Road transit from China through Poland to Europe – handling LCL shipments under T1 procedure

Why Poland is the ideal gateway to the European Union

Imports of LCL (less than container load) shipments from China are growing year by year, especially in e-commerce and B2B sectors. For many Chinese exporters, finding a fast and secure route to European clients is crucial. Poland, particularly its cargo border crossings on the eastern border, is one of the most frequently chosen entry points to the EU.

If your clients are in Germany, Belgium, France, the UK, or EFTA countries (Switzerland, Norway), the T1 transit procedure allows goods to pass through Poland without paying customs duties or VAT.

What is T1 road transit?

T1 is an EU customs transit procedure that allows non-EU goods to move across the Union without immediate payment of customs duties and VAT. Clearance occurs only in the destination country – where your client’s company or warehouse is located.

At PKS International CARGO S.A., we open T1 procedures directly at the Bobrowniki Customs Agency, without intermediaries. The T1 document is valid throughout the EU and EFTA – ensuring safe and legal road transport.

What goods do we handle?

We specialize in LCL shipments from China – smaller parcels transported together in a single vehicle. We handle:

• Electronics
  Clothing and textiles
  Toys and accessories
  Automotive parts
  Industrial components
  E-commerce goods

At our Bobrowniki customs agency, we handle road transport only – no sea or air freight. Our Gdynia office handles sea freight, and Małaszewicze – rail transport.

How does the T1 transit process work?

Step 1: opening T1 at the Polish-Belarusian border
– Required documents:
– Invoice
– Packing list
– Consignment note (CMR)
– EORI number of the EU recipient

Step 2: road transport to the destination country
Goods move by truck across the EU under customs status “transit.” They can reach Germany, Belgium, France, the UK, Norway, or other EFTA countries.

Step 3: closing T1
T1 is closed at the customs office in the destination country. Only there does the recipient pay customs duties and VAT.

What sets us apart?

• – We open T1 on-site at the border, directly
  – We handle transits 24/7 in Bobrowniki
  – Extensive experience with Chinese goods
  – Bilingual support (Polish and English)
  – A partner who understands the specifics of importing from China

FAQ

Can one T1 procedure cover multiple packages?
Yes, T1 can cover many items – sometimes even up to 1,500, depending on documents and data.

Do I need an EORI number?
Yes, the EU recipient must have an EORI number.

Can I send goods to the UK with T1?
Yes – but post-Brexit, additional steps are required. We can advise on this process.

What happens if T1 is not closed?
Customs duties may be charged in Poland – that’s why we manage every procedure from A to Z.