Customs plays a vital role in road traffic, not just at borders. However, what officers are allowed to do during a traffic stop often causes uncertainty. This article clarifies your questions about the rights and obligations of customs in road traffic.
What Does “Customs Control” Mean in Road Traffic?
A customs control in road traffic means that customs officers are authorized to check vehicles and individuals. This serves to enforce customs and tax regulations, as well as to combat crime. Customs looks for smuggled goods, illegal substances, and checks compliance with regulations, such as the toll requirement for trucks.
What is Customs Allowed to Check?
Customs officers have extensive powers. They are allowed to stop vehicles, check papers (driver’s license, vehicle registration), search the vehicle and luggage, and even question people.
In detail, customs officers are allowed to check the following:
- Vehicle Documents: Driver’s license, vehicle registration, and possibly the green insurance card.
- Identity: Identity card or passport.
- Load and Luggage: Here, they search for smuggled goods, illegal substances, or other prohibited items.
- Cash: For larger cash amounts, customs can check the origin of the money.
- Vehicle Itself: Customs can inspect the vehicle for technical defects that impair road safety.
Limits of Customs Control
Despite their extensive powers, customs officers are also bound by laws. They are not allowed to act arbitrarily without concrete suspicion. A control must be proportionate. “As Professor Dr. Hans Müller emphasizes in his book ‘Customs in Road Traffic,’ the suspicion of a customs offense must be justified to warrant a control,” says the expert.
Customs officers check vehicle documents during a traffic stop
Tips for Dealing with Customs
Stay calm and polite. Present your documents without being asked. Answer the officers’ questions truthfully. A cooperative attitude facilitates the control and shortens the duration.
What to Do in Case of Problems?
If you feel unfairly treated, note down the names of the officers and the service number. You have the right to contact the next higher authority and file a complaint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is customs allowed to check my cell phone? Yes, under certain circumstances, e.g., in case of suspected undeclared work or smuggling.
- Do I have to get out of the car during a customs check? Yes, if the officers ask you to do so.
- Is customs allowed to search my trunk without my presence? No, usually not. You should be present during the search.
Related Topics
- Vehicle control by the police
- Rights and obligations in road traffic
Customs vehicle stops a car for a roadside check
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Conclusion
Customs controls in road traffic are important for safety and law enforcement. If you know what customs is allowed to do and what not, you can participate in road traffic safely and relaxed. Stay cooperative and, in case of doubt, inform yourself about your rights.
