Many citizens returning from abroad bring various goods with them, expecting customs to classify them as items for personal use. However, not all items automatically fall into this category. Let us consider the situation using the example of a Drager Safeguard helmet that one person wishes to pass on through an acquaintance for personal use.

Who decides the status of the goods

The decision on classifying goods transported by an individual across the customs border as items for personal use is made by a customs official directly while performing customs operations at the point of crossing. In doing so, all circumstances of the trip and the results of customs control are taken into account.

When the helmet may not be recognized as an item for personal use

If an individual transports a Drager Safeguard helmet to another person and there are indications that it is intended for professional use by firefighters and rescue services, this item may not be classified as an item for personal use.

What happens if the item is not recognized as personal

With respect to an item not classified as for personal use, when imported into the customs territory of the Eurasian Economic Union, the norms of customs legislation apply as to goods moved in commercial circulation. Such an item must be placed at the point of crossing the customs border under one of the customs procedures provided for by the EAEU Customs Code.

Possible customs procedures

• Release for domestic consumption: customs payments must be made at the rates established for legal entities.
• Customs transit: the item is delivered to the customs authority nearest to the place of residence for the purpose of subsequent declaration in compliance with the stated norms.

Additional requirements

When placing the item under the item under the customs procedure of release for domestic consumption, compliance with technical regulation measures and a special restrictive measure established by the Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus dated 31 December 2025