IBC is Europe's premier broadcast and media technology show, held annually at RAI Amsterdam each September. Non-EU exhibitors — including US and Canadian companies — need an ATA Carnet to temporarily import cameras, production systems, and broadcast gear into the Netherlands without paying EU import duties or Dutch VAT, which can exceed 21% on high-value equipment.
US and Canadian companies exhibiting at IBC need a carnet issued by USCIB or the Canadian Chamber of Commerce covering professional equipment, commercial samples, and exhibition goods. The Netherlands is a full ATA Carnet member through the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC WCF). Carnets are valid for up to 12 months and allow multiple entries and exits across all listed countries.
IBC Amsterdam is held in Netherlands. Review the specific ATA Carnet requirements, accepted uses, and entry procedures for Netherlands before you travel.
Full Netherlands Carnet Guide6–8 weeks before IBC
Begin equipment list. IBC attracts global exhibitors — freight logistics fill up fast. Early carnet prep aligns with freight booking.
4 weeks before
Submit carnet application to EasyCarnet. Include all equipment with accurate EUR or USD values — Dutch Customs may verify against market pricing.
2 weeks before
Receive completed carnet. Confirm the list matches your freight manifest exactly. Discrepancies at Schiphol can cause delays.
Arrival at AMS
Present carnet to Dutch Customs at Schiphol. Officers detach the importation voucher and stamp the counterfoil. Retain this copy.
IBC show days
Keep the carnet in a secure location at the stand. Customs may spot-check on the show floor.
Departure from the Netherlands
Present carnet at Schiphol Customs before checking freight. Obtain re-exportation stamp on all vouchers. Missing this stamp causes serious problems.
Within 2 weeks of return
Return stamped carnet to EasyCarnet for discharge with USCIB or the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Primary gateway — extensive Dutch Customs facilities, experienced with carnet processing for IBC
RAI Amsterdam Exhibition Centre
Freight delivered directly to RAI cleared through Schiphol as port of entry
Rotterdam Port
Used for sea freight; transit carnets available for onward road delivery to RAI
Ready to apply?
Starting at $499 for equipment under $10k. Same-day processing available.
Start ApplicationStarting at $499 for equipment valued under $10k. Same-day processing available for last-minute bookings.