The new H1 import system: the definitive transformation of European Union customs

Since the entry into force of the Union Customs Code (UCC) in 2015, European customs have been immersed in a profound process of transformation and standardization. The goal is clear: to ensure that in the near future, any customs procedure can be carried out in a harmonized and centralized manner throughout the EU, with a common data exchange model among all operators.

After the successful transitions already carried out in recent years —such as the H2 system for customs warehousing, the AES system for export, or NCTS5 for transit— it is now time to implement the H1 message, which will replace the current import SAD (Single Administrative Document).

What does the new H1 system mean?

H1 introduces a completely renewed import system, bringing substantial changes both in electronic messages and in the data structure to be declared.

Some of the main new features are:

- New mandatory fields that were not previously included in the SAD.

- Disaggregation of documents that used to be grouped in box 44, now distributed across more specific sections.

- Elimination of the DV1 declaration, which until now was used to reflect customs value adjustments.

- Modular data structure, organized into groups and elements, in line with the most recent European systems.

In addition, this new model does not have a predefined PDF format. Each operator can offer their own print configuration to display the declared data. As we did with previous transitions, we have chosen to maintain a design very similar to the traditional SAD, in order to make documents easier to understand and reduce the impact on users.

Implementation schedule

Mandatory implementation is set for October 14, 2025, although companies may start working earlier to ease the transition. In fact, getting ahead in using the system is advisable, since during this preliminary phase the Administration’s technical services are more available to resolve issues than on the actual day of the mass transition. For this reason, we have chosen to carry out the transition on September 10.

Impact for operators

For companies and customs representatives, the shift to H1 is a major challenge. We have not only had to adapt our systems to a new data structure, but also train staff and modify internal procedures.

Importers will notice changes in the documentation you receive: although the content will be more detailed and structured differently, we have kept the print design as close as possible to the classic SAD, so that adaptation is straightforward and clarity in data interpretation is not lost.

On the other hand, the elimination of the DV1 and the expansion of the required fields increase companies’ responsibility in accurately declaring all elements affecting customs value.

Links for further information

- New H1 import system – schedule and details

- Simplified declarations and key procedures (EIR, pre-declarations, CCI)

- Mandatory H1 announcement from October 2025

- Official AEAT technical guide with deadlines and regulations


At Samper, we have prepared everything so that this transition affects you as little as possible, and with that goal in mind we will be working in the coming days. For any questions or issues you may detect, we remain at your disposal, as always, to clarify and resolve them.


Thank you very much, as always, for your trust.