The customs clearance process involves obtaining export clearance before cargo departs the country of origin. To complete the process, import clearance is needed as well, which has to be obtained for cargo to be permitted into the destination country.
While this sounds simple, the truth is that customs clearance may feel like a daunting task for novice shippers. In this post, you’ll learn some of the handiest tips for making customs clearance a smooth and seamless process.
Make Yourself Aware of Trade Restrictions
Not all goods are allowed to be exported. Similarly, not all goods are allowed to be imported. So, before your cargo is on its way, you need to be aware of what you can send and whether it’s allowed in the destination country. Restrictions depend on various factors such as age, quantity, packaging, and licensing.
Certain restricted goods can still be sent if you seek approval from the concerned authorities. However, if such goods are traded without the relevant permissions or licenses, you’re likely to face penalties.
Double Check Copyrights and Trademarks
Copyrights and trademarks, collectively known as intellectual property, can be a source of headaches during the customs clearance process. While unique intellectual property isn’t likely to pose a problem, issues may arise if the intellectual property is similar to that of another company in the destination country.
So, before your cargo departs, verify all copyrights and trademarks. If they are seen and perceived by inspectors in the country of import as counterfeits, your cargo will be seized, and there will be penalties.
Get All Required Documents in Order
Getting the paperwork right is vital for customs clearance to go through without any hiccups. Most customs authorities check the following documents during both export and import:
- Certificate of Origin
- Packing List
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading (ocean shipping) or Airway Bill (air shipping)
- Payment terms such as Letter of Credit
Research Your Supply Chain
If your supply chain consists of denied or restricted parties, customs authorities are likely to seize your shipment. Denied or restricted parties are buyers and/or suppliers (individuals and businesses) who have been flagged by the authorities for their involvement in one or more of the following:
- Drug trafficking
- Corruption
- Terrorism
You should make sure that all the buyers and suppliers on your supply chain are allowed to do business by their local authorities.
Hire a Customs Broker To Do All the Hard Work
So, you’ve already been through 4 points, and you can probably imagine how much hard work goes into getting customs clearance right. If you’re new and have no experience of how to go about it, it’s best to hire the services of a customs brokerage firm.
The experts of a customs brokerage firm like Rensat will be able to guide you regarding trade laws, restrictions, and everything else you could want to know before shipping. The firm will also take charge of the shipping and delivery process and ensure that your cargo reaches the destination country. Contact Rensat for the best customs clearance solutions in all of the UK.
