Israel is one of the Middle East’s most advanced technology markets, with strong demand for IT infrastructure, cybersecurity systems, and cloud datacenter hardware. Importing tech equipment into Israel, however, requires precise compliance with customs regulations, telecom approvals, and security classifications.
IOR and EOR services help global tech companies avoid delays and maintain full regulatory compliance when shipping hardware into the country. For the country detail, see our importer of record in Israel page.
Here is what importers must know and how Carra Globe supports secure and efficient IT hardware movements into Israel.
Understanding Israel’s Import Framework for IT Hardware
Israel’s import environment is regulated by several authorities, each responsible for different aspects of technology compliance.
- Israel Tax Authority (ITA) manages customs declarations, valuation, and duties.
- The Ministry of Communications (MoC) governs telecom, RF, and wireless devices.
- SII (Standards Institution of Israel) oversees product standards and testing.
- The Ministry of Economy and Industry and the Ministry of Defense (DECA) control exports of dual-use and encryption items, depending on whether the end user is civilian or defence related.
Israel’s customs declarations run through Shaar Olami (Global Gate), the Israel Tax Authority’s computerised customs system, in use since January 2018. (gov.il)
IT hardware such as servers, routers, switches, cybersecurity appliances, and telecom infrastructure usually requires the following.
- Correct HS classification
- SII conformity assessment
- MoC type approval for communication devices
- An export control check for encrypted or dual-use systems that will later be re-exported
Why IOR and EOR Services Matter for Israel
Importing IT equipment into Israel is complex due to strict technical, communications, and export control checks.
IOR services help importers by:
- Acting as the legal importer inside Israel
- Handling customs declarations and Shaar Olami filings
- Managing all regulatory approvals
- Preventing penalties from misclassification or missing permits
EOR services help exporters by:
- Ensuring compliant outbound documentation
- Managing re-exports to Europe, the UAE, Turkey, and Africa
- Handling equipment returns, warranty swaps, or RMA shipments
For global tech companies without a local entity, IOR and EOR services are essential to move hardware without delays.
Key Compliance Steps for IT Hardware Imports into Israel
1. Verify Product Approval Requirements
Telecom and RF-enabled devices generally require MoC type approval before customs clearance. Since 2017, equipment that only uses Bluetooth or only a satellite positioning receiver no longer needs it, but a device that combines these with Wi-Fi or another wireless technology still does. (moc.gov.il)
2. Determine if SII Certification Applies
Servers, power supplies, and electrical equipment may require SII safety testing. (sii.org.il)
3. Classify Hardware Correctly Under HS Codes
Incorrect classification can trigger delays, re-inspections, or penalty fees. See the HS code for servers and the HS code for routers and switches.
4. Submit a Digital Import Declaration via Shaar Olami
All customs documentation is filed electronically through Israel’s import portal. (Gov.IL)
5. Complete Duties and VAT Requirements
Most IT hardware is subject to VAT at the standard rate, which rose from 17% to 18% in January 2025, while certain categories may be duty exempt under Israel’s tariff agreements.
| Compliance Area | Responsible Authority | Notes |
| Telecom and RF approval | MoC | Required for wireless devices |
| Safety standards | SII | Electrical and IT equipment |
| Customs clearance | ITA | Digital via Shaar Olami |
| Export controls | Ministry of Economy or MOD (DECA) | For dual-use or encrypted hardware leaving Israel |
How Carra Globe Supports IT Imports into Israel
Carra Globe provides complete IOR and EOR solutions for companies shipping high-value technology into Israel.
IOR Services and Documentation Control
We act as your importer of record and manage customs filings, safety checks, and telecom approvals. Learn why strong compliance foundations matter in Why International Trade Compliance Is More Crucial Than Ever.
Duty and Valuation Accuracy
Carra Globe ensures correct HS classification, preventing clearance delays and overpayment. Explore commercial and cost implications in DDP vs DAP vs CIF: Which Works Best for Global IT Hardware?
Coordinated Rollouts and Re-Exports
Our exporter of record team manages outbound shipments, RMA returns, and region wide deployment. See how efficiency improves in Avoiding Customs Delays: IOR Services for IT Rollouts.
Why Israel Is a Strategic Market for Global Tech Firms
- Strong cybersecurity and cloud market growth
- High demand for enterprise servers and networking equipment
- Digital infrastructure expansion across finance, defense, and health sectors
- Central location for shipping into Europe and the Middle East
Israel’s strict regulatory environment protects national security and digital integrity, but it also increases the need for professional import management.
Partner With Carra Globe for Israel Import Compliance
Carra Globe handles every step of IOR and EOR operations for IT hardware entering or exiting Israel. From MoC approvals to customs declarations and export control checks, we manage each step. Carra Globe works through importer-side registrations and local importing structures appropriate to the goods and destinations it accepts, its own in some markets and established local structures in others. Approvals falling outside the available structure are flagged before a delivery date is agreed.
Contact our compliance team to plan your next IT hardware deployment in Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do all IT products require SII approval?
Not all. Electrical equipment and devices with specific safety standards may require SII testing.
2. Which devices need Ministry of Communications approval?
Most equipment with wireless, RF, or telecom functions requires type approval. Bluetooth-only and positioning-only devices have been exempt since 2017.
3. Can Carra Globe act as IOR in Israel?
Yes. We serve as your legal importer and manage full compliance.
4. Does Israel classify any IT hardware as dual-use?
Yes. Encrypted equipment and items with military uses can be dual-use. Since 20 March 2025 Israel controls them on export, through the Ministry of Economy for civilian end users and DECA for defence end users.
5. Is VAT applicable to IT imports?
Yes. VAT at 18% generally applies at import unless exempt under specific programs.