Taking Your Own Instrument Abroad for Work (and Bringing It Back)
If you’re a UK-based musician travelling temporarily to the EU to perform with your own instrument -say, for a concert, tour, or masterclass – you are not importing the instrument. You’re temporarily exporting it for work. But customs officials in the EU and UK need proof that:
- The instrument was not sold to you in the EU, and
- You intend to bring it back (not leave or sell it abroad)
How to Protect Yourself from Import VAT and Duty Abroad
To avoid being wrongly charged import taxes when entering the EU or coming back into the UK:
Option 1: Use an ATA Carnet (Best for professionals doing multiple trips)
- A carnet is like a passport for your instrument.
- Issued by the London Chamber of Commerce, it lists the instrument, value, and ownership.
- It proves to customs that the instrument is yours, is not for sale, and will be returned.
- Cost: Around £300–£400 plus a refundable deposit or insurance.
- Valid for up to 12 months and multiple trips.
- Can cover multiple instruments and accessories in one document.
Option 2: Use a “Returned Goods Relief” declaration (simpler, for occasional travel)
- At the UK departure point (usually airport), ask to make a duplicate list declaration:
- List of items (make, model, serial numbers, value)
- Show them to Border Force
- Get your form stamped as proof they left with you
- Keep this paperwork and present it when returning to the UK.
Post-Brexit, the rules for UK musicians travelling into Europe with instruments have changed. The key question is: Do I need an ATA Carnet (a kind of “passport for gear”) to take my instrument abroad and bring it back?
When You Do Not Need a Carnet
You do not need an ATA Carnet if:
- You are personally carrying your instrument and small accessories as hand luggage or checked baggage
- The items are clearly for your personal use (not for sale)
- You use the green channel (“nothing to declare”) at customs
This is known as the “portable personal use exemption” -and it applies across most EU countries (incl. France, Germany, Italy, Spain).
So, if you take a cello to the airport and check it in, then you don’t need a carnet, but if shipped without you, then you will need a carnet.
Examples:
| Musician Type | Typical Gear | Carnet Needed? | Notes |
| Violinist | Violin + bow in case | ❌ No | Personal use exemption applies |
| Trumpeter | Trumpet + mute in gig bag | ❌ No | Carry with you through customs |
| Saxophonist | Saxophone + mouthpieces & leads | ❌ No | Include small extras in case |
| Clarinet player | Clarinet + reeds + stand | ❌ No | All within personal allowance |
| Keyboardist | Lightweight stage piano in soft case | ❌ Possibly | If hand-carried, often allowed |
Top Tip: Bring proof of ownership (receipt, insurance docs, photos) and a contract or event invitation, just in case customs ask.
When You Do Need a Carnet
You do need an ATA Carnet if:
- The instrument is being shipped ahead or transported in a van
- The instrument is too large to carry yourself
- You’re travelling with multiple instruments, tech gear, or staging equipment
- You are part of an ensemble sending shared equipment
Examples:
| Musician Type | Gear | Carnet Needed? | Why |
| Cellist | Full-size cello in hard case | ✔️ Depends | Too large for carry-on, often classed as freight or hold luggage |
| Harpist | Concert harp transported separately | ✔️ Yes | Always needs carnet due to size |
| Touring band | Multiple keyboards, amps, cables | ✔️ Yes | Group gear – requires listing for re-entry |
| Drummer | Drum kit in flight cases | ✔️ Yes | Cannot be carried personally |
MU (Musicians’ Union) has discounted carnet services via providers like LCC.
Here is the oddity about travelling with a Cello
Do You Need a Carnet When Travelling with a Cello?
✅ If the cello is checked into the hold on the same flight as you:
- No carnet is needed
- This is considered personal use and covered by the “portable instrument exemption”
- You must be physically travelling with the instrument, even if it’s in the hold
✔️ This applies if you’re the owner, travelling for a concert, audition, or tour
✔️ Still bring proof of ownership and purpose (e.g. receipt, insurance, contract)
⚠️ If the cello travels on a separate seat (as cabin baggage):
- This is treated more like special handling cargo
- Some customs authorities may require an ATA Carnet due to the way the instrument is manifested on the airline’s system
- If the cello is booked under its own name or travels under a separate ticket, it’s more likely to be flagged at customs
❗ The MU suggests that in these cases, it’s safer to travel with a carnet, even though you are still accompanying it.
| Situation | Carnet Needed? | Notes |
| Checked into the hold with your luggage | ❌ No | Still bring proof of ownership |
| Bought a separate seat for the cello | ⚠️ Possibly | Safer to use carnet if instrument is listed under a separate passenger or ticket |
| Shipped separately (e.g. courier or van) | ✔️ Yes | Always needs carnet |
What If I Don’t Use a Carnet When I Should?
If you skip the carnet when required:
- You may be charged import VAT or duty (20%+ of the value)
- Customs may seize or delay your instrument
- You could lose the right to re-import without penalties
Key Tips for Musicians Travelling with Instruments
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Always carry proof of ownership (receipt, insurance docs) | Helps prove the item wasn’t just bought |
| Consider a carnet for anything valuable | Simplifies EU border crossings |
| Register with HMRC for Returned Goods Relief if no carnet | Still allows tax-free re-entry |
| Label your instrument case clearly with your name and UK address | Customs may inspect if unclear |
| Declare items if asked –do not try to sneak through | Non-declaration is a customs offence |
If you need any further help, you can arrange a call with me here.