Customs declaration

Documents and procedures

Principles for classifying a product in the Harmonized System.

The customs declaration is a crucial step in the import and export process. It involves providing customs authorities with all necessary information regarding goods crossing borders. This document helps determine applicable customs duties and ensures that products comply with current regulations.

Why is it important?

The customs declaration is essential for several reasons:

  1. Legal compliance: It ensures that goods comply with customs laws and regulations.
  2. Calculation of duties and taxes: It allows for the precise calculation of customs duties and other taxes payable.
  3. Trade statistics: The data collected helps establish statistics on international trade.

How to properly prepare your declaration?

  • Gather necessary documents: Commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, etc.
  • Verify HS codes: Ensure that Harmonized System (HS) codes are correct to avoid taxation errors.
  • Use customs clearance software: These tools can simplify the process and reduce the risk of errors.

Practical tips

  • Consult an expert: If you are a novice, it may be wise to hire a freight forwarder or customs broker.
  • Anticipate delays: Customs formalities can take time, especially if documents are missing or incorrect.

In summary, the customs declaration is an indispensable document for international trade. Proper preparation helps avoid delays and additional costs. For more information, consult the resources available on your country's customs website.