Free movement of goods within the single 
market

The free movement of goods is one of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the European Union, ensuring the free movement of goods within the single market. Customs duties and other similar charges with an equivalent effect between Member States are prohibited, as are quantitative restrictions on goods and any other measures having an equivalent effect.

In its case-law, the Court of Justice of the European Union has on several occasions clarified the concept of a measure having equivalent effect, and interpreted it expansively. The measure itself need not be binding; a recommendation may suffice. Meanwhile, a measure having an “equivalent effect” may be any measure or action that directly or indirectly, with an immediate or potential impact, represents a barrier to trade between Member States.

As a rule, any goods lawfully placed on the internal market of the European Union can move freely on the market.

Further information 
Niina Etelävuori - niina.etelavuori(at)gov.fi