Customs Clearance

Exporting

With the right documentation, export clearance can go smoothly. The shipper shares the necessary documentation (see drop-downs below) with their broker, who in turn submits a compliant clearance form to the customs office. The customs office can decide to immediately release the cargo, and shares the shipment’s authorization to export (such as the MRN Number in Europe): you are good to go!The inspection can take place physically or be limited to your shipment’s documentation, whereby customs authorities will apply different levels of control procedures to ascertain that the exportation is compliant with national and international laws and regulations. They may require to inspect the container, its products or have the usage of the products demonstrated for them before allowing exportation. Here is our pro tip: consult with your customs broker prior to exporting by providing documentation samples and information on your goods’ nature and possible usages. 

Importing

If you use the services of a customs broker, the import process and controls will be an experience similar to that of the export clearance. It is important to share your delivery plan with your broker, along with all the necessary documentation – they will in turn create a compliant customs declaration. The key documents remain the same as seen above, with a particular attention needed for import licenses and proof of origin. Based on the documentation shared by your broker, the Customs office either decides to release the goods or to inspect the transaction. In the latter case, your customs broker will coordinate with you the further actions needed.

Paying Customs Duties

Unless exempt, all imported commercial goods are subject to customs duties and taxes based on their HS Code tariff classification. It is your forwarder who will pay the import duty and tax. Some goods are also assessed in relation to other taxes. This includes excise duties and anti-dumping duties, which are applied to goods priced significantly below their value in their import market. The documentation resulting from the clearance process must be kept for up to 10 years, sometimes longer, for compliance audit purposes. Breck Group forwarding offers archiving services, so customs authorities’ inquiries will be answered efficiently, without delay or prosecution risk. Export cleared, import cleared and duties paid? It’s time for your shipment to arrive at destination.