A comprehensive guide to customs-related terms and concepts for traders
International trade and the transit of goods is like playing on a specialized field; if you do not know the rules and language of this game, the likelihood of being fined or having your shipment delayed is very high. The “common language” in the procedures for the entry and exit of goods are the same customs concepts and terms.
Whether you are a seasoned merchant or a newcomer to the world of import and export, understanding relevant customs concepts helps you navigate the goods clearance process at the lowest cost and in the shortest possible time. In this article, we examine the most important of these terms using simple, practical language.
Basic and key concepts in the customs process
1. Customs Declaration
A declaration is a formal and legal document that the owner of the goods or his legal representative (the principal) submits to customs. This document contains complete details of the goods, including weight, value, country of origin, and details of the buyer and seller. Filing a declaration is the first formal step in cargo clearance.
2. Proforma Invoice
It is a document that a foreign seller issues to the buyer before the final transaction. The proforma includes the product specifications, unit price, total value, payment terms, and Incoterms terms, which are required for registering an order with the Trade Development Organization.
3. Customs green leaf (customs certificate)
After completing all legal formalities, paying customs duties and taxes, and evaluating the goods, a document called a customs license or “green card” is issued. This document authorizes the goods to leave customs and enter the country’s internal territory.
Terms related to the condition and value of goods
Below, we will examine a few customs reforms along with their simple definitions:
Abandoned item:
Cargo whose legal period of stay at customs has expired
CIF Value:
Value of goods + insurance cost + freight to the destination port
FOB value:
Value of goods delivered on board the ship at the port of departure
Warehouse receipt:
Document of delivery of goods to the customs warehouse until clearance
What is an abandoned product?
If your goods enter the customs warehouse and the clearance procedures are not completed within the legal deadline (usually 3 months), the goods are declared “abandoned” and the authority to sell them is transferred to the organization for the collection and sale of confiscated property.
Difference between FOB and CIF value
In customs calculations, import duties and taxes are calculated based on the CIF value (including the value of the goods + insurance + freight); therefore, having an accurate freight invoice from the international shipping company is of great importance.
Final
Proper understanding of related customs concepts not only prevents heavy fines (such as demurrage or warehousing), but also smooths the path to negotiations with suppliers and logistics companies.
USTUCO’s suggestion: If you need specialized advice for clearing or transporting your imported and transit cargo, our experts are ready to respond and provide you with the best logistics solutions.
