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Shipping Goods to Iceland from the USA

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

Despite its remote location, Iceland is well connected through efficient customs and logistics systems. Whether you’re shipping from the USA for commercial purposes or personal relocation, understanding Iceland’s import regulations will help avoid delays, fines, and inflated international shipping costs.

This guide outlines everything you need to know when importing to Iceland from the United States, as well as how a reputable international shipping company can ensure smooth and affordable shipping.

Key Facts About Importing to Iceland

Iceland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) but not a member of the European Union (EU).

It uses its own customs code managed by Icelandic Customs (Tollurinn).
VAT and duties apply to most imports, including personal shipments.
CE compliance is required for regulated goods, such as electronics and machinery.

With the right international shipping company, you can avoid costly mistakes and optimize your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Iceland

1. Prepare the Required Documents

To clear customs in Iceland, your shipping documents must include:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice (with detailed product description and value)
Packing list
Certificate of Origin (if seeking tariff preferences)
Customs declaration (EIN or T1 form)

For personal effects:

Passport
Proof of residency or employment in Iceland
Inventory list
Declaration of non-commercial use

All documents must be clear and consistent to avoid customs delays.

2. Duties, VAT, and Tax Exemptions

Customs duties vary based on item category; many consumer goods have rates from 0% to 30%.
VAT (Value Added Tax) is 24%, charged on the total CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
Excise tax applies to certain goods like alcohol, tobacco, and vehicles.

Exemptions for Relocating Residents

If you’re moving to Iceland, you may import used household goods duty-free if:

You’ve lived abroad for at least 12 months
You’re establishing permanent residency
The goods are used and owned for 12+ months
You do not sell the goods for at least 12 months after import

A qualified international shipping company can guide you through claiming exemptions and help lower your international shipping costs.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Restricted Items:

Alcohol and tobacco – Strict quantity limits apply and are heavily taxed
Medications – Must be for personal use with a prescription
Food – Permits required for meat, dairy, and perishables
Firearms – Require advance permission and registration
Vehicles – Must meet Icelandic environmental and safety standards

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and illegal drugs
Counterfeit goods
Explosives and unapproved firearms
Pornographic material or items offensive to Icelandic law

Shipping Personal Effects to Iceland

If you’re relocating, you can ship personal belongings with reduced or no import tax if:

You’re moving your primary residence to Iceland
Goods are used and not commercial
Shipment is received within six months of your arrival

Required Documents:

Passport and proof of Icelandic residence
Customs declaration for personal items
Inventory list (in Icelandic or English)
Proof of former foreign residence

New or high-value items may be subject to tax, even in personal shipments.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements

Products entering Iceland must comply with EEA standards:

CE marking is required for electronics, machinery, toys, and other similar products. Labels for food, supplements, and cosmetics must include:

Ingredients
Production and expiration dates
Instructions in Icelandic or English
Wood packaging materials (pallets, crates) must meet ISPM 15 regulations

Who Can Help?

Partner With an International Shipping Company

An experienced international shipping company will help you:

Handle customs documents and declarations
Navigate CE compliance and VAT regulations
Coordinate local delivery within Iceland
Ensure affordable shipping by optimizing freight method and documentation

This expertise is especially valuable when relocating or sending high-value or sensitive cargo.

Final Import Checklist for Iceland

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Bill of Lading / Invoice	All shipments	Required for customs clearance
Customs Declaration (EIN)	All shipments	Must be submitted to Icelandic Customs
VAT (24%)	Most imported goods	Charged on the total CIF value
CE Marking	Electronics and regulated goods	Mandatory for import and sale
ISPM 15 Certification	Wood packaging	Required for sea freight shipments
Proof of residency	Personal effects	Required to claim relocation exemptions

Conclusion: Shipping to Iceland from the USA

Iceland’s well-organized customs procedures and EEA-aligned regulations make it a strong trade partner for U.S. exporters and individuals relocating to the country. However, duties, taxes, and documentation can still be complex without proper support.

By working with a trusted international shipping company, you can minimize paperwork errors, avoid delays, and reduce your international shipping costs, making your shipping from the USA to Iceland affordable and straightforward.