Customs Brokers are professionals who are skilled in representing both importers and exporters in clearing their goods through Customs. Customs Brokers are normally employed in Freight Forwarding companies.
A Freight Forwarder is a transporter of consolidated or single consignment freight through airlines or shipping lines. They supply shippers and consignees with advice on the most cost-effective method of moving cargo and they provide advice about import regulations and requirements in destination countries. Freight Forwarders provide cartage and pickup from the shippers’ premises for exports, and deliver to consignee’s premises for imports. For export shipments they prepare export documentation and liaise with overseas agents and suppliers to ensure freight moves correctly and arrives on time.
Reduce Costs. Clearing goods through Customs requires knowledge of tariff classification, duty rates and other related charges. Prior to importation Customs Brokers can advise on these matters as well as freight charges to assist in determining an estimate of the probable landed cost. They can also arrange for the early receipt of shipping documentation. Many unnecessary expenses arise simply because shipments are arranged without prior consultation on these matters.
Minimise Duty. Imported goods, for which there is no locally manufactured equivalent, may qualify for duty concessions. Custom Brokers are familiar with duty concession policies and procedures.
Prepare export documentation. Export documentation should be accurately prepared to the exact requirements of the overseas importer. Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders are conversant with documentation requirements of overseas markets.
Select and arrange the best method of transport. Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders are in daily contact with a wide range of freight services and can advise on the best methods of shipping imports and exports, sea freight and air freight at most competitive rates. Likewise they can provide or arrange cartage services to and from the wharves and airports.
INternational COmmerce Terminology (INCO Terms) define exactly the shipping responsibilities of both the buyer and the seller. These are very important to understand when buying or selling goods. Your freight forwarder will be more than happy to explain these in more detail. Click here to see a table demonstrating each parties responsibilities depending on the INCOterm used.
Importing and Exporting isn’t a mine field but there are more considerations that you need to take into account than when you are selling your goods domestically.
Once you have some interest from overseas buyers in your goods or you have found product you wish to import there are some considerations before you pack your goods and put them on a plane or ship.
• Transportation and costs – talk to your freight forwarder about your product, how it will be packed and quantities you are wanting to have sent. They will be able to advise on transport methods, delivery times and provide you with costs of international transport which you will need to factor into your sale price.
• Time frame – Work out how long it will take to produce the order and the transit time to get the shipment to the final destination
• Shipping terms – Before looking into freight options make sure it’s clear between you and your buyer/seller what the shipping / INCO terms are.
• Take a small step before taking the world by storm. Check on import and export regulations and consider market that we have Free Trade Agreements with and this will make your price point more attractive.
There may be a number of requirements you need to follow for the goods to clear customs at home or in your targeted country.
• Customs Client Code – All export and import shipments will need to have an import or export entry completed before coming into or leaving the country. This will require a customs client code, apply for this through your freight forwarder.
• Packing – If you are moving goods on pallets or in crates ensure that the wood is treated ISPM15 to avoid any fumigation cost or customs holds at destination. Ensure the correct labelling is used on your freight package as well as the product itself. Make sure the packing list provided explains what your product is clearly
• Commercial Invoice – It specifies the supplier and buyer’s details, a detailed description of the goods and the commercial value. The quality of this information is vital to ensure the goods clear customs at destination
The New Zealand Trade Enterprises (NZTE) website has detailed information to help first time exporters and importers or please just give us a call.