Step 3: Export Permit

A Shipping Application must be lodged with the AWBC at least 10 days prior to shipment. If the AWBC authorises the consignment, it will provide a permit number for application of the EDN (Exit Declaration Number) from the Australian Customs Service. The AWBC charges a processing fee.

A VI1 Certificate is required for wine being sent to the EU. Exporters also should be aware of any country or region specific requirements. See the Export Market Guide. Some countries or importers also require import certificates.

VI1 Certificate for the EU

The EU only accepts wine accompanied by a VI1 Certificate, although exemptions apply for small quantities, personal wine collections or samples for use at trade fairs.

When a Shipping Application is submitted, exporters must provide the EU labels and a VI1 Certificate of Analysis for each product. The analysis can be obtained from any NATA-accredited laboratory approved by the AWBC. Information and charges are obtainable from the individual laboratories.

Two bottles of wine must be provided to obtain the analysis. Exporters should specify whether the wine is a “special late harvested” style or is to be exported in bulk, as the testing process differs.

The AWBC will issue the VI1 Certificate if and when an export permit is granted and charges a production fee for each VI1.

The exporter will receive two original certificates five days after the date of departure, although for airfreight they can be issued on or before the departure date. The original certificates must then be forwarded to the agent in the EU.

Exemptions

Under EU Regulations, a VI1 Certificate is not required for:

• Products in containers of five litres or less forming part of a consignment of less than 100 litres (where a “consignment” is one or more products listed on a bill of lading or air consignment note addressed to a single consignee).
• Quantities of 30 litres or less carried in the luggage of travellers, or sent in small lots to private individuals for personal consumption.
• Wines forming part of the belongings of private individuals moving house (with household goods).
• Wines for trade fairs qualifying for exemption with Customs. Samples should be clearly and indelibly marked with ‘Sample Only – Not For Re-Sale’. The samples must be free of charge to the public and consumed at the exhibition.