Shipping to Poland from the USA

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

Poland, a member of the European Union and one of the fastest-growing economies in Central Europe, offers solid opportunities for both commercial trade and personal relocation. Whether you're shipping from the USA for business or moving personal belongings, understanding Poland’s customs regulations is essential to avoid delays and reduce your international shipping costs.

This guide outlines the key requirements for international shipping to Poland, including documentation, taxes, duty-free allowances, and how a reliable international shipping company can support safe, affordable shipping from the U.S.

Shipping to Poland from USA

Key Facts About Importing to Poland

Poland adheres to EU customs regulations, with customs clearance overseen by the Polish Customs Office (Krajowa Administracja Skarbowa - KAS).

Imports from outside the EU (including the United States) are subject to customs duties, VAT, and potentially excise taxes.
Business shippers must obtain an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number.
Relocating individuals may be eligible for duty and tax exemptions on their personal belongings.

Working with a professional international shipping company ensures smooth procedures and lowers your total international shipping cost.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Poland

1. Obtain an EORI Number (For Commercial Shipments)

Businesses must register for an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number to trade within the EU.
Individuals shipping personal effects do not need an EORI number.

2. Required Documents

To clear customs in Poland, the following documents are typically required:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice with product details and HS codes
Packing list
Single Administrative Document (SAD)
Import licenses (if applicable)
Certificate of Origin (for trade preferences)

For personal effects:

Passport
Proof of residence in Poland (visa or residency permit)
Inventory list (with value estimates)
Declaration of personal, non-commercial use
Customs exemption application (if applicable)

Documentation must be accurate and consistent across all forms and documents.

3. Duties, VAT, and Tax-Free Options

When shipping from the U.S. to Poland, you may encounter the following import charges:

Customs Duties: 0–12%, depending on product category
VAT: 23% (standard rate), calculated on the CIF value plus duty
Excise Tax: Applies to alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and luxury items

Tax-Free Import of Personal Belongings

Used household goods may be imported duty-free if:

You are moving to Poland to establish residency
Items are used, owned for at least 6 months, and not for resale
The shipment arrives within 12 months of your relocation
You provide sufficient documentation proving your intent to reside

A qualified international shipping company can help ensure eligibility and reduce your international shipping costs.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Restricted Goods:

Food products – Require EU compliance and possibly veterinary/phytosanitary certificates
Medicines – May require a prescription or customs declaration
Electronics – Must carry CE marking for EU standards
Weapons, self-defense items – Require licenses

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and controlled substances
Counterfeit goods or pirated media
Products that violate intellectual property laws
Certain hazardous materials

Shipping Personal Effects to Poland

If you're relocating, you can import used household goods and personal items duty-free under EU relocation exemptions. The requirements include:

Proof of having lived outside the EU for at least 12 months
Proof of residency in Poland
Declaration confirming that items are for personal use only
Agreement not to sell or transfer items for at least 12 months post-import

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Residence permit or long-stay visa
Inventory list in Polish or English
Customs declaration for exemption

New or unopened items may not qualify for exemptions and could be taxed.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements

All consumer goods must comply with EU and Polish labeling rules:

Labels must be in Polish
Metric units must be used
CE marking is mandatory for electronics, toys, and medical devices
Food and cosmetics must list ingredients, shelf life, and allergen information

Wood packaging (pallets, crates) must be ISPM 15 compliant (heat-treated and marked) to avoid being fumigated or rejected.

Who Can Help?

Work With a Broker or International Shipping Company

To simplify the process, rely on a knowledgeable international shipping company or Polish customs broker. They can:

Complete EORI registration and SAD filing
Assist with classification and valuation
Prepare exemption documentation
Offer door-to-door logistics and clearance in Poland

This helps ensure timely delivery, full compliance, and affordable shipping from the USA.

Final Import Checklist for Poland

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	Business imports	Mandatory for EU customs processing
SAD (customs declaration)	All imports	Required at clearance
VAT (23%)	Most goods	Charged on CIF + duty
Proof of residence	Personal shipments	Required for a duty-free import
ISPM 15 compliance	Wood packaging	Mandatory
Polish labeling	Retail products	Required for EU compliance

Conclusion: Shipping to Poland from the USA

Shipping goods to Poland is a manageable process when you’re well-prepared. Whether you're relocating or exporting, proper documentation and an understanding of customs duties are essential.

By partnering with a professional international shipping company, you can ensure fast clearance, legal compliance, and affordable international shipping costs from the U.S. to Poland.