Applying for Binding Tariff Information (BTI)
Binding Tariff Information (BTI) is a legally binding decision on the classification of goods in the customs tariff. It provides legal certainty for 3 years.
When is a BTI advisable?
A BTI is recommended for:
- High-value goods with significant duty rate differences
- Novel or complex products
- Borderline classification cases
- Regular imports of the same product
- When you need legal certainty
⚠️ Without BTI, customs can change classification on each import – with back payments and interest.
Application Process
The application is submitted to the competent customs authority. Include:
- EU application form
- Exact product description
- Technical documents, data sheets
- Samples if required
- Photos of the goods
💡 The more detailed your description, the faster the processing. Use technical terminology.
Validity and Cost
BTI is valid EU-wide for 3 years. It's free of charge. Processing time is approximately 120 days.