Germany represents one of the UK's most important export markets, with British goods spanning various sectors including machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and consumer products. As Europe's largest economy, Germany offers UK businesses access to 83 million consumers with strong purchasing power and a taste for quality products.
At Tankel Logistics, we provide specialized road freight services from the UK to Germany, with a focus on efficient full truckload solutions. Our strategic operations enable smooth handling of UK-Germany shipments, while our customs expertise helps navigate post-Brexit requirements.
Our services cover all major German commercial and industrial centers including Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Bonn, Essen, Hanover, and Münster. This comprehensive coverage ensures UK exporters can reach businesses throughout Germany's economic regions with our reliable delivery service, providing access to Europe's largest and most diverse consumer market.
Benefits of exporting to Germany
- Europe's largest economy: Germany's economic strength and stability make it a reliable market for UK exporters, with consistent demand across various sectors.
- Strategic central location: Using Germany as a distribution hub gives access to not only the German market but also neighboring Eastern European countries, expanding your reach considerably.
- Industrial powerhouse: Germany's manufacturing strength creates demand for components, materials, and specialist products that UK businesses are well-positioned to supply.
- Established UK-Germany trade: Despite Brexit changes, the long-standing commercial relationship between the UK and Germany means there are well-developed networks and understanding of British products.
Export service options
At Tankel Logistics, we offer dedicated full truckload (FTL) transport solutions for UK businesses exporting to Germany:
- Full truckload (FTL) transport: Dedicated trucks for large shipments, ensuring secure and direct deliveries without delays.
- Warehousing and storage: Secure storage, inventory management, and cross-docking in our UK and Dutch warehouses.
- Customs clearance assistance: Complete export documentation, VAT processing, and compliance management for seamless customs clearance.
Taxes and duties on exports from the UK to Germany
Since Brexit, goods moving from the UK to Germany are subject to customs procedures. Key considerations include:
- VAT and duties: Most goods imported into Germany are subject to 19% VAT, with some reduced rates for essential goods. British businesses can typically zero-rate their exports to Germany, provided they meet specific conditions, such as ensuring the German recipient is VAT registered and provides a valid VAT number.
- HS code classification: Proper Harmonized System (HS) codes must be used to determine applicable tariffs and VAT rates.
- EORI number: UK exporters must have an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number for customs processing in Germany.
Our customs team provides guidance on product classification and required documentation to ensure smooth clearance and avoid unexpected charges.
Step-by-step export guide
- Prepare your goods: Ensure proper packaging and labeling according to EU standards.
- Classify goods correctly: Use the correct HS code to ensure proper taxation.
- Obtain an EORI number: Required for all UK exporters shipping goods to the EU.
- Prepare export documents: Submit an invoice, packing list, and any required certifications. This can be done by Tankel Logistics team if you don’t have the knowledge in-house.
- Transport: Your goods are loaded onto our vehicles for direct transport.
- EU entry: Goods clear German customs with our support.
- Final delivery: We deliver to your specified location in Germany through our distribution network.
Why choose Tankel Logistics?
- UK-Germany expertise: Specialized knowledge of this key trade route and requirements.
- Own fleet: We operate 60+ specialized vehicles ensuring reliable service and direct control.
- Customs expertise: Comprehensive support with both UK export and German import formalities.
- Real-time tracking: Monitor your shipment throughout its journey via our client portal.
- Flexible service options: Full truckload services available with tailored scheduling.
- Experienced drivers: All our drivers have 8+ years of experience for professional handling.
- End-to-end solution: Complete service from collection in the UK to final delivery in Germany.
