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Shipping Goods to Austria from the USA

Austria Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Austria, centrally located in Europe and part of the EU, is a popular destination for American exports and personal shipments. Whether you're shipping from the USA for business or personal reasons, understanding Austrian import regulations is key to avoiding customs delays and added costs.

This guide covers the steps and requirements for importing into Austria, including taxes, restricted items, documents needed, and how an experienced international shipping company can help reduce your international shipping cost and ensure affordable shipping.

Shipping to Austria from USA

Key Facts About Importing to Austria

Austria is a member of the European Union, adhering to all EU customs regulations.

All goods from outside the European Union (EU) are subject to customs clearance, duties, and Value-Added Tax (VAT).
The Austrian Federal Ministry of Finance manages Austrian customs.
Commercial importers need an EORI number.
Used household goods may be exempt from duties under relocation rules.

A professional international shipping company ensures compliance and helps estimate your total international shipping cost.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Austria

1. Obtain an EORI Number (For Commercial Shipments)

Businesses importing to Austria must have a valid EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number issued by any EU country.

Required to file customs declarations and track shipments.
Not needed for private individuals shipping personal items.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

For customs clearance, the following documents are commonly required:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice with product description and HS codes
Packing list
Customs declaration form (SAD – Single Administrative Document)
Certificate of Origin (if using preferential tariffs)
Import license (for restricted goods)

For personal effects:

Passport
Inventory list
Proof of change of residence to Austria
Declaration of non-commercial use

Documents must be accurate; inconsistent details can cause delays or additional fees.

3. Understand Duties, VAT, and Tax-Free Options

When shipping from the USA, the following taxes may apply:

Customs duties: Based on the EU Common Customs Tariff, typically 0–12%
VAT: Austria applies a 20% standard VAT, calculated on CIF value + duty
Excise duties: On items like alcohol, tobacco, and fuel

Used household goods may be imported duty- and VAT-free if:

The shipper is relocating to Austria
Items are used, personally owned, and not for resale
Shipment arrives within 12 months of relocation

An international shipping company can help calculate your estimated international shipping cost and identify applicable exemptions.

4. Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Austria follows EU rules for import restrictions. Commonly regulated items include:

Pharmaceuticals and supplements – Require EU approval
Food products – Must meet EU sanitary standards
Cosmetics and electronics – Subject to CE labeling requirements
Weapons, ammunition, and fireworks – Heavily restricted or banned
Animal products and plants – Require phytosanitary or veterinary certificates

Labeling Requirements:

Labels must be in German
Must include product name, origin, ingredients, safety warnings, and usage instructions
Metric units are required for all measurements
Expiry or manufacture dates for consumables are mandatory

Wood packaging (pallets, crates) must comply with ISPM 15 standards—heat-treated and properly marked.

Shipping Personal Effects to Austria

If you’re moving to Austria, you may qualify for duty- and tax-free import of personal effects.

To Qualify:

Items must be used and personally owned for at least 6 months
You are relocating your primary residence to Austria
Goods arrive within 12 months of your relocation date

Required Documents:

Passport
Proof of residency change (rental contract, deregistration from the U.S.)
Detailed inventory list
Declaration of non-commercial use

New or unopened goods may be taxed, even in shipments of personal effects.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Retail goods must comply with EU packaging and labeling standards:

Labels must be in German
Include product description, manufacturer, importer, origin, and CE mark (if applicable)
Foods and cosmetics must show ingredients and shelf life
Use the metric system for measurements
Wooden packaging must be ISPM 15 certified

Non-compliant shipments may be refused or held for inspection.

Who Can Help?

Work with a Licensed Customs Broker or International Shipping Company

A professional international shipping company or an Austrian customs broker can:

Prepare and submit EU customs declarations
Assist with EORI registration and product classification
Advise on exemptions for household goods
Coordinate delivery within Austria or other EU countries

This guidance ensures affordable shipping and accurate customs clearance, eliminating unexpected costs and delays.

Final Import Checklist for Austria

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	Commercial shipments	Required for all EU imports
SAD customs declaration	All shipments	Must be submitted through the Austrian customs
Customs duty (0–12%)	Most products	Based on HS classification
VAT (20%)	All goods	Calculated on CIF + duty
CE mark and German labeling	Consumer goods	Required for clearance
ISPM 15 compliance	Wood packaging	Required for crates and pallets
Relocation declaration	Used personal effects	Required for tax exemption

Conclusion: Shipping to Austria from the USA

Austria’s position within the EU provides a consistent customs process but requires close attention to documentation and labeling. Whether shipping commercial goods or relocating, proper planning is essential.

By partnering with a trusted international shipping company, you can reduce your international shipping costs, avoid delays, and ensure affordable shipping from the U.S. to Austria.