In the field of international trade and logistics, the INTRASTAT system plays a crucial role in providing detailed statistical data on the movement of goods between European Union countries.

This system is not only vital for tax and customs authorities, but also for companies operating in the international market, enabling them to meet their legal obligations and optimize their logistics operations.

For a logistics company like Across Logistics, understanding and efficiently handling INTRASTAT declarations is essential to offer a complete and compliant service to its customers.

In this article, we will explore in depth what INTRASTAT is, who is required to file, and how Across Logistics can facilitate this process through its expertise and specialized services.

 

What is INTRASTAT?

INTRASTAT is a statistical data collection system used to record and control the movement of goods between European Union member countries.

Implemented in 1993, INTRASTAT replaced traditional customs declarations following the creation of the European single market, thus allowing free movement of goods without customs barriers.

The main purpose of INTRASTAT is to provide the authorities with accurate statistics on intra-EU trade. These data are essential for political and economic decision-making at European and national level.

In addition, companies use this information to analyze the market and plan their business operations.

The INTRASTAT system requires companies above certain intra-EU trade thresholds to submit periodic declarations detailing the type, value, and quantity of goods traded.

This ensures transparency and accuracy in trade statistics, thus facilitating more efficient management of trade and customs policies in the EU.

 

Who is obliged to file INTRASTAT?

The obligation to file INTRASTAT declarations falls on companies involved in the trade of goods between European Union countries that exceed certain value thresholds established annually by each member country.

These thresholds vary and may be different for shipments and receipts of goods. Companies that meet or exceed these thresholds must file monthly returns detailing intra-EU transactions.

The obligation includes all entities, regardless of their size, as long as their business activities exceed the established thresholds.
In addition, it is essential that these companies keep accurate records of their operations to ensure correct reporting.

 

Specific thresholds

The specific thresholds for INTRASTAT filing vary by country.
For example, in Spain, the current threshold for arrivals of goods is €400,000, and for shipments it is also €400,000.
It is important that companies consult the specific thresholds in their country of operation to ensure compliance.

 

Consequences of noncompliance

Failure to comply with the obligation to file INTRASTAT may result in financial and legal penalties.
Therefore, it is crucial that companies that exceed the established thresholds file their returns accurately and on time.

 

How to file the INTRASTAT return

Making the INTRASTAT declaration accurately and in compliance with current regulations is crucial for companies involved in intra-Community trade.
The following are the essential steps in carrying out this process:

Data collection: Collect information on all intra-EU transactions, including type of goods, value, weight, and country of origin/destination.

Use of the INTRASTAT model: Complete the INTRASTAT model provided by the corresponding tax authority.
This form may vary slightly between EU countries.

Coding of goods: Make sure you use the correct Combined Nomenclature (CN) codes to classify the goods.
These codes are essential for correct data submission and analysis.

Filing deadlines: File returns within the deadlines set by your country’s tax authority.
For example, in many EU countries, declarations must be filed monthly by the 12th of the month following the transaction.

Tools and platforms: Use the electronic tools and platforms offered by tax authorities for filing returns.
These platforms facilitate filing and ensure compliance with technical requirements.
For example, in Spain you can log on to: INTRASTAT

Verification and correction: Carefully check all returns before filing to avoid errors.
If errors are detected after filing, correct them immediately according to the procedures established by the tax authority.

 

Professional assistance

For many companies, managing the INTRASTAT process can be complex and time consuming. Across Logistics offers specialized services to assist companies with the customs management, ensuring accurate and timely filing of INTRASTAT declarations and other documents.

With the assistance of experienced professionals, companies can focus on their core operations while meeting their legal obligations.

 

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Coding in INTRASTAT

Coding of goods is a fundamental aspect of the INTRASTAT system. To ensure an accurate and compliant declaration, it is essential that companies correctly use the Combined Nomenclature (CN) codes. These codes allow goods to be classified in a uniform and standardized manner throughout the European Union.

 

Combined Nomenclature (CN)

The Combined Nomenclature is a system of codes used to classify products traded under the Combined Nomenclature..
These codes have eight digits and are designed to provide a detailed description of each type of merchandise.
The correct assignment of these codes is crucial, as it influences the accuracy of trade statistics and compliance with tax and customs obligations.

 

Steps for coding

Identification of the merchandise: Analyze in detail the type of merchandise you are declaring.
It is important to have an accurate description in order to assign the correct code. 2.Combined Nomenclature Query: Use the Combined Nomenclature database available on the websites of the EU customs authorities to find the appropriate code. Assign the correct code: Assign the eight-digit CN code that best describes the goods.
Make sure this code is accurate to avoid errors in the declaration. Annual updates: Please note that the Combined Nomenclature is updated annually.
Review and update your commodity codes regularly to ensure continued compliance.

 

Benefits of accurate coding

Accurate coding not only ensures compliance with customs regulations, but also facilitates trade data analysis, optimizes logistics management and improves strategic business planning.
Across Logistics offers assistance in the correct coding of goods, helping its customers navigate this process accurately and efficiently.

 

Management and presentation of INTRASTAT

The management and filing of INTRASTAT declarations requires meticulous attention to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.
Here are the essential steps and considerations for this process:

 

Electronic tools and platforms

Official platforms: Use the electronic platforms provided by the tax authorities of your country for the filing of INTRASTAT.
These platforms are designed to facilitate data entry and ensure their correct transmission. Management software: Use specialized customs and foreign trade management software that includes functionalities for the INTRASTAT declaration.

These tools help automate data collection and reporting.

 

Steps for presentation

Data review: Before filing the declaration, thoroughly review all data to ensure accuracy.
Verify that merchandise codes, values and quantities are correct and up to date. Compliance with deadlines: Make sure you file your declarations within the deadlines set by the tax authorities.
Most EU countries require monthly filing by the 12th day of the month following the transaction. Correction of errors: If errors are detected after filing, follow the procedures established by the tax authorities to correct them.
Filing amended returns in a timely manner is crucial to avoid penalties.

 

Practical advice

Training and updates: Keep your team informed and trained on INTRASTAT regulatory updates and best practices for filing returns.
Specialized consulting: Consider hiring specialized consulting services to ensure compliance and optimize filing processes. Across Logistics offers these services, facilitating efficient and compliant management.

 

Across logistics as your strategic partner

In an increasingly globalized trade environment, having a strategic partner in logistics and customs compliance is essential to ensure the efficiency and regulatory compliance of international operations. Across Logistics is positioned as a key partner for companies that need to manage their INTRASTAT declarations and other customs obligations effectively.

 

Fiscal representation in multiple countries

Across Logistics offers tax representation services in several European Union countries, making it easier for companies to comply with their tax and customs obligations. Some of the benefits provided by Across Logistics include:

Deferred VAT: In countries such as the Netherlands, Across Logistics enables companies to benefit from deferred VAT, which improves cash flow and reduces financial burdens.

Comprehensive management: Across Logistics takes care of all tax and customs obligations, ensuring compliance with local and European regulations. This includes the submission of import declarations through the corresponding customs systems.

Experience and knowledge: With a deep understanding of customs and tax regulations, Across Logistics provides expert advice and customized solutions for each client.

 

Other key services

In addition to fiscal representation, Across Logistics offers a range of services that complement the management of INTRASTAT, such as:

International Transport: Sea, air and land transportation solutions adapted to the needs of each client.

Warehousing and Distribution: Modern and secure infrastructure for the efficient storage and distribution of goods.

Customs Management: Specialized services for customs management, ensuring a fast and compliant clearance.

 

Relying on Across Logistics to manage INTRASTAT and other customs obligations allows companies to focus on their core business, reducing risks and optimizing their operations. Across Logistics’ expertise and comprehensive services ensure smooth regulatory compliance and efficient logistics management, positioning companies for success in the competitive international marketplace. Contact our specialists and tell them about your needs.