Customs Clearance in Georgia: A Simple Guide
Every shipment entering or leaving Georgia passes through customs. Understanding the basics helps you plan timing and cost. Here's how customs clearance works - and how Portex handles it for you.
How the process works
- 1
Documents are prepared
Before goods arrive, we gather and check the commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, and any certificates or licenses your cargo requires.
- 2
The declaration is submitted
We lodge a customs declaration with the Georgian Revenue Service, classifying the goods by HS code and declaring their value and origin.
- 3
Duties and taxes are assessed
Georgia applies import VAT (usually 18%) and, for some goods, customs duty and excise. Many goods carry 0% duty under Georgia's free-trade agreements.
- 4
Inspection, if required
Customs may inspect the cargo or the documents. Correct paperwork keeps this fast - errors are the most common cause of delays.
- 5
Release and delivery
Once duties are paid and checks clear, customs releases the goods and we arrange final delivery to your address.
Good to know
- Georgia has free-trade agreements with the EU, China, Turkey, and CIS countries - many goods qualify for reduced or zero customs duty.
- Standard import VAT is 18%, calculated on the customs value of the goods.
- Goods are classified by HS code, which determines the duty rate - getting this right matters.
- Bonded warehouses let you store imported goods without paying duty until they are released.
Customs rules change and every shipment is different. As a licensed broker, Portex handles the full process for you - contact us for advice on your specific cargo.
Need help clearing your cargo?
Our licensed brokers handle Georgian customs end to end.