The entry into force of the single market on 1 January 1993 resulted in the abolition of formalities and checks relating to the crossing of internal borders.

However, to ensure security of persons and to prevent the circulation of illegal goods, selective, targeted mobile checks are conducted by customs services in border areas and inside European Union countries.

Free Movement of Goods

There has been free movement of goods in the European Union since 1 July 1993.

Tax and customs formalities relating to the crossing of intra-Community borders have been abolished.
You can buy goods for your personal use in another European Union Member State without any limitation in terms of quantity or value.

The price you pay for your goods includes taxes, at the rates in the force in the country of purchase, except for purchases by correspondence and new cars, which are subject to VAT in the country of delivery.

Limitations to the franchise regime have been abolished.

You can transfer your residence from an EU Member State or receive an inheritance without limitations.

Sensitive Products

Some particularly sensitive products are still subject to controls and/or declaration, however, in particular the following:

• cultural goods (works of art);
• endangered species of wild fauna and flora (Washington Convention).

Other sensitive products:

• live animals, animal products and foodstuffs of animal origin;
• certain plants and plant products (Decree of 2 September 1993);
• weapons and munitions;
• medical products for human use, narcotics and psychotropic substances.

Other sensitive products are:

• wine, spirits and tobacco;
• oil products, except for the fuel in private vehicle tanks and in containers holding a maximum of 10 litres (same fuel as the vehicle tank).

To find out about other restrictions, contact a customs office, a Customs Information Centre or the Ministry concerned.

Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2006
Reproduction is authorised.