Updated: April 2025 | Reviewed by Customs Expert Anders Hansson
Are you wondering what an export declaration costs, how long it takes, and what requirements apply when exporting outside the EU? In this guide, we go through everything from the cost and time required for export declarations to the requirements of the Swedish Tax Agency and Customs – plus how you can save both time and money in the process.
How much does an export declaration cost? Price comparison 2025
The cost of export declarations varies depending on whether you do it yourself or hire an agent. Here is a current cost comparison:
| Alternative | Cost | Time required | Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Do it yourself via the Swedish Customs' e-service | SEK 0 (but requires EDI permission) | 1-3 hours per declaration for inexperienced people | No direct cost | Requires knowledge, time-consuming |
| Hire a forwarding company | SEK 450-850 per declaration | Minimal time required | Often included in the transport solution | Relatively high cost for low product values |
| Specialized customs agent (like Tullify) | SEK 300-600 per declaration | Minimal time required | Expert knowledge, cost-effective | Varies depending on complexity |
| Annual contract for regular export | From 10,000 SEK/year for unlimited number | Minimal time required | Very cost-effective at high volume | Requires long-term commitment |
Please note: The prices above are general indications. For exact pricing and other questions, please contact read more about export declaration here.
What is an export declaration and why do you need it?
An export declaration is an official document that you must submit to the Swedish Customs when you export goods from the EU to countries outside the Union. This declaration serves several important functions:
- Legal requirements: According to EU customs legislation, all goods leaving the EU customs territory must be declared
- Statistics: Forms the basis for trade statistics and economic analyses
- VAT exemption: Necessary to prove VAT-free sales to the Swedish Tax Agency
- Export control: Ensures compliance with export restrictions for sensitive goods
The export declaration is step 1 in the export process, which according to the Swedish Customs consists of three parts: export declaration, notification of goods to the office of export and notification of the export of goods.
How long does it take to make an export declaration?
The time required for an export declaration varies depending on several factors:
Normal processing time
- When submitting electronically: Approval normally occurs within minutes if all information is correct
- Via specialized customs agents: Usually within a few working hours
- During manual control: May take 1-24 hours
Factors that may extend processing time
- Red channel at Customs: If your shipment is randomly selected for inspection, it may take longer as Customs will review supporting documents and possibly inspect the goods.
- Incomplete information: If the information you provide is incomplete or incorrect, it may result in delays
- Unexpected rule changes: Changes in customs rules or export regulations may affect processing times
Information needed for quick processing
To ensure quick and correct processing of your export declaration, you need to have the following information available:
- Detailed product description
- HS code (commodity code)
- Quantity and value of the goods
- Exporter and importer details
- Delivery terms (Incoterms)
- Shipping information
- Mode of transportation (car, boat, plane or train)
- Information about where the goods leave the EU territory
The Swedish Tax Agency's requirements for VAT-free exports - how it relates to your export declaration
In order for your export to qualify as VAT-free according to the Swedish Tax Agency's regulations, you must be able to prove that the goods have actually left the EU. According to the Swedish Tax Agency's regulations (SKVFS 2022:8), the following documentation is required:
- Export certificate from Swedish Customs (obtained after approved export declaration)
- Transport documentation which shows that the goods have been transported out of the EU
- Invoice showing sales to buyers outside the EU
Important! According to the Swedish Tax Agency's guidelines, it is not enough to just have an export declaration - you must have an EAD (Export Accompanying Document) with a note about export to prove VAT exemption in the event of a possible tax audit.
Inadequate documentation may lead to the Swedish Tax Agency rejecting your VAT-free sale, which may result in additional taxation of 25% VAT plus tax surcharges of up to 40%.
The three steps of the export declaration according to the Swedish Customs
To make a correct export declaration, you must follow the Swedish Customs process:
1. Preparation and information gathering
- Commodity code (8-digit for export)
- Statistical value (goods value + freight + insurance to EU border)
- Net weight and other unit of measure (if applicable)
- Recipient details including EORI number (if commercial operator)
2. Submission of declaration
- Via EDI system (requires authorization)
- Via the Swedish Customs' e-service
3. Post-approval handling
- Printing of EAD (Export Accompanying Document)
- Presentation of goods and EAD at the point of exit
- Obtaining export certificates for VAT reporting
Factors that affect the cost of your export declaration
When comparing prices for export declaration services, keep in mind that the following factors affect the final cost:
Product characteristics
- Complexity: Goods with export restrictions require more documentation
- Product code: Uncertainty about classification increases work effort
- Value of goods: Higher values can result in more precise control
Destination country
- Trade agreement: Exports to countries with free trade agreements require a certificate of origin.
- Export restrictions: Some countries have special import requirements
Scope of service
- Basic service: Only the declaration itself
- Extended service: Help with classification, certificate of origin, etc.
- Complete service: Management of the entire export process including follow-up
Options for handling export declarations
Option 1: Do it yourself
Advantages:
- No direct cost
- Full control over the process
Disadvantages:
- Requires knowledge of customs regulations
- Time-consuming
- Risk of errors that could lead to delays and additional costs
Option 2: Hire customs agent (like Tullify)
Advantages:
- Expert knowledge minimizes the risk of errors
- Timesaving
- Continuous updates on regulatory changes
Disadvantages:
- Cost per declaration (although often lower than error costs)
Frequently asked questions about export declaration and costs
Do I have to make an export declaration for all shipments outside the EU?
Yes, with a few exceptions. Even for low-value goods, an export declaration is required, but for shipments under EUR 1,000, a simplified declaration can be used.
How long does it take to get an export declaration approved?
When submitted electronically, approval is normally within minutes if all information is correct. When checked manually, it can take 1-24 hours.
Can I ship the goods before the export declaration is approved?
No, you must first obtain an EAD (Export Accompanying Document) that will accompany the goods to the point of export.
What happens if I make a mistake in the export declaration?
Incorrect information can lead to delays, rejected declarations or, in the worst case, sanctions. After approval, changes can be requested for certain information.
How to save money on your export declarations
1. Volume agreements for regular exports
If you export regularly, consider a volume agreement with a fixed monthly fee. This can reduce the cost per declaration by up to 70%.
2. Prepare accurate information
By ensuring that all information is correct from the start, you minimize the risk of additions and delays.
3. Use the correct Incoterms
Choose delivery terms that suit your business. For example, EXW places more responsibility on the buyer, while DDP means that you as the seller take full responsibility.
4. Digitize the process
Invest in systems that integrate with the Swedish Customs' EDI service to automate the declaration process for larger volumes.
Our service: Cost-effective export declarations for all companies
At Tullify, we offer tailor-made export declaration solutions tailored to your company's needs and volume. Our prices start from 300 SEK per declaration, with the possibility of volume discounts for regular exporters.
We help you with:
- Correct tariff classification
- Preparation and submission of export declaration
- Management of permits and licenses
- Certificate of origin to take advantage of free trade agreements
- Advice on cost-effective export solutions
Our promise:
Fast handling – normally within 4 working hours
Correct classification
Fixed and transparent prices
Support throughout the export process
Contact us for a price quote
By providing us with information about your export process, we can provide a customized quote that fits your needs and budget. We will not only help you handle customs formalities correctly, but also optimize the process to minimize costs.
E-mail: info@tullify.se
Web: www.tullify.se/exportdeclaration
