Filing intrastat in Spain

Intrastat is used within the European Union (EU) to monitor the trade of goods between member states. Established in 1993, following the removal of customs borders within the EU, Intrastat serves as the primary means of collecting trade data, replacing the customs declarations that were previously used for this purpose. It is crucial for businesses engaged in intra-EU trade to understand their obligations under Intrastat, as compliance is not only a legal requirement but also essential for accurate economic analysis and policy-making within the EU.

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What is "Intrastat"?
Who is Required to File Intrastat Declarations?
What Information is Required for Intrastat Declarations?
Importance of Accurate Intrastat Reporting
How Can We Help?

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What is "Intrastat"?

Intrastat is the system for collecting statistical data on the trade of goods between EU member states. Unlike trade with non-EU countries, which is tracked through customs documentation, trade within the EU is monitored through Intrastat declarations. These declarations provide detailed information on the goods being moved across borders, including the type of goods, their value, quantity, and the countries of dispatch and destination.

It is important to note that Intrastat only applies to the movement of goods, not services. This means that businesses engaged solely in the provision of services are not required to submit Intrastat declarations. However, any business trading physical goods within the EU must assess whether they meet the reporting thresholds established by each member state.

Who is Required to File Intrastat Declarations?

The obligation to file Intrastat declarations falls on businesses that exceed certain thresholds of intra-EU trade. These thresholds are determined individually by each EU member state and can differ depending on whether the business is dispatching (exporting) or receiving (importing) goods. In Spain, for instance, the thresholds are updated annually and businesses that surpass these limits must file monthly Intrastat reports.

For non-Spanish businesses trading goods with Spain, it’s essential to monitor their trade volumes closely. If their trade with Spanish companies exceeds the threshold, they are required to file Intrastat declarations with the Spanish authorities. Failing to do so can result in penalties and fines, as Intrastat reporting is a legal obligation under EU law.

What Information is Required for Intrastat Declarations?

An Intrastat declaration must include detailed information about the goods being traded. This includes:

Description of Goods: A clear description of the items being traded.
Commodity Code: The appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code that classifies the goods.
Value: The statistical value of the goods, usually the invoice value adjusted for transport and insurance costs.
Quantity: The net mass of the goods, often measured in kilograms.
Partner Country: The EU member state of dispatch or destination.
Delivery Terms: The terms under which the goods are being traded, such as FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight).
Nature of Transaction: The type of transaction, such as sale, transfer, or consignment.

Importance of Accurate Intrastat Reporting

Accurate Intrastat reporting is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures compliance with EU regulations, helping businesses avoid potential fines and legal issues. Secondly, the data collected through Intrastat is used by EU and national authorities to analyze trade patterns, inform economic policy, and make decisions that affect businesses operating within the EU.

Inaccurate or incomplete reporting can lead to distorted data, which may impact decision-making at both the business and governmental levels. Therefore, it is in every business's interest to ensure that their Intrastat declarations are timely and accurate.

How Can We Help?

Navigating the complexities of Intrastat reporting can be challenging, especially for businesses new to intra-EU trade. At Strong Law, we offer comprehensive services to assist you with filing your monthly Intrastat reports in Spain. Our experienced team is well-versed in the latest EU regulations and Spanish requirements, ensuring that your business remains compliant and that your reporting is accurate and on time.