Starting July 1, 2024, Romania officially implemented a new regulation affecting all cross-border transportation of medium-to-high value/weight goods – the Unique Transport Identifier (UIT). 

For shippers and logistics companies engaged in China-Europe trade, especially those involving the Romanian market, understanding and complying with the UIT regulations has become essential to ensuring smooth cargo transportation and avoiding delays and fines.

I. What is UIT?

UIT (Unique Identification Transport) is a unique code generated by the Romanian Electronic Transport System for each declared shipment. It is used to track the entire journey of goods within Romanian territory.

It is a legal requirement. Since July 1, 2024, goods meeting the threshold must have a valid UIT code when undergoing relevant Romanian customs procedures (e.g., entry, exit); otherwise, the process cannot proceed.

Through this code, Romanian authorities can access the following information in real-time:

      Detailed information of the shipper and consignee

      Specific description, characteristics, quantity, and customs value of the goods

      Loading and unloading locations

      Means of transport used

Essentially, it achieves full digital filing of the entire cargo transportation process.

II. Why Apply for UIT?

This regulation aims to strengthen the tracking and supervision of domestic cargo transportation through an electronic system.

A UIT must be applied for if the total value of the goods exceeds 10,000 Romanian Leu (RON) (approximately 2,000 Euros) or the total weight exceeds 500 kilograms. Meeting either condition triggers the requirement.

Scope of Application: Mainly involves commercial cargo transportation entering Romania, exiting Romania, and under specific circumstances, transportation within Romania.

III. How to Apply for UIT?

Applicant: Usually the party responsible for customs declaration in Romania (e.g., freight forwarder, customs broker, or consignee) must make the declaration in the Romanian National Electronic Transport System.

Basic Process: Access the Romanian Tax Authority website ANAF (https://www.anaf.ro) → Register an SPV (Spatiul Privat Virtual) account and log in to RO e-Transport → Complete the full transport declaration information (some information provided by the logistics carrier) → The system automatically generates the UIT code → Provide this code to all relevant parties (e.g., carrier, buyer/seller, distributor).

IV. What are the Important Points to Note?

Short Validity Period: The UIT code is valid for only 15 calendar days from its generation. Relevant transportation and customs procedures must be completed within this validity period. It is recommended to apply 3 days before the transport begins.

No Extensions: This is one of the most important rules. Once a UIT expires, it cannot be extended. The only solution is: void the original code and submit a new declaration in the system for the same batch of goods to obtain a brand new UIT code. This will incur additional time and administrative costs.

Accurate Information: The declared information must strictly match all documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, etc. Any discrepancies may trigger inspections or issues.

The implementation of Romania's UIT system is a microcosm of the broader trend towards digitalized supply chain supervision in the EU and globally. It front-loads and makes compliance requirements transparent. Although there will be initial learning and adaptation costs, in the long run, standardized data flow helps improve overall trade efficiency and traceability.

Understanding it, adapting to it, and utilizing it effectively will make your journey of goods to the Eastern European market smoother. It is recommended to bookmark this article and share it with your business partners to jointly build a compliant and efficient cross-border logistics system.