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Binding valuation information (BVI)

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Binding valuation information (BVI) is an advance written decision issued by customs that is legally binding and establishes how the customs value of goods will be calculated prior to their importation. It allows you to know in advance which customs valuation method will apply and what duties and taxes will be calculated upon importation.

BVI is one of three types of advance rulings in the EU, alongside binding tariff information (BTI) and binding origin information (BOI). Its introduction is also required by the World Trade Organization's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).

The new legal framework for BVI will apply across the EU from 1 December 2027.

Benefits of BVI

BVI provides:

  • certainty on the applicable customs valuation method and future duties and taxes
  • the ability to more accurately plan import costs
  • reduced risk of disputes with customs and value corrections
  • a faster and smoother goods importation process
  • uniform customs valuation practices across all European Union Member States

Issuing a BVI decision

A BVI decision is issued upon receipt of an application from a person. After assessing the information provided, customs issues a decision specifying the appropriate customs valuation method or criteria and how they are to be applied in the specific circumstances to determine the customs value of the goods.

The application documents must include data and documentary evidence of the customs value elements, including:

  • the price of the goods
  • additional payments and discounts
  • relationships between the parties to the transaction
  • any other information needed to determine the customs value

Any person planning to import goods and wishing to obtain an advance official customs decision on the determination of customs value may submit an application.

The decision is provided in the form of a customs decision as set out in EU legislation – it is an advance document on the recognition of the customs value of goods.

Validity

  • the decision is binding on both the trader and customs
  • valid for 3 years
  • may cease to be valid earlier if EU legislation changes; in such cases, a transitional period may be granted
  • the decision is annulled if incomplete or inaccurate information was provided when it was issued

When an application will not be accepted

Customs will not accept an application if:

  • another application has already been (or is being) submitted for identical goods acquired under the same circumstances
  • the application is not linked to any intended use of a BVI decision or any intended customs procedure
  • the applicant already holds a valid decision covering the same situation

Legal basis

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