The ATA Carnet

Written By Robin Spaak

While it may seem like just another document, the ATA Carnet can make a big difference when transporting horses internationally—especially with today’s complex customs regulations and increasing global trade restrictions.

In this post, we’ll explain what an ATA Carnet is, how it works, and why it’s become an essential tool for international equine travel.

What is an ATA Carnet?

The ATA Carnet is an international customs document—often called a “passport for goods.” It allows temporary import of goods, such as horses, tack, and equipment, into over 80 countries without paying import duties or taxes, as long as the goods return to their country of origin within a specified timeframe. An ATA Carnet is valid for 2, 6 or 12 months.

For horse owners and riders, this means you can travel abroad for competitions, training or events without facing import fees. The carnet proves the horse is not being sold and will return home, enabling smooth clearance through customs.

Much like a passport, the carnet is stamped at each entry and exit point, helping authorities track the horse’s movements and stay within the allowed period.

Key Points:

  • Issued by the Chamber of Commerce in the country of departure

  • Valid for 12 months from the date of issue (not the date of travel)

  • Must be stamped at every border—just like a passport

Why use an ATA Carnet?

Whether you're headed to France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, or elsewhere in Europe, an ATA Carnet offers:

  • No import duties or VAT

  • Clear temporary import status

  • Smooth documentation for border control

  • Peace of mind for temporary stays abroad

Without a carnet, customs may classify your horse as a permanent import, potentially leading to significant charges.

Important Considerations

  • Not valid for horses being sold – If the horse is sold while abroad, the carnet becomes invalid and duties will apply.

  • Validity starts from issue date – Apply early to ensure it covers your travel.

  • Border stamps required – Customs must stamp the carnet at every entry and exit.

Planning a Temporary Trip Abroad with Your Horse?

Using an ATA Carnet ensures you stay compliant with customs and can easily prove your horse’s temporary status abroad—whether for competition, training, auction, or events.

Special Note: Travel to the USA 🇺🇸

The United States currently applies import duties on a wide range of foreign goods—including horses.
If a horse enters the U.S. without a carnet, customs may consider it a permanent import, and import duties could apply.

With an ATA Carnet, the horse is clearly marked as a temporary import, avoiding unnecessary costs—as long as it returns within the carnet’s validity period.

✔ With carnet = No duties
✘ Without carnet = Risk of permanent import classification

Robin Spaak