Shipping Goods to Bulgaria from the USA

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

Bulgaria, as a member of the European Union, has aligned its customs regulations with EU standards, making it relatively straightforward to ship goods from the USA. Whether you're relocating, sending personal items, or managing commercial cargo, understanding Bulgarian import procedures is key to avoiding unnecessary delays or fees.

This guide provides a step-by-step overview of importing to Bulgaria and how an experienced international shipping company can help reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping from the U.S.

Shipping to Bulgaria from USA

Key Facts About Importing to Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a member of the EU Customs Union, adhering to all standard EU customs rules and regulations.

The National Customs Agency of Bulgaria is responsible for customs clearance.
Imports are subject to customs duties, VAT, and potentially excise taxes.
Commercial importers need an EORI number.
Used household goods may be imported duty- and tax-free under relocation allowances.

A reputable international shipping company can streamline documentation and compliance to help you manage your international shipping costs efficiently.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Bulgaria

1. EORI Registration (Commercial Shipments)

Businesses or individuals importing for resale must obtain an EORI number, which is used across the European Union for customs transactions.

Not needed for personal imports
Easily obtained through Bulgaria’s customs portal

2. Required Documents

Whether for commercial or personal use, customs clearance requires:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice with detailed goods description and HS codes
Packing list
Single Administrative Document (SAD)
Certificate of Origin (to benefit from trade agreements, if applicable)
Import permits or licenses for restricted items

For personal effects:

Passport
Proof of Bulgarian residency (visa or long-stay permit)
Detailed inventory list
Declaration of non-commercial use

All documents must be clear and accurate to prevent delays.

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

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

Customs duties: 0–12%, based on the EU’s Common External Tariff
VAT: 20% standard rate (applied on CIF + duty value)
Excise taxes: Apply to alcohol, tobacco, and fuel products

Tax-Free Import for Personal Effects:

You can import used personal belongings duty- and VAT-free if:

You're moving your primary residence to Bulgaria
The goods are used for personal, non-commercial use
The items arrive within 12 months of your relocation

A reliable international shipping company can estimate duties and handle customs declarations to lower your international shipping costs.

Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Bulgaria follows EU restrictions but may also enforce local rules. Items requiring special clearance include:

Restricted Goods:

Medicines and supplements – Ministry of Health approval
Cosmetics and food – Must meet EU safety and labeling rules
Electronics and telecom devices – CE marking required
Firearms and ammunition – Permit mandatory
Agricultural goods – Phytosanitary or veterinary certificates

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and controlled substances
Hazardous chemicals
Counterfeit items
Obscene material or items offensive to public morality

Shipping Personal Effects to Bulgaria

If you’re relocating to Bulgaria, you may bring used household goods without paying customs duties or VAT, as long as:

You’ve lived outside the EU for at least 12 months
The items are for personal use only
The shipment arrives within 6 months before or 12 months after your move

Required Documents:

Passport
Bulgarian long-term visa or residence permit
Inventory list with value estimates
Proof of previous foreign residence
Customs declaration for tax exemption

New items or commercial quantities may trigger full customs and VAT charges.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Goods imported to Bulgaria must comply with EU labeling laws, including:

Labels in Bulgarian for retail items
Product name, manufacturer, importer, usage, and safety information
Expiry/manufacture dates (required for consumables)
The metric system for weights and measurements
CE mark for electronics, toys, and machinery

All wooden packaging (pallets, crates) must be ISPM 15-compliant—heat-treated and officially marked to prevent quarantine.

Who Can Help?

Use a Licensed Broker or an International Shipping Company

A qualified customs broker or international shipping company can:

Handle EORI registration and customs filings
Verify product classification and taxes
Assist with tax-exempt relocation shipments
Offer delivery options throughout Bulgaria

Professional support ensures smooth processing and affordable shipping without delays or penalties.

Final Import Checklist for Bulgaria

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	Commercial imports	Required before declaration
SAD customs declaration	All shipments	Must be filed through Bulgarian Customs
Customs duties (0–12%)	Most goods	Based on HS codes
VAT (20%)	All goods	Calculated on CIF + duty
ISPM 15 compliance	Wood packaging	Required for sea freight
Bulgarian labeling	Retail products	Must include product details in Bulgarian
Declaration of personal use	Household goods	Needed for exemption from taxes

Conclusion: Shipping to Bulgaria from the USA

Bulgaria’s EU membership offers a structured import system with relatively consistent rules. However, knowing the right procedures can make the difference between a smooth delivery and an unexpected hold at customs.

Working with a dependable international shipping company helps you plan ahead, reduce your international shipping costs, and ensure affordable shipping from the U.S. to Bulgaria, whether for business or personal needs.