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How-to Ship to Germany Guide
Your guide to shipping to Germany
Overview
Europe’s largest economy and the fourth-largest in the world according to GDP, Germany is an economic powerhouse. And as a founding member of the European Union (EU), the country plays a vital role in the political might of the EU. Its influence on the world stage can’t be overestimated.
Capital: Berlin
Population: 80,457,737 (July 2018 est.)
Area: 357,022 sq. km
Language: German
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Major industries include iron, steel, coal, cement, chemicals, machinery, vehicles, machine tools, electronics, automobiles, food and beverages, shipbuilding, textiles.
Source: CIA World Factbook
Your primer on entering this market begins with a few insights on how business is done.
Healthcare
By 2050, Germany’s over-50 population is expected to be in the majority. This aging demographic has driven growth in the country’s appetite for healthcare imports. Germany is the largest importer of medical devices in Europe and the third largest worldwide. This creates a growing marketplace for healthcare suppliers with a focus on high-tech imaging, data management, telemedicine and minimally invasive surgical procedures. And once a product meets EU regulations, it opens up not only Germany, but also the entire EU market.
Market Entry
Innovation and style. These are factors that German buyers are drawn to when purchasing U.S. goods. From computers and electronics to healthcare and automotive technology, quality sells. And with Internet usage growing in Germany, new multimedia, high-tech and service products will only gain in popularity. When backed by competitive prices and local support after the sale, these goods can help give U.S. companies an edge over German firms to speak the language consumers respond to. Yet, despite a common desire for quality and style, exporters must also be aware of the diverse tastes and interests of the German states. As part of a national presence and marketing strategy, regional differences should be top of mind.
Source: Export.gov
Getting Started
Visit our international shipping section for step-by-step instructions on how to ship, including:
- Select a shipping service
- Choose a billing option
- Prepare your shipping label
- Create required documentation
- Entrust it to UPS for delivery
- Track your shipment
Need Help?
UPS in Germany
Established: 1976
Employees: 20,000+
Flights: 42 flights per day to destinations in Europe and worldwide
Air Hubs: Berlin, Cologne and Munich
Delivery Fleet: More than 3,800 (package cars, vans and tractors)
Operating Facilities: 75
Essential Information
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Import/Export
Use this UPS Country or Territory Regulations tool to find all of the specific documentation and regulations that may affect your international shipments.
• Import and export forms
• Customs clearance information and duties and taxes
• Areas served
• Billing options
• Gift exemptions
• Invoice requirements
• Items classified as documents
• Prohibited or restricted items
• Transportation options
• Special clearance requirements
• Value limits
• Weight and size limits -
Customs Brokerage
Our expertise with Germany’s unique documentation and customs requirements may help to reduce the chance of delays and extra fees. We offer 24/7 customs services with commodity and security inspections, smooth entry into the country and clearance procedures that begin before our planes land.
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UPS® Services
With UPS, your shipments will arrive when they’re needed, wherever they’re needed around the world.
• Package and freight transportation
• Calculate time and cost -
UPS Capital®
UPS Capital offers a suite of financial and insurance services to help protect your bottom line and grow your top line. Options for exporters can include cargo insurance and trade credit insurance which can help mitigate the risks of selling globally.
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