Import & Customs Disclaimer
What you need to know before importing robots across borders.
1. Your responsibility
Importing robots, drone systems and autonomous platforms involves customs declarations, import duties, value-added tax (VAT) and regulatory compliance. You, as the importer, are responsible for understanding and satisfying the requirements of the destination country. Astrabotics publishes general guidance but cannot provide legal or customs advice.
2. Customs duties and VAT
Prices displayed on Astrabotics are typically excluding local VAT and import duties unless explicitly stated otherwise. When a robot crosses a border, your country's customs authority may assess:
- Import duties (customs tariffs)
- Value-added tax (VAT) or goods and services tax (GST)
- Customs processing fees
- Brokerage or agent fees
These charges are your responsibility and are not included in the listed product price unless the product page explicitly states "all taxes and duties included."
3. CE marking and regulatory compliance
In the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, many robots must carry CE marking to be placed on the market legally. Astrabotics displays CE status where known, but CE marking is the manufacturer's responsibility. The presence of a CE entry in our database does not constitute certification or legal verification.
If you are importing into a non-EEA country, your local regulations (FCC for the United States, IC for Canada, CCC for China, etc.) may apply instead of or in addition to CE.
4. Battery transport
Most mobile robots contain lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. These are classified as dangerous goods under international transport regulations (UN 38.3, IATA, IMDG). Transport restrictions apply to:
- Battery capacity (Wh limit)
- Number of batteries per shipment
- State of charge restrictions
- Packaging and labelling requirements
- Carrier-specific rules (air vs sea vs road)
Manufacturers are responsible for compliant battery shipment. If you are arranging your own freight, you must ensure compliance with applicable dangerous-goods regulations.
5. Dual-use and export control
Some robots, especially those with advanced autonomy, sensors and AI, may be subject to dual-use export controls under EU Regulation 2021/821, the Wassenaar Arrangement or national export control lists. Export licenses may be required depending on the destination country, end user and intended use. You are responsible for obtaining any required licenses.
6. Local usage restrictions
Even if a robot can be imported, its operation may be restricted in your jurisdiction. Restrictions may apply to:
- Public spaces and sidewalks
- Workplace safety (machinery directive, OSHA equivalents)
- Privacy and surveillance (GDPR, local camera laws)
- Autonomous navigation and AI decision-making
- Military, police or security applications
7. Warranty and service
Manufacturer warranties may be geographically limited. A warranty valid in the EU may not apply in Asia, South America or North America. Check the manufacturer's warranty terms and confirm whether they provide service, spare parts and technical support in your country before importing.