Expanding into Poland can be a strategic move for many foreign transport companies. However, without proper guidance and local knowledge, it’s easy to fall into costly traps. From tax missteps to compliance issues, even experienced international carriers can make avoidable errors. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them—with the right support for foreign transport companies in Poland.

1. Misunderstanding Polish Tax and Accounting Regulations

Poland has its own set of VAT obligations, ZUS (social security) contributions, and CIT/PIT frameworks that differ significantly from those in other EU countries. Many foreign carriers neglect to register properly for VAT or fail to meet regular reporting deadlines, resulting in penalties and delayed operations.

How to avoid it: Partner with a local accounting firm that specializes in transport sector compliance. Evotax, a verified and experienced company, offers tailored accounting and tax services specifically for international transport businesses.

2. Improper Handling of Transport Licenses and EU Documentation

Foreign carriers often assume their home licenses or documents will suffice in Poland. In reality, you may need additional registrations—such as a Polish NIP (Tax Identification Number), statistical registration (REGON), and sometimes a Polish bank account.

How to avoid it: Outsource this process to specialists familiar with the Polish transport sector. Evotax provides full-service support for foreign transport companies in Poland, ensuring all legal and licensing requirements are met from day one.

3. Underestimating the Cost and Complexity of In-House Compliance

Managing payroll, tax filings, and regulatory changes internally is time-consuming and costly—especially when operating in a foreign jurisdiction. Many carriers learn too late that trying to do everything in-house leads to errors, non-compliance, or overpaid taxes.

How to avoid it: Outsourcing accounting and administrative services is not only cost-effective—it’s also safer. With Evotax, foreign carriers benefit from transparent pricing and direct access to expert accountants who understand the transport industry and the Polish legal environment.

4. Neglecting Local Representation and Communication

Polish tax offices, ZUS, and transport authorities typically communicate in Polish. Without a local representative or fluent support, misunderstandings and missed deadlines are common.

How to avoid it: Rely on professional bilingual support. Evotax offers multilingual communication, helping your company stay compliant and informed without language barriers.

Final Thought

Poland offers enormous potential for foreign carriers, but the key to success lies in avoiding these common pitfalls. Choosing the right partner makes all the difference. For reliable, expert-level support for foreign transport companies in Poland, Evotax stands out as a trusted solution—offering everything from tax advisory to full outsourcing of accounting services tailored to the transport industry.