Release for free circulation is the customs operation that allows non-EU goods to enter the European single market after payment of import duties and VAT. At the Port of Bari we assist Italian and foreign importers at every step: from submitting the customs declaration to physical container pickup at the quay, through to final release of the goods.
When you need it
Every time you import goods from a non-EU country — Turkey, Albania, Egypt, Tunisia or any other origin — destined for resale or processing in Italy or another Member State. This typically involves maritime containers arriving at the Bari terminal, but also groupage cargoes and goods coming in on ferry routes. For products subject to excise duty (fuels, alcohol, tobacco) and for sensitive categories (food, chemicals, textiles) we also handle the sanitary and phytosanitary border controls.
How we operate at the Port of Bari
We receive advance documentation from the importer or the freight forwarder and prepare the customs declaration (SAD form) by submitting it through the AIDA system of the Italian Customs Agency. We verify tariff classification (TARIC code), preferential origin, customs value and quantity. Once the goods are cleared, we coordinate directly with the terminal operator at the quay for container pickup, accompanying the procedure all the way to the exit gate.
When goods are selected for document check, scan or physical inspection with opening, we assist the operator at every stage: scheduling the officer, accompanying the inspection, managing downtime. Our physical presence at Molo S. Vito allows us to respond same-day to any unexpected issue.
Documents required
- Commercial invoice — with goods description, value, Incoterms.
- Packing list — package count, gross and net weight, dimensions.
- Transport document — Bill of Lading for sea freight, CMR for groupage.
- Certificate of origin — EUR.1, ATR, Form A or chamber-of-commerce certificate, where preferential tariffs apply.
- Sanitary or CE certifications — when required by product regulations (food, electrical equipment, toys, chemicals).
Timing & operation
For complete declarations without physical inspection, clearance happens same-day — often within a few hours of document submission. When document checks or physical inspections are involved, timing depends on the customs office schedule; in those cases we provide real-time updates to the importer. We operate Monday to Friday during Customs office hours and, on request, extended hours for urgent traffic.
Why Bamas
For over thirty years we have been present at the Port of Bari with a team of specialized operators. We know the procedures of the local Customs Territorial Operating Section, we have direct relationships with Customs officers, terminal operators and the Financial Police. The result: faster timing, fewer errors and fewer surprises on the final shipment cost.
