform your airline, travel agent, or tour operator at least 48 hours before your flight.

Delays at customs

Customs procedures can sometimes cause delays in the delivery of packages. These delays can range from a few hours to days, weeks, or even months. There are several reasons why a package may be delayed or stuck at customs.

One common reason is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. It is essential to ensure that all customs forms are accurately filled out and that no false information is provided. In case of missing or incorrect information, customs officers may request additional documentation, such as a proforma or commercial invoice. Providing false information can lead to further delays and even legal consequences.

Unpaid duties or taxes on imported goods can also cause delays. During the customs clearance process, authorities calculate the duties and fees required for the import. Failure to pay these charges promptly will result in the package being held at customs until payment is made.

Another critical factor is the presence of dangerous or prohibited goods in the shipment. Customs authorities will block and confiscate any items that are illegal or restricted in the destination country. It is the sender's responsibility to ensure that the package contents comply with the regulations of the recipient country. Prohibited items may result in the package being destroyed if proper documentation is not provided.

The time taken for customs clearance can vary depending on the transport mode, such as air, road, rail, or sea. Additionally, different countries may have specific rules and procedures, which can impact the duration of the customs process. For example, shipping from Europe to the UK after Brexit may result in longer delivery times due to the additional customs requirements.

To minimise delays, it is essential to stay informed about regulatory changes and agreements between countries. Seeking expert insights and utilising online resources can help individuals and businesses maximise opportunities and ensure smooth cross-border transactions.

Paperwork and documentation

When travelling to or from Cologne, Germany, it is important to be aware of the necessary paperwork and documentation required by customs. Here is some information to guide you through the process:

Customs Declaration:

Before arriving at the customs checkpoint, you should prepare any necessary customs declaration forms. These forms provide details about the items you are carrying, such as gifts or commercial goods. If you are unsure about what to declare, it is better to err on the side of caution and provide a comprehensive declaration. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to delays or even penalties.

Prohibited and Restricted Items:

Be sure to familiarise yourself with the list of prohibited and restricted items for Germany. Dangerous goods, illegal substances, and items that do not comply with the country's regulations will be blocked by customs. It is your responsibility to ensure that your belongings do not include any prohibited items.

Duties and Taxes:

When importing certain goods, you may be subject to duties and taxes. These charges are calculated by customs officials based on the value and nature of the items. It is important to pay these duties promptly, as unpaid taxes can result in your package being held up in customs.

Proof of Identity and Travel Documents:

Ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents, including your passport or other accepted identification. These documents will be checked by immigration officials, and their absence or invalidity may result in denied entry. Keep them easily accessible throughout your journey.

Consignment Information:

If you are expecting a package or consignment to be delivered to you in Germany, be aware that it may be redirected to a customs office if there is missing or incorrect information. In such cases, you will need to provide additional documentation, such as an invoice or proof of payment, to the relevant customs office. This process can take several days, so it is important to act promptly to avoid further delays.

Online Resources:

Stay informed about the latest customs regulations and procedures by utilising online resources. The German Customs website provides essential information for individuals and businesses, including forms, factsheets, and contact details for specific enquiries. Keeping up-to-date ensures a smoother customs clearance process and minimises the risk of unexpected delays.

Prohibited goods

When travelling to Germany, there are several prohibited goods that you cannot bring into the country. Here is a detailed list of items that are prohibited or restricted for import into Germany:

Medicinal Products and Narcotics

You must meet certain requirements if you are bringing medicinal products as normal travel requisites. Any other medicinal products that fall under narcotics legislation require a doctor's certificate to be imported into Germany.

Instruments of Torture

The import of goods intended for inflicting capital punishment or torture on human beings is prohibited or requires special authorisation.

Dangerous Dog Breeds

To maintain public order and protect the general public, Germany has a ban on the import of specific breeds of dogs that are classified as dangerous.

Publications or Media Harmful to Minors and Unconstitutional Publications

Germany monitors and restricts the import of media, including publications, sound and image carriers, data storage devices, and images that contain content deemed harmful to adolescents or unconstitutional.

Counterfeit and Piracy

The import of imitation or counterfeit products, including rough diamonds, is prohibited. A special document, such as a Kimberley certificate, is required to import rough diamonds to prevent the trade in conflict or blood diamonds.

Animals and Plants

When importing animals and plants, it is essential to comply with species protection requirements, animal welfare regulations, and phytosanitary aspects to protect the local flora and fauna.

Weapons and Ammunition

The import of weapons and ammunition from a non-EU state into Germany is subject to specific authorisation requirements.

Food and Feedstuffs from Non-EU States

Food and feedstuffs imported from non-EU countries must meet the requirements of EU legislation and the criteria set by individual member states to ensure safety.

Fireworks

The import of unauthorised fireworks into Germany is prohibited under the Explosives Act and is punishable by law.

Cash and Other Means of Payment

When entering Germany from a non-European Union state, you must declare in writing any cash or other means of payment equivalent to 10,000 euros or more to the competent customs office.

Other Prohibited Items

• Explosives, toxic, or highly combustible materials
• Environmentally hazardous and radioactive materials
• Military-use products, such as sonar systems, laser, or aircraft parts
• Animal carcasses or live animals
• SIM cards, contractual-bound, or pre-paid telephone cards
• Unapproved medications or infectious substances
• Goods restricted by licensing rights or organisations such as ICAO, IATA, or the government
• Securities and similar documents, including credit cards, debit cards, letters from banks, and bank notes
• Shipments to Post Office addresses, PO Boxes, or Poste Restante without prior agreement

Contacting the customs office

The German customs website provides a comprehensive list of contact options for various queries. The website also offers a chatbot, TinA, which provides general information on specific topics related to the cross-border movement of goods, such as e-commerce and customs regulations for travel to Germany.

For general customs-related questions, such as those concerning customs or excise law, or undeclared work and unlawful employment, you can contact the Customs Information Centre.

If you have an ongoing customs clearance or a request for procedural simplification, you should contact the competent local customs office. The website provides a Customs Office List (COL) with relevant contact details and opening hours for all German customs offices. This list is published by the European Commission.

For enquiries about online applications, such as internet customs declarations, the Customs Portal, or the Minimum Wage Registration Portal, there is a central service desk comprising the Customs Service Desk and the Informationstechnikzentrum Bund (ITZ-Bund) Service Desk. The ITZ-Bund Service Desk can also assist with questions or problems related to the Automated Tariff and Local Customs Handling System (ATLAS).

For press enquiries, the German customs press office can be contacted via the general media contact.

Abfertigungsstelle Köln-Messe

• Phone: +49 221 28494-03
• Email: poststelle.abfst-koeln-messe@z...
• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 07:45 - 16:00, Friday: 07:45 - 14:30

Zollamt Flughafen Köln/Bonn

• Phone: +49 2203 95579-0
• Email: poststelle.za-koeln-bonn-flugh...
• Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 00:00 - 23:59

Frequently asked questions