The ATA notebook flies towards digitalization in 2026
Starting in 2026, the ATA book should start to become a 100% digital version! A development that will considerably simplify the formalities related to temporary export and mark a turning point in the modernisation of customs procedures.
Initiated several years ago, the dematerialization of the ATA book, eATA, takes shape (cf. Export: ATA notebook digitizes). This transition will be gradual: from the first quarter of 2026 onwards, the first customs administrations should be ready to officially accept digital carnets, with a full transition target by the end of 2027.
The ATA (Temporary Admission/Temporary Admission) is an international customs document allowing the temporary transport of goods without duties or taxes, used in particular for fairs, commercial demonstrations or sports competitions. So far exclusively available in paper format, it could quickly become a source of administrative complexity: physical management of the document, multiple signatures and stamps, risk of loss or non-compliance.
In 2026, this customs formality is expected to shift into the era of dematerialization. Companies should be able to access their ATA book directly via the GEFI platform, thanks to a dedicated mobile application (Android and iOS). In concrete terms, each notebook will generate a unique QR code that the customs services can scan from their own interface, developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which runs the ATA system worldwide. No more need for physical documents: the idea is that everything is centralized and secure, from the issue of the carnet to the transit through customs, to the possible returns and intermediate checks.
The e-ATA project, a result of several years of collaboration between the ATA guaranteeing bodies, the national customs authorities and the ICC, aims to thoroughly modernise a procedure previously considered tedious and time-consuming. The digital log should provide time-saving, reduced risk of error and better fluidity in international operations. Companies will also be able to track the movement of their goods in real time.
The e-ATA project teams continue to work actively to finalize the deployment of this solution. The coming months will be devoted to preparing the switchboard: system updates, tests, communication with users. Regular communications should be made available and we will keep you informed of the steps to be taken when the e-ATA is actually established.