German Phrase
Das passt noch in die Zollfreigrenze.
Meaning
The sentence means that the items you are considering still fall within the duty‑free allowance, so you won’t have to pay customs duties. It is often used when checking the total value or quantity of goods before crossing a border.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are at the airport, border crossing, or discussing shopping abroad, and you want to confirm that the total you are carrying is still under the permitted limit.
✦Grammar Breakdown
DaspasstnochindieZollfreigrenze.
passen (3rd person singular)
The verb 'passen' means 'to fit' or 'to be suitable'. In the present tense, third person singular is 'passt'.
noch
Adverb meaning 'still' or 'yet', indicating that a condition remains true.
in die + accusative
The preposition 'in' with the accusative case expresses movement into a place or limit.
Zollfreigrenze
Compound noun: 'Zoll' (customs) + 'Freigrenze' (allowance/threshold). Refers to the amount/value of goods you can bring without paying duty.
🗨In Conversation
Wie viel darf ich insgesamt mitnehmen?
How much am I allowed to bring in total?
Das passt noch in die Zollfreigrenze.
That still fits within the duty‑free allowance.
✕Common Mistakes
Das passt noch in der Zollfreigrenze.
Do not use 'in der' here; the preposition 'in' with a limit takes the accusative, so 'in die' is correct.
Die Sachen passen noch in die Zollfreigrenze.
Avoid using 'passt' with a plural subject; the verb must agree with the singular 'Das'.
Das passt noch in die die Zollfreigrenze.
Do not add an extra article like 'die die Zollfreigrenze'.
↔Alternatives
Das liegt noch innerhalb der Zollfreigrenze.
That is still within the duty‑free limit.
Das überschreitet die Zollfreigrenze nicht.
That does not exceed the duty‑free allowance.
Wir bleiben noch unter der Freigrenze.
We are still under the allowance.
Cultural Tip
In Germany and the EU, the Zollfreigrenze for travelers coming from non‑EU countries is €300 for air and sea travel (as of 2024). For land travel, the limit is €430. Knowing the exact amount helps you avoid surprise duties at customs. The phrase is neutral and works in both formal and informal contexts, but you’ll often hear it in airports, train stations, or when friends discuss souvenir shopping.