How to ship IT equipment to Serbia

CURRENCY

Serbian Dinar (RSD)

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

Serbian

TIME ZONE

Central European Time (CET), GMT+01:00

Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving time

CUSTOMS DUTY ON ELECTRONICS

20% VAT

Typically 20% VAT on imported goods

SHIPPING LEAD TIME

3-7 days

(depending on location and shipping method)

IT OUTSOURCING MARKET

€1.5 billion

Projected to reach €1.5 billion in 2025, continuing its strong growth trend

Digital innovation leader: Serbia is not just catching up with the digital age—it’s leading the charge. More and more of the population has internet access at home. The push for digital transformation is particularly strong in sectors like fintech, e-commerce, and tech startups, with public and private sector initiatives driving growth. This makes Serbia a fantastic place for businesses looking to expand in a digitally forward environment.

Advanced IT infrastructure: Serbia is rapidly building up its IT infrastructure. With high-speed internet becoming the norm and an increasing number of data centers popping up, Serbia is positioning itself as a key player for businesses that need reliable cloud computing, hosting services, and overall digital infrastructure.

Sustainability focus: Sustainability is at the heart of Serbia’s tech scene. The government is backing efforts to reduce the tech industry's carbon footprint and encouraging companies to adopt eco-friendly IT solutions. As global businesses focus on sustainable practices, Serbia’s growing commitment to green technology makes it a wise choice for operations looking to make a positive environmental impact.

Skilled workforce: Serbia has a strong reputation for producing talented IT professionals. Thanks to a focus on advancing tech education, the country produces highly skilled workers in software development, cybersecurity, and systems administration. Companies expanding into Serbia can rely on a top-tier talent pool to drive growth and innovation.

Business-friendly environment: Serbia offers a welcoming business environment, complete with clear regulations, favorable tax policies, and strong protections for intellectual property and data. These factors make it an appealing destination for global tech companies. The open climate also promotes foreign investment and fosters international collaborations, which can help businesses scale and thrive.

Strong cybersecurity framework: As Serbia continues to develop its digital economy, it also strongly emphasizes cybersecurity. With stringent laws and proactive measures, the country protects businesses, critical infrastructure, and personal data against emerging digital threats.

Thriving tech ecosystem: Serbia’s tech ecosystem is alive and well, with cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad becoming vibrant hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship. The rise of venture capital, government incentives, and solid networking opportunities drive the growth of a startup culture primed for business expansion and tech innovation.

Customs regulations

Customs regulations
Serbia, as a member of the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) and aligning with EU rules, follows specific standards for imports. Your shipment must adhere to local laws, and proper documentation, classification, and duties must be handled before customs clearance.
Serbian Customs Authority
The Serbian Customs Administration is in charge of ensuring that all imported goods meet national and EU regulations. Their job includes inspecting shipments, verifying declarations' correctness, and ensuring all customs duties and taxes are paid before clearance. If you’re shipping to Serbia for the first time, working with an experienced logistics partner who can guide you through this process is helpful.

Duties and taxes

Customs duties: Import duties for IT equipment in Serbia generally range between 0% to 5%, depending on the product's classification under the Harmonized System (HS) codes. For instance, laptops may be duty-free, while peripherals like accessories might incur a small charge.
HS codes: Every item you ship will have an assigned Harmonized System (HS) Code, which determines the customs duty rate. If you get this right, you won’t have to worry about overpaying for duties. So, make sure you check the correct HS Code for each item.
VAT: The standard VAT rate in Serbia is 20%. This tax applies to most goods, including IT equipment, and is calculated on the total cost of the product, including shipping fees and customs duties.
VAT exemptions: While IT products generally don’t qualify for VAT exemptions, certain goods like energy-efficient or medical devices may be eligible for specific VAT exemptions. It's important to double-check the specific product classification to avoid any surprises.

Required documentation

Commercial Invoice: This document outlines the value and description of the items being shipped.
Packing List: A detailed list of the shipment's contents, quantities, and packaging specifics.
Bill of Lading (BOL) or Airway Bill: This document confirms the shipment and transportation of goods.
Customs Declaration Form: This form outlines the specifics of shipments from non-EU countries and is required for all shipments.
Certificate of Origin: In some cases, you may need this to prove where the items originated from.
Import License: This is required only for specific items, such as military technology or goods that are under export control regulations.

Import restrictions

Export control regulations: Items like encryption software or military-grade equipment may require an export license. Before shipping, make sure to check whether your shipment falls under these regulations.
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations: Serbia adheres to the EU’s WEEE directive, which governs the recycling and disposal of electronic waste. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory when shipping used or refurbished IT equipment. You’ll need to ensure that your equipment meets Serbia’s standards for e-waste management.
Battery regulations: IT equipment with lithium-ion batteries must be packaged and labeled in compliance with specific shipping regulations, which include marking the items as dangerous goods. Make sure to consult with your carrier to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

New vs. Used equipment

New IT equipment: Shipping new equipment is straightforward. Duties and VAT (20%) apply based on the value of the products. Be sure to declare the total value of the goods to ensure accurate duty and tax calculations.
Used or refurbished IT equipment: If you're shipping used or refurbished IT equipment, there are additional rules to follow. Not only do you have to comply with the WEEE regulations, but you also need to ensure that all items are well-documented for compliance. Be prepared to provide proof of participation in recycling programs, especially for older or previously used equipment.

Customs clearance process

Customs declarations: All shipments, whether from EU or non-EU countries, need to go through customs declarations. The shipper or a customs broker can do this. It’s important that the declaration accurately reflects the value, origin, and description of the goods.
Clearance: After all the necessary documents are submitted, the duties and taxes are paid, and if needed, an inspection is carried out. Once this process is completed, the shipment can be delivered.

Penalties or fines for non-compliance

Fines: Companies that fail to comply with regulations, especially e-waste disposal, may face fines ranging from minor penalties to significant financial consequences. In cases of improper disposal of IT equipment or failure to use certified recycling services, fines could be substantial.
Legal consequences: Mishandling IT equipment can also result in legal action. For instance, the company could face civil penalties or lawsuits if personal data is not erased correctly from devices. Violating GDPR about shipping devices with sensitive data could result in heavy fines, reaching up to €20 million or 4% of the company's global turnover, whichever is higher.
Environmental fines: Serbia takes environmental protection seriously, and improper handling of e-waste can lead to environmental fines. The country enforces strict laws regarding the recycling and disposal of hazardous substances in electronic equipment, and violators may face penalties.

Select trusted couriers: Choose reliable couriers such as GroWrk, DHL, UPS, FedEx, or Posta Srbije for international shipping. These carriers offer tracking services and have experience handling Serbian customs procedures.
Check service levels: Select the appropriate shipping option based on urgency. Express shipping (3-7 days) for high-priority deliveries. Standard shipping (7-14 days) for cost-effective options.
Use high-quality packaging: Secure laptops with sturdy, padded boxes and protective materials like bubble wrap, foam inserts, or air cushions to prevent damage during transit.
Disassemble where possible: If shipping accessories like chargers, docking stations, or monitors, package them separately to prevent damage. Remove detachable components if applicable.
Label clearly: Ensure the recipient’s name, address, and contact details are correctly labeled. Mark the package as "fragile" to encourage careful handling.
Accurate product descriptions: On the commercial invoice, provide a detailed and accurate description of the laptop, including its brand, model, and serial number. Inaccurate descriptions may cause customs delays.
Value declaration: Declare the correct value of the laptop to avoid under- or over-declaring, which could lead to customs inspections or fines. The declared value determines any applicable duties and taxes.
Customs declarations: All international shipments to Serbia require customs clearance. Include: Serbian Customs Declaration, commercial invoice, and packing list
Proof of origin: If applicable, include a certificate of origin to determine eligibility for preferential trade agreements, which may reduce duties.

Understand import duties & taxes: Laptops may qualify for 0% customs duty depending on trade agreement eligibility but are subject to 20% VAT on the declared value, including shipping costs. Additional customs handling or processing fees may apply.
Pre-pay duties and taxes: Some couriers allow for pre-paid duties and taxes to simplify customs clearance and prevent the recipient from facing unexpected charges upon arrival.
Protect against loss or damage: Consider purchasing shipping insurance for high-value laptops to protect against loss, theft, or damage during transit.
Compliance with Serbian regulations: Ensure compliance with Serbian import and safety standards, including Kvalitet (Quality) and RATEL (Regulatory Agency for Electronic Communications) requirements for laptops with wireless features.
Use tracking tools: Major couriers provide real-time tracking—monitor shipments closely to anticipate customs clearance updates and delivery progress.
Stay in touch with the recipient: Notify the recipient about the expected delivery timeline, tracking updates, and any customs-related requirements to avoid delays.
Expect weather and seasonal delays: Winter weather and peak shipping periods (e.g., Christmas, New Year, Black Friday, Serbian public holidays) may cause delivery delays. Plan shipments accordingly.
Serbian domestic delivery options: For final delivery, consider working with Posta Srbije, BEX Courier, City Express, or Aks Express Kurir for efficient last-mile distribution.

Laptops (Business Grade):

Mid-range: 80,000 - RSD 180,000
High-end: RSD 180,000 - RSD 360,000
High-end models such as Apple MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, and Lenovo ThinkPad are priced on the higher end.

Monitors (Business Grade):

Standard: 25,000 - RSD 50,000
Ultrawide/4K: RSD 60,000 - RSD 120,000
Monitors from trusted brands like Dell, Samsung, and LG typically range within these prices, with 4K or ultrawide models costing more.

Desktops (Business Grade):

Standard Desktop PC: RSD 80,000 - RSD 300,000
Workstation Desktop (for high-performance tasks): RSD 300,000 - RSD 800,000+
Prices depend on the brand and specifications, with options from HP, Lenovo, and Apple among the most common.

Printers (Laser):

Standard Office Printers: RSD 30,000 - RSD 120,000
High-Volume Printers: RSD 150,000 - RSD 450,000
Leading brands such as HP, Canon, and Brother offer a wide range of models for office environments.

Key public holidays in Serbia:
1. New Year’s Day – January 1
2. Orthodox Easter Sunday – Date varies (usually April)
3. Orthodox Easter Monday – The Monday after Easter Sunday
4. Labour Day – May 1
5. Statehood Day – February 15
6. Victory Day – May 9
7. Assumption of the Virgin Mary – August 28
8. All Saints' Day – November 1
9. Armistice Day – November 11
10. Christmas Day – December 25 (Orthodox)
11. Boxing Day – December 26 (Orthodox)

Typical work hours for IT professionals

Standard Workweek
- The typical workweek in Serbia consists of 40 hours, with most employees working from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM or 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
- However, many businesses, especially in the IT sector, now offer more flexibility in work hours, allowing employees to choose their start and finish times as long as they complete the required hours.
Overtime
- Overtime is regulated by law in Serbia, and employees cannot work excessively long hours without compensation. If overtime is needed, employees are entitled to either extra pay or additional time off.
- The law stipulates that the average workweek, including overtime, should not exceed 48 hours. Overtime pay is usually calculated at a higher rate, typically 1.5 times the normal hourly wage, and may be even higher for work on weekends or public holidays.
Public Holiday Work
- While most public holidays in Serbia are celebrated with time off, some businesses, especially in the IT and logistics sectors, may operate with reduced hours or require staff to work.
- If employees are asked to work on a public holiday, they are typically compensated with a premium pay rate or additional time off, ensuring that holiday work is fairly rewarded.

Local delivery and logistics services

GroWrk: GroWrk provides an efficient global logistics solution for retrieving IT equipment. They work with top-tier shipping providers to guarantee a seamless process across Serbia, handling everything from compliance with local regulations to real-time tracking. With GroWrk, you can be confident that your equipment will be safely and promptly delivered, ensuring smooth logistics management from start to finish.
DHL Express Serbia: DHL Express offers expedited shipping within Serbia, ensuring fast, reliable delivery of IT equipment. They provide options for same-day and next-day deliveries, along with secure packaging for sensitive items like laptops and servers. DHL also offers real-time tracking to give you full transparency and peace of mind throughout the entire process.
UPS Serbia: UPS is a trusted name in domestic and international shipping, with a broad network in Serbia. They offer a range of services from standard to expedited delivery, ensuring secure packaging and comprehensive tracking for your IT assets. UPS is ideal for businesses that need reliable, timely deliveries of valuable IT equipment.
GLS Serbia: GLS provides efficient parcel delivery services across Serbia, offering both standard and express options. Their flexible delivery schedules and real-time tracking system ensure reliable, secure handling of IT equipment. GLS is a great choice for businesses that need dependable service to retrieve IT devices promptly and safely.
InPost Serbia: InPost is a cutting-edge logistics company in Serbia, known for its innovative solutions like automated parcel lockers. Offering flexible delivery options, including express services, InPost is well-suited for retrieving IT equipment from remote locations across the country. Their efficient and secure delivery system ensures that your equipment arrives safely, regardless of where it's being sent from.

Inventory management

Update asset records: As IT equipment is retrieved, update your inventory management system to reflect the return of assets. This allows for accurate tracking and reporting of company property.
Use barcodes/asset tags: If possible, use barcode labels or RFID tags for easy identification and tracking of returned assets.

Logistics challenges for remote locations

Longer delivery times: Deliveries to remote areas in Serbia can take longer than expected due to limited infrastructure, fewer local delivery hubs, and less frequent shipping routes. This means your shipment might face delays, especially in regions that are harder to access.
Higher shipping costs: Shipping to rural or isolated locations in Serbia often incurs higher costs. The longer distances involved, the limited number of delivery routes, and the need for special handling to reach these areas all increase shipping expenses.
Limited service availability: Not all logistics providers offer services to Serbia’s more remote regions, and those that do may have less frequent delivery schedules. This can make it challenging to secure timely shipments, requiring careful coordination to ensure your equipment arrives when needed.
Customs and regulatory challenges: While Serbia is not an EU member, local regulations and procedures still need to be followed for shipments, especially in remote areas. Depending on the location, additional clearance steps or specific documentation might be required, which could further delay deliveries if not handled correctly.
Limited tracking updates: For shipments going to more isolated parts of Serbia, tracking updates may be less frequent or unavailable. This can create a challenge when trying to monitor the status of your delivery in real time, leaving you uncertain about when exactly to expect your IT equipment.

Equipment agreement with employees

Ownership and usage: Clearly state that the equipment is the company's property and is to be used exclusively for work-related tasks.
Maintenance and care: Outline the employee's duty to maintain the equipment in good condition, including guidelines for regular upkeep and proper handling.
Data security: Specify protocols for data protection, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and adhering to company security policies.
Return procedures: Define the process for returning equipment upon termination or when it's no longer needed, including timelines and the conditions in which items should be returned.
Liability for damage or loss: Detail the consequences for damage beyond normal wear and tear or failure to return equipment, which may include financial responsibility or other disciplinary actions.

Data wiping

Data wiping: Before disposing of any IT equipment, it’s critical to wipe all data securely. Certified software should be used to erase all data from hard drives, SSDs, or any other storage devices. This guarantees that sensitive information is permanently removed and cannot be retrieved.
Shredding and destruction: For an extra layer of security, consider physically destroying storage devices. Methods like shredding or crushing ensure that no one can access the data stored on the equipment, even if it ends up in the wrong hands.

WEEE compliance (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive)

Certified E-Waste disposal: In Serbia, it’s essential to work with certified e-waste disposal services that align with Serbian regulations and European Union directives, such as the WEEE Directive. These certified services ensure that your equipment is dismantled safely, and hazardous materials like batteries, mercury, and other toxic substances are disposed of responsibly.
Recycling centers: Small electronics can typically be dropped off at local recycling centers. However, specialized disposal services are necessary for larger IT equipment like servers or office-wide machines. These services ensure that your more significant assets are broken down and handled according to legal requirements.

Repurposing IT equipment

Donation to charitable organizations: If your equipment is still working, consider donating it to schools, non-profits, or community organizations in Serbia. Many institutions need functional IT devices, and your donation can help reduce waste while giving back to the community.
Internal repurposing: For companies that regularly upgrade their IT infrastructure, repurposing older devices within the organization can be a great option. Devices no longer needed for critical tasks can be reassigned for less demanding purposes in other departments or used for employee training and development.

Manufacturer take-back programs

Many IT equipment manufacturers in Serbia offer take-back programs, which allow businesses to return old devices for recycling or repurposing. These programs help ensure responsible disposal and are designed to assist companies in complying with both local and international environmental standards.

Certified e-waste recycling providers

When selecting a disposal service, make sure to partner with third-party providers that are certified by relevant Serbian environmental authorities. Certified companies will handle the recycling process properly, ensuring your equipment is disposed of legally and sustainably. Additionally, they will provide the necessary legal documentation and certificates of destruction or recycling, giving you peace of mind that the process has been done correctly.

1. Wide global coverage

Global Expertise with a Local Touch
GroWrk brings a wealth of international experience to Serbia, with a presence in over 150 countries. By understanding the specific dynamics of the Serbian market, we tailor our services to align with local regulations and industry standards, ensuring that your teams in Serbia receive personalized solutions that meet your needs.

2. End-to-end asset management

From procurement to final disposal, GroWrk manages every stage of the IT asset lifecycle. With our hands-on approach to asset management, we take the burden off your shoulders so that you can focus on what really matters—growing your business. Your IT infrastructure in Serbia will be in good hands, freeing up your team to concentrate on their core tasks.

3. Intuitive platform for easy deployment

GroWrk’s platform simplifies the management of IT assets across Serbia. You can track equipment usage, monitor shipments, and deploy assets seamlessly, all in one place. By centralizing these processes, we eliminate any logistical headaches and help your teams in Serbia work more efficiently.

4. Smooth delivery and equipment retrieval

Whether it’s delivering laptops to employees or retrieving equipment when they leave the company, GroWrk ensures smooth and hassle-free logistics. We provide fast, cost-effective services to get your IT assets where they need to be, without adding unnecessary stress to the process.

5. Compliance with Serbian import regulations

GroWrk ensures that every shipment to Serbia complies with local import regulations, including customs procedures and tax laws. From navigating VAT to handling import duties, we take care of all the paperwork, ensuring your IT equipment arrives without a hitch, saving you from costly delays and compliance issues.

6. Efficient repairs and maintenance

We offer efficient repair and maintenance services to keep your devices in top condition. GroWrk helps minimize downtime with quick, reliable repairs, so your teams in Serbia stay productive and your equipment keeps running smoothly.

7. 24/7 Support for peace of mind

Our dedicated customer support team is always on hand to answer any questions and resolve any issues related to asset management, logistics, or shipping. Whether you need help during business hours or outside of them, GroWrk provides round-the-clock support for your IT operations in Serbia.

How to send IT equipment to Serbia

At a glance

Overview of IT operations in Serbia

Shipping IT equipment to Serbia: What you need to know

Checklist for sending laptops to Serbia

Average cost of IT Equipment in Serbia

Public holidays & IT work hours to plan your shipment

What to consider when retrieving IT equipment from employees in Serbia

How to dispose of IT equipment in Serbia

Data wiping

WEEE compliance (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive)

Repurposing IT equipment

Manufacturer take-back programs

Certified e-waste recycling providers

Local IT Outsourcing Solutions in Serbia

Procure, configure, and deploy your IT devices from one platform