What is ETGB? The Complete Micro-Export Guide
The Electronic Trade Customs Declaration (ETGB) is a digital declaration that turns e-export parcels into official exports quickly and at low cost. Unlike a classic export declaration it is issued fully electronically by the operator (carrier) and is completed the same day in most cases.
Who Is ETGB For?
ETGB applies to micro-export shipments. The boundaries are clear:
- Gross weight per shipment must not exceed 300 kg
- Invoice value must not exceed €15,000
- The sale must be commercial (an e-archive invoice can be issued)
From an Etsy workshop selling handmade goods to a private-label Amazon brand, almost every e-exporter under the limits can use ETGB.
Comparison with a Classic Declaration
| Criteria | ETGB | Classic Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Customs broker | Not required | Mandatory |
| Issue time | Same day | 1-3 business days |
| Cost | Covered by the operator | Declaration + broker fees |
| VAT refund | Yes | Yes |
| Weight limit | 300 kg | Unlimited |
| Value limit | €15,000 | Unlimited |
How the VAT Refund Works
Because ETGB shipments count as official exports, your sales can be exempt from VAT or benefit from export-registered sale advantages. In short:
- You issue an e-archive invoice for the shipment (VAT-free, marked "micro export").
- The operator issues the ETGB; the declaration number is shared with you.
- At month end your accountant starts the refund process with your ETGB list and invoices.
For every parcel shipped with Hiva we issue the ETGB and deliver all documents required for your VAT refund as a single monthly report.
Common Mistakes
- Declaring an invoice value different from what the buyer paid
- Writing product descriptions only in Turkish
- Leaving the HS code empty or choosing the wrong one
- Re-shipping a returned item as if it were a new sale
All of these cause delays at destination customs and some lead to penalties. We run a pre-departure checklist on every parcel, so Hiva shipments avoid these issues.