Customs Clearance Procedures for Different Types of Goods
Different types of goods require specific customs clearance procedures depending on their nature and purpose. Below is a breakdown of the clearance process for transit goods, transshipment goods, and through goods.
1. Transit Goods
Definition
Transit goods are items transported through a country en route to another destination, whether or not the mode of transport changes.
Customs Clearance Process
Entry Procedures
- The operator submits the "Declaration Form for Entry of Transit Goods" to customs along with relevant transport documents (e.g., cargo loading lists or international waybills).
- Customs at the entry point verifies the information, stamps the waybill with "Goods under Customs Control," and keeps a copy of the declaration form for records.
- A sealed copy of the declaration form, cargo loading list, and waybill is handed to the operator, who must deliver it intact to the customs at the exit point.
Exit Procedures
- The operator files an "Exit Declaration Form for Transit Goods" and provides the transport documents and customs seal from the entry point.
- After verification, the customs at the exit point affixes a release seal to the waybill and supervises the shipment.
- A copy of the exit declaration form is sent back to the entry customs for cross-verification.
2. Transshipment Goods
Definition
Transshipment goods are items transferred from one transport mode to another within a country under customs supervision, continuing to another destination without entering the local market.
Conditions for Transshipment
Transshipment is permitted if any of the following apply:
- The goods are covered by a through bill of lading.
- Transshipment is noted on the import manifest.
- Transshipment is declared to customs with a standard bill of lading upon discharge.
- Mistakenly unloaded goods are supported by verified documents from the carrier.
- Special circumstances for transshipment are approved by customs.
Customs Clearance Process
- The carrier submits a "Foreign Goods Transshipment Permit" to customs, detailing the goods’ name, quantity, origin, and destination.
- Customs checks the information and oversees the goods’ transfer between vehicles under supervision.
- The goods must exit within the prescribed timeframe, under customs monitoring.
3. Through Goods
Definition
Through goods are shipped directly by vessel or aircraft from one country to another without changing the transport mode while passing through a customs port in an intermediary country.
Customs Clearance Process
- Carriers file a declaration to customs using the "Import Manifest" for international ships or aircraft, specifying the goods' name and quantity.
- Customs verifies the details and supervises the shipment until it exits the intermediary country.
Summary of Clearance Requirements
| Type of Goods | Key Documentation Required | Customs Involvement |
|---|---|---|
| Transit Goods | Entry/Exit Declaration Forms, Waybill | Supervision at entry and exit, with seals and verification between entry and exit customs. |
| Transshipment | Transshipment Permit, Import Manifest | Oversight of goods transfer between transport modes; goods remain duty-free if within customs control. |
| Through Goods | Import Manifest | Verification of details and supervision of goods as they move directly between countries without transshipment. |
By following these procedures, carriers and operators can ensure compliance with customs regulations and facilitate smooth transportation of goods across borders.
