Shipping Goods to Ireland from the USA

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

Ireland is a friendly and accessible destination for both U.S. commercial exports and personal shipments. As a member of the European Union (EU), Ireland adheres to EU customs law, which means shipments are subject to standard EU import rules, including VAT, customs duties, and compliance requirements.

This guide explains how to successfully navigate the Irish import process, manage taxes and paperwork, and reduce international shipping costs with the support of a trusted international shipping company.

Shipping to Ireland from USA

Key Facts About Importing to Ireland

Ireland follows the EU Union Customs Code (UCC).

Shipments are subject to customs duties, Value Added Tax (VAT at 23%), and possibly excise taxes.
Importers must have an EORI number.
Product regulations, labeling, and safety standards must align with EU requirements.
Relocating individuals may qualify for duty- and VAT-free import of personal effects.

An experienced international shipping company can help ensure compliance, avoid delays, and manage affordable shipping options from the USA.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Ireland

1. Assign an Importer of Record (IOR)

Every commercial import into Ireland must be handled by a party with a valid EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification). For personal shipments, customs clearance is typically handled by a customs broker or your international shipping company.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Customs clearance through the Irish Revenue’s Automated Import System (AIS) requires:

Commercial invoice with product description, quantity, and value
Packing list
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Certificate of Origin (for trade agreement benefits)
Import declaration (AIS electronic entry)
EORI number of the importer

Personal shipments require:

Passport or Irish visa
Inventory list
Proof of relocation

3. Understand Import Duties and VAT

Ireland applies the following charges on imports:

Customs duties: Vary by product; many consumer goods are duty-free or under 10%
VAT: Standard rate is 23%, calculated on the CIF value plus duty
Excise tax: Applies to alcohol, tobacco, and fuel products

Taxes are assessed based on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). Your international shipping company can help estimate the total international shipping cost and applicable taxes before your shipment is sent.

4. Comply with EU Product Regulations

Goods shipped to Ireland must meet EU safety, labeling, and technical compliance standards:

CE marking is required for electronics, toys, and machinery
RoHS and REACH apply to electronics and chemical-containing products
Food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals must meet EU health regulations

Labeling must include:

Product name and description
Country of origin
Manufacturer/importer contact details
Safety warnings and usage instructions
Measurements in metric units
Instructions in English or Irish

Incorrect or missing labels may result in delayed clearance or fines.

Shipping Personal Effects to Ireland

If you are moving to Ireland, you may be eligible for duty- and VAT-free importation of used personal effects.

To Qualify:

You’ve lived outside the EU for at least 12 months
You’re moving to Ireland as your primary residence
The goods have been owned and used for at least 6 months
You do not sell, lend, or transfer the goods for 12 months

Required Documents:

Proof of change of residence (rental agreement, job offer, visa)
Inventory list
Customs Form C&E 1076
Passport and entry stamp

Labeling & Packaging Requirements

Retail goods shipped to Ireland must comply with EU labeling laws, including:

Product description and instructions in English
Country of origin
Safety symbols or CE mark (if applicable)
Expiry/manufacture dates for perishable goods

All wooden packaging must comply with ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and stamped). Non-compliant wood may be destroyed or quarantined.

Who Can Help?

Use a Licensed Irish Customs Broker or International Shipping Partner

A licensed broker or your international shipping company can:

File your import declaration via the AIS portal
Ensure product compliance with EU law
Pay duties and VAT on your behalf
Coordinate delivery to your final address

For most U.S. shippers, a full-service international shipping company is the easiest and most cost-effective option for managing customs and delivery in Ireland.

Final Import Checklist for Ireland

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	All commercial imports	Must be obtained before import
Customs declaration (AIS)	All goods	Filed electronically by broker
Customs duty	Based on product category	Usually 0–10%
VAT (23%)	All goods	Based on CIF + duty value
Excise tax	Alcohol, tobacco, etc.	Additional rates may apply
EU compliance (CE, RoHS, etc.)	Regulated goods	Products must meet safety/labelling standards
ISPM 15 wood packaging	Pallets, crates, dunnage	Required for untreated wood
Transfer of residence	Personal effects	C&E 1076 form and relocation proof needed

Conclusion: Shipping to Ireland from the USA

Shipping to Ireland is straightforward with the right planning and support. As part of the EU, Irish customs follow standardized rules, but you’ll still need to comply with specific tax rates, documentation, and product standards.

By partnering with a reputable international shipping company, you can reduce stress, lower your international shipping costs, and enjoy affordable shipping solutions for both commercial and personal imports.