Customs Regulations in Germany: real experience from chats

While some Russian products like 'Belevskaya pastila', 'kozinaki', or 'halva in chocolate' can be found in Russian or Turkish stores in Germany, availability and price can be issues. Children who grew up in Germany might not initially appreciate these sweets as much as those who grew up in Russia, but their taste can develop with age. For specific items like 'B.Yu. Alexandrov' chocolate-covered cheese snacks, an insulated bag might be needed for transport due to potential temperature sensitivity. It's advisable to check local Russian stores or consider bringing them from Russia if specific brands are desired.

Attempting to export these items, especially in large quantities, may lead to legal consequences. Perfumes, if for personal use and not in commercial quantities (e.g., a few opened bottles), are generally allowed through EU customs without significant issues. While random checks can occur, individual luggage contents are often not heavily scrutinized unless specific prohibited items are suspected. The decision to export such items rests with the traveler.

2. Valid rabies vaccination. 3. Antibody titration test (wait 30 days after vaccination before drawing blood). 4. Mandatory 3-month waiting period from the date of blood draw for the titration test. 5. Animal Health Certificate issued by a state veterinarian before travel. Titration results are valid for the animal's lifetime if rabies vaccinations remain uninterrupted.

If the declared value is underestimated, Russian customs may re-evaluate the items (e.g., to 2000 EUR for 7 used branded items), refuse entry, and suggest a return. Such actions, particularly regarding new or high-value branded goods, can be considered a violation of sanctions regimes. It is crucial to accurately declare contents and value to avoid potential legal consequences or seizure.

The customs authorities may request an internal Russian passport to verify residency status. Failure to disclose residency can lead to legal issues. Consult the Federal Customs Service (FTS) of Russia for current regulations and deposit calculation.

To mitigate risks during border checks, remove items from original packaging and activate them to demonstrate personal use. Failure to do so may lead to confiscation, fines, or criminal charges. The origin of ownership (personal vs. company) does not exempt individuals from these regulations.

Declaring the item accurately and checking current customs regulations for personal belongings is advisable.

Required evidence includes formal invoices, payment transaction history, and original receipts. Documentation from unverifiable online platforms is often rejected. The formal appeal process is necessary if the initial declared value is disputed.

Individuals seeking them often inquire about ways to obtain them, implying potential interest in illicit import or purchase from unofficial sources. Their availability is linked to their manufacturing location rather than legal distribution channels within the country.

While official regulations limit quantities to three months, in practice, a prescription for personal use is generally sufficient and usually accepted without detailed quantity checks.

Prescription drugs are generally prohibited. Non-prescription items like dietary supplements (B.A.D.) or vitamins might be permissible, but customs regulations should always be verified. Delivery via services like DHL can take approximately one month.

There is a high likelihood of items deemed prohibited being confiscated. This applies generally to all items, including potentially restricted goods like vape liquids.

Question about the language required for the customs declaration form for importing the vehicle. Advice given is to fill it out in the language of the foreign passport, with the registration address in Russian. Sample forms are often available at border crossings.

Domestic shipping within Germany is more straightforward. Train services are a possible option.