Why Bremerhaven for timber imports?
Bremerhaven is one of Europe's largest universal ports, bundling container services from Scandinavia, the Baltics, North and South America and the Far East. For timber traders and importers this matters because many carriers call directly, avoiding time-consuming feeder loops. Short distances between quay, customs bays and warehouse reduce the risk of demurrage.
As a family business since 1992 we are located directly at the Container Terminal Bremerhaven, are AEO-C certified and operate over 14,000 m² of our own weather-protected storage plus our own fleet. This lets us control the terminal process, clearance, container stripping and distribution as one continuous chain.
Step 1: Arrival and vessel tracking
A smooth import begins long before arrival. Through vessel tracking we keep an eye on the vessel's ETA and align the terminal slot and truck dispatch early, so the container can be collected promptly after discharge instead of incurring costly terminal time.
Complete documentation is essential: bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list and – depending on wood species and origin – certificates of origin or phytosanitary certificates. A missing document delays release and free terminal days run out faster than many expect.
Step 2: Terminal processes and release
After discharge the container must be released at the terminal. This includes payment or release by the carrier, the THC (terminal handling charges) and booking a pick-up slot. Only once all customs and carrier holds are lifted may the container leave the terminal.
Proximity to the terminal pays off here: the distance from the terminal to our yard is only a few kilometres, so we can react quickly to short-notice slot releases.
Step 3: Import clearance with ATLAS
Import clearance in Germany runs electronically via the customs ATLAS system. For wood the commodity codes of chapter 44 of the Combined Nomenclature apply (e.g. sawn timber under 4407, plywood and panels under 4412). Correct classification determines the third-country duty rate and possible preferences.
On import, in addition to any duty, import VAT applies, which can usually be reclaimed as input tax. Many softwood sawn timbers from third countries carry a low or zero duty rate, while processed panels may attract different rates – the exact amount depends on commodity code, origin and preferential agreements and should be checked in advance.
As an AEO-C certified operator we handle the customs declaration, the issuing of transit papers (T1) and communication with customs. More on our Customs clearance page.
Step 4: EUDR – the new deforestation regulation
The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR, Regulation (EU) 2023/1115) applies to wood and wood products. It obliges operators to submit a due diligence statement in the EU information system for relevant commodities – including wood – and to prove that the goods are deforestation-free and legally produced.
The core is geolocation: for every delivery the coordinates of the production plots must be captured and available via a reference number. Without a valid EUDR reference the import can be blocked. Importers should therefore clarify due diligence early with their suppliers – responsibility lies with the operator placing goods on the market, not the forwarder. We support the documentary integration into the customs process.
Step 5: Container stripping and damage records
After clearance the container is unloaded in our own hall (container stripping). Sawn timber and panels often arrive in demanding stowage situations; our forklift crews are trained in gentle unloading. Transport damage, moisture or breakage are documented photographically on the spot – important for later claims against shipper or insurer.
Step 6: Dry storage and DACH distribution
Timber is a living material and sensitive to moisture. In our weather-protected halls the goods are buffered dry and sorted by grade until called off. We also consolidate deliveries from several suppliers into one transport. Details on space and handling on our Warehousing & handling page.
Distribution runs via our own fleet on DACH day trips – from the southern German sawmill to the Austrian parquet manufacturer, optionally as just-in-time delivery to the plant ramp. We describe the full timber service range on our Timber logistics page.
- Vessel tracking and early slot booking against demurrage
- Check complete documents before arrival
- Ensure correct classification (CN chapter 44)
- Prepare EUDR due diligence with geolocation
- Document damage immediately during stripping
- Dry, grade-sorted storage until call-off
Frequently asked questions on timber import
How long does customs clearance in Bremerhaven take?
With complete documents an import declaration via ATLAS is usually processed within one working day. Delays almost always stem from missing documents, unclear classification or open EUDR evidence.
Which documents do I need for a timber import?
The basis is the bill of lading, commercial invoice and packing list. Depending on species and origin, certificates of origin or phytosanitary certificates are added. For wood an EUDR due diligence statement with geolocation is also required.
What does EUDR mean for timber importers?
The EU Deforestation Regulation requires proof that wood is deforestation-free and legal. Importers must submit a due diligence statement with geo-coordinates of the production plots. Without a valid reference number the import can be stopped.
What costs should I expect?
Besides freight and THC, there are typically duty (depending on commodity code and origin), import VAT and costs for stripping, storage and distribution. The exact amount depends on volume, species and dwell time – we calculate this transparently per shipment.