Bringing a desktop computer to Germany in hand luggage [duplicate]

I am going to study abroad in Germany, my current location is Malaysia. I am bringing my personal desktop computer (without monitor) as carry-on luggage. The computer chassis size is like this.

Are there any rules or regulations I need to follow?

Best Answer

It is perfectly okay to do so. I did it before. (To the neighbourning country Netherlands, which has the same rules for immigration). A few tips:

Take enough time to go through security. Electronics are difficult to x-ray and a desktop's size doesn't make it any easier.

If your computer contains a HDD (instead of or along with an SSD), you may want to take that out to protect it from getting damaged. They are very delicate and do not handle movement very well. It wouldn't be the first time someone decides to move your bag and drops it. The rest of the parts handle that fairly well, but wrapping them is still not a bad idea, especially big parts like high end GPUs.

Your computer (parts) will most likely have to be x-rayed thoroughly. You will make everything a lot easier if you take your computer apart as much as possible. Take the motherboard out of the case etc. If this is not possible, don't worry too much, it will simply take a little longer.

Keep all your computer parts (except maybe the HDD) in the same bag. This allows everything to be taken out easier and you won't have to open up all your bags on inspection.

Pictures about "Bringing a desktop computer to Germany in hand luggage [duplicate]"

Bringing a desktop computer to Germany in hand luggage [duplicate] - Flatlay of a Person's Workplace

Can you take a desktop computer in hand luggage?

Please remove the computer from your carry-on bag and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening.

Can I bring my desktop computer as check-in baggage on a flight?

TSA's website states that you can bring desktop computers in carry-on bags. In fact, it's much safer than bringing it in your checked luggage. That way, you don't have to worry about it getting thrown accidentally or getting damaged during the flight.

Can I take my PC to Germany?

You can carry what you like, but you might be liable for import duty and VAT depending on the value of the items as assessed by German customs, and whether any exemptions are available for your specific circumstances. If in doubt, use the red channel and declare everything.

COMPUTER AS CARRY-ON CHALLENGE! - How to take any PC as hand luggage on the plane!

Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: cottonbro, cottonbro, cottonbro, cottonbro