Prolight + Sound is the world's largest professional audio, lighting, and live entertainment technology trade fair, drawing 50,000 industry professionals from 140+ countries to Messe Frankfurt each April. US manufacturers of line arrays, wireless mic systems, digital consoles, LED lighting fixtures, and stage rigging exhibit alongside global competitors. Non-EU exhibitors — including all US companies — need an ATA Carnet to bring professional equipment into Germany without paying EU import duties.
US and other non-EU exhibitors at Prolight + Sound need an ATA Carnet covering professional equipment and exhibition goods. Germany accepts carnets for all standard ATA categories including audio systems, lighting fixtures, signal processing hardware, and broadcast equipment. The carnet is valid for 12 months — the same document can cover Prolight + Sound in April and IBC Amsterdam in September.
Prolight + Sound is held in Germany. Review the specific ATA Carnet requirements, accepted uses, and entry procedures for Germany before you travel.
Full Germany Carnet Guide6 weeks before Prolight + Sound (February)
Begin equipment list. Line array systems, amplifiers, and lighting rigs require serial numbers and accurate USD values. Coordinate sea freight if shipping large PA systems.
4 weeks before
Submit carnet application. Germany requires precise descriptions — manufacturer, model, and serial number for each speaker cabinet, amp rack, and console.
2 weeks before
Receive carnet. Authorize your German freight forwarder to present it at FRA cargo or Messe Frankfurt on your behalf.
Arrival at FRA
Present carnet to German Zoll at Frankfurt Airport. Officers stamp importation vouchers. Messe Frankfurt is a 10-minute drive from FRA.
Prolight + Sound show days (approximately 4 days)
Keep carnet accessible at your stand. Zoll may verify high-value audio and lighting systems on the floor.
Departure from Germany
Obtain re-exportation stamps from Zoll before equipment leaves Germany. Essential for discharge.
Within 2 weeks of return
Return completed carnet to EasyCarnet for USCIB or Canadian Chamber discharge.
Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Primary gateway — German Zoll at FRA is experienced with Messe Frankfurt freight; Prolight + Sound runs alongside other Messe Frankfurt spring events including ISE Germany overlap and co-located shows
Messe Frankfurt
Prolight + Sound venue, directly adjacent to Frankfurt city and a 10-minute drive from FRA; one of Europe's most logistics-efficient fairgrounds
Ready to apply?
Starting at $499 for equipment under $10k. Same-day processing available.
Start ApplicationStarting at $499 for equipment valued under $10k. Same-day processing available for last-minute bookings.