For the import of some product groups, a separate approval is required before reaching the customs declaration stage: pre-approval. This concept refers to a stage different from the standard TAREKS process, and confusing the two can cause serious delays in the import timeline. In this article we explain what pre-approval is and how it differs from TAREKS.
What Is Pre-Approval?
Pre-approval is an approval or importability confirmation that must be obtained from the relevant authority, for certain product groups within specific legislation, before the product arrives at customs or before a customs declaration is made. Its purpose is to assess the conformity of technically risky or specially regulated products before the product even sets off on its journey; this way, the importer avoids unnecessary logistics costs, and the entry of a non-conforming product into the country is prevented from the outset.
The Difference Between Pre-Approval and TAREKS
| Pre-Approval | TAREKS | |
|---|---|---|
| When? | Before import, in some cases before shipment | At the customs declaration stage |
| Scope | Specific product groups defined under certain legislation | A broad range of products covered by ÜGD communiqués |
| Purpose | Pre-shipment conformity confirmation | Risk-based customs control |
| Outcome | Permit document/approval | Release at customs, or referral to document/physical review |
For some product groups, only the TAREKS process is sufficient, while for others, both pre-approval and the TAREKS process can operate one after the other. For this reason, when planning an import, it is necessary to clarify from the outset which mechanism the product group is subject to.
How Does the Pre-Approval Process Work?
- It is determined whether the product falls under legislation requiring pre-approval.
- The required technical documents (declaration of conformity, technical file summary, test reports, etc.) are prepared.
- An application is made to the relevant authority.
- The authority reviews the documents and requests additional information/testing if necessary.
- Once approval is obtained, the import and customs process is initiated.
Most Common Mistakes
- Shipping a product that requires pre-approval without having obtained that pre-approval.
- Not including the duration of the pre-approval process in the import timeline.
- Assuming pre-approval and the TAREKS application are the same process.
- Not having the required technical documents ready at the time of application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pre-approval required for every product?
No, pre-approval is an additional control mechanism prescribed only under certain legislation and for certain product groups; for most product groups, a direct TAREKS application is sufficient.
Are pre-approval and the TAREKS application the same thing?
No. Pre-approval, in some cases, is a separate approval that must be obtained before import takes place or before the customs declaration; TAREKS, on the other hand, is the risk-based control process that operates at the customs declaration stage.
How long does the pre-approval process take?
The duration varies depending on the product group, the relevant authority's workload, and the completeness of the documents submitted. For this reason, it is important to include the required pre-approval in the import plan early.
Conclusion
Pre-approval is a separate approval stage that, for some product groups, comes before TAREKS. Clarifying at the very start of import planning which product group is subject to this process prevents costly delays that could arise at customs and in logistics.
For more information, see our TAREKS & Import consultancy service.
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