Import Agreement Template for Germany

An Import Agreement sets out the terms and conditions for bringing goods into Germany from foreign markets. These contracts establish key details like product specifications, quantities, pricing, delivery schedules, and compliance with German customs regulations and EU trade laws.

Under German commercial law (Handelsgesetzbuch), these agreements must clearly define responsibilities for import duties, VAT payments, and documentation requirements. They typically include provisions for quality inspections, transfer of risk according to Incoterms rules, and dispute resolution procedures. Small businesses often use standardized import agreements, while larger companies may negotiate custom terms with their international suppliers.

Use an Import Agreement when establishing new trade relationships with suppliers outside Germany, especially for regular shipments or high-value goods. This becomes essential before placing your first order, as it protects both parties and ensures compliance with German customs law and EU trade regulations.

The agreement proves particularly valuable when dealing with complex products requiring specific quality standards, when coordinating multiple shipments over time, or when importing from countries with different legal systems. German companies often implement these agreements during supply chain expansion, when switching suppliers, or when entering new product markets that require careful documentation of import terms.

• Basic Import Agreements for standard goods shipments focus on core terms like pricing, quantities, and delivery schedules
• Framework Import Agreements establish long-term relationships with recurring shipments and flexible order quantities
• Industry-Specific Agreements contain specialized terms for sectors like pharmaceuticals, food, or automotive parts
• Exclusive Import Agreements grant sole distribution rights in German territories
• Tripartite Import Agreements involve manufacturers, importers, and logistics partners, common in complex supply chains

• German Importing Companies: Businesses that purchase and bring foreign goods into Germany, responsible for negotiating terms and ensuring customs compliance
• Foreign Suppliers: Manufacturers or distributors outside Germany who agree to sell and ship products under specified conditions
• Customs Brokers: Professionals who handle import documentation and ensure compliance with German and EU regulations
• Legal Counsel: Attorneys who draft and review agreements to protect clients' interests and ensure compliance with German trade laws
• Logistics Partners: Transportation companies and freight forwarders who coordinate product delivery according to agreement terms

• Supplier Details: Gather complete company information, tax ID numbers, and authorized representatives from your foreign partner
• Product Specifications: Document detailed descriptions, quantities, quality standards, and technical requirements
• Pricing Structure: Define costs, payment terms, currency, and any volume-based discounts
• Delivery Terms: Specify Incoterms, shipping schedules, and customs clearance responsibilities
• Compliance Check: Review German import regulations and EU trade requirements for your specific products
• Risk Management: Outline quality inspection procedures, warranty terms, and dispute resolution mechanisms

• Party Information: Full legal names, addresses, and registration details of both importer and supplier
• Product Details: Precise description of goods, quantities, technical specifications, and quality standards
• Commercial Terms: Pricing, payment conditions, and currency specifications under German commercial law
• Delivery Provisions: Incoterms, shipping schedules, and transfer of risk provisions
• Regulatory Compliance: References to relevant EU import regulations and German customs requirements
• Dispute Resolution: Choice of German law, jurisdiction, and arbitration procedures
• Force Majeure: Events excusing performance under German civil code (BGB)

Import Agreements are often confused with Agency Agreement, but they serve distinct purposes in German trade law. While both deal with international business relationships, their scope and legal implications differ significantly.

• Primary Purpose: Import Agreements focus on the direct purchase and transfer of goods across borders, while Agency Agreements establish a relationship where one party represents another in market activities
• Legal Structure: Import Agreements primarily govern specific transactions and logistics, whereas Agency Agreements create ongoing commercial representation rights
• Risk Allocation: Import Agreements detail customs responsibilities and product liability, while Agency Agreements focus on commission structures and market development
• Regulatory Framework: Import Agreements must comply with EU customs regulations, while Agency Agreements fall under German commercial agency laws (Handelsvertreterrecht)