CustomsWorldwide

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Worldwide. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


21. Customs

Customs is the government authority responsible for controlling goods entering or leaving a country or customs territory. In road traffic, a customs checkpoint is a place where drivers may be required to stop so officers can inspect the vehicle, luggage, cargo and relevant documents.

Customs controls may take place at borders, ports, ferry terminals, airports or inland control locations. Drivers must follow all traffic signs, lane signals, barriers and instructions from customs officers. Declaration requirements depend on the countries involved and on the type, value, quantity and intended use of the goods being carried.

Douane checkpoint. (Haute-Savoie, France)
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
What is customs?

Customs is the government service that controls goods entering or leaving a country or customs territory, collects applicable duties and taxes, and enforces restrictions on prohibited or regulated goods.

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs controls; EU example

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs declarations; EU example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C II.7, customs stop sign; sign-system reference

What is a customs checkpoint?

A customs checkpoint is a control point where drivers and passengers may be required to stop, declare goods and present documents. Vehicles, luggage and cargo may be inspected in accordance with local law.

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs controls; EU example

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs declarations; EU example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C II.7, customs stop sign; sign-system reference

How can you recognise a customs checkpoint?

It may be indicated by signs displaying words such as Customs, Douane, Zoll or another local-language equivalent. Barriers, traffic lights, lane arrows and instructions from officers may also control access.

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs controls; EU example

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs declarations; EU example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C II.7, customs stop sign; sign-system reference

Must you stop at a customs sign?

Yes, when the sign or officer requires it. Reduce speed, enter the indicated lane and stop at the line, barrier or place shown.

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs controls; EU example

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs declarations; EU example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C II.7, customs stop sign; sign-system reference

What rules apply to commercial cargo?

Commercial goods normally require customs documentation and may be subject to duties, taxes, inspections, permits, origin rules and transit procedures. The driver must carry the documents required for the shipment.

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs controls; EU example

🔗 taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu • European Commission, customs declarations; EU example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C II.7, customs stop sign; sign-system reference

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