What Is the Procedure for Customs Clearance?

When it comes to shipping, getting customs clearance can get be a headache. FedEx advises that you need to be as accurate as possible.

Everything that you write make sure it is legible and written in the correct spots. Mistakes, or inaccuracies, make it appear that the papers are forged. Be honest, upfront, and most of all, just do what they tell you to do. If they want you to open a container, do it with a smile.

Paperwork Verification-The first step in the process is the checking of the paperwork. A customs agent will ask for your shipping papers and will go through them, line by line. Therefore, you must make sure that your writing can be read. It is also important that every section is filled out and filled out accurately. If you are shipping internationally there must be a commercial invoice for every shipment. The shipper’s information, and the destination, will be printed on the label once the load clears.

Customs Officer Checks-This stage of the check is where fees will be assessed for the load. If the products are over a set value, they will check to make sure that all applicable duties and taxes have been paid. A total will be given at this time and then you will be passed on to the third stage of the check to verify your compliance with customs regulations.

Payments, Taxes, Duties-When it comes to paying for duties and fees there are two options available. The first is Delivery Duty Paid (DDP), which means that everything has been prepaid for. When it is done in this manner you usually end up paying more. The second, and best, way is Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU). When using this form of payment, you are charged exactly what the fees are. There is no guesswork with this form of payment.

Release of Shipment-The final stage of the shipping process is when the customs officer releases the shipment and authorizes it to pass through the port. If the papers are in order, from this point on, the shipment will pass through to the place of delivery without any issues.

Shipping with ocean liners across the seas is one of the only ways to get items halfway across the globe. Customs is simply a stage of the process that must be dealt with. You must also keep in mind that every port you go through may have different regulations and fees.

Some Customs Officers may be friendly and helpful, while others may be spiteful and by the book. No matter who you end up dealing with if your papers are accurate and readable, honest, and unflawed, you will breeze right through the customs booths.

It is very important to be educated about the current rules and regulations of the ports that you must pass through. Just because it was a specific way when you came through a year ago does not mean it will be the same.

Follow all the steps. Stay within the requirements. Cooperate with the officer and before you know it the shipment is on its way to the destination.

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