Micro export is a simplified regime run on an electronic commerce customs declaration (ETGB); the courier acts as indirect representative and no customs broker is needed. The standard export regime recognizes no value or weight limit, but requires a broker, a declaration and a broader paperwork process. The dividing line is the value and weight per shipment.
Side by side on the same criteria.
| Criterion | Micro export (ETGB) | Standard export regime |
|---|---|---|
| Declaration and representation | The ETGB is issued by the courier acting as indirect representative; no separate broker is needed. | The declaration is prepared with a customs broker; the process involves more parties. |
| Value and weight limits | There is a set value and weight ceiling per shipment; anything above it cannot be processed under this regime. | There is no value or weight limit; large consignments go out under this regime. |
| Processing speed | The process starts when the courier picks up; the shipment can leave the same day. | Document preparation and customs processing are measured in days and require planning. |
| Cost | There is no broker fee; the main cost is the courier charge, and it is high per unit. | There are brokerage and documentation costs, but the transport cost per unit is far lower. |
| Records and incentives | An export record is created; the ETGB is the supporting document for the relevant VAT and incentive schemes. | A full export record is created; it is the standard route for government support programs and refund processes. |
| Buyer type | Mostly used for shipping directly to the end consumer. | Suited to shipments to importing companies, distributors and wholesalers. |
It is right for e-commerce shipments going directly to the end consumer where the value and weight per shipment stay within the regime's limits. If you ship marketplace orders one by one, the process runs fast through the courier.
The standard export regime is mandatory for wholesale shipments, container or pallet loads, and high-value single consignments. It is also used when there is a letter of credit, a certificate of origin, or a document request from the importer in the destination country.
Micro export if you ship one by one to end consumers and the shipment stays within the regime's value and weight limits; the standard export regime for wholesale or high-value consignments.
It is right for e-commerce shipments going directly to the end consumer where the value and weight per shipment stay within the regime's limits. If you ship marketplace orders one by one, the process runs fast through the courier.
The standard export regime is mandatory for wholesale shipments, container or pallet loads, and high-value single consignments. It is also used when there is a letter of credit, a certificate of origin, or a document request from the importer in the destination country.
Micro export if you ship one by one to end consumers and the shipment stays within the regime's value and weight limits; the standard export regime for wholesale or high-value consignments.
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