Special uses constitute a category of Special Regimes, which includes the Temporary Import and Special Destination regime. The temporary import regime allows the import, with suspension of the collection of customs duties and other charges of non-EU commodities, as well as means of transport intended to temporarily remain in the country and then re-exported, within the deadline set, as the case might be.

The special destination regime allows the import of non-EU commodities for the purpose of being released for free circulation and consumption with full or partial exemption from third country tariff (erga omnes) on condition that these commdities are used for the purposes set out in the Common Customs, as well as the individual Union Regulations.