The export of non-perishable food products such as tea, flowers, fruits, various spices like chilis, and dry foods presents an opportunity for local Bangladeshi businesses to expand their international sales and reach a wider market.
Shipping non-perishable food products overseas, however, can come with its own set of challenges. One of the primary concerns is complying with the restrictions and regulations imposed by different countries’ customs authorities. Additionally, ensuring proper packaging is essential to prevent damage during transit. Non-perishable food items need to be packed securely to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage. Otherwise, food safety and hygiene can be compromised, and this can lead to issues such as food poisoning. Overcoming these challenges requires careful planning, knowledge of customs regulations, and choosing a reliable logistics partner in Bangladesh with expertise in shipping food products internationally.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the specific challenges of shipping non-perishable food items and provide essential strategies to ensure the successful shipping of Bangladeshi non-perishable food products worldwide.
1. Ensure you do not ship prohibited and restricted foods
When shipping non-perishable food products overseas, it is crucial to be aware of the restrictions imposed by different countries. Agricultural, cultural, and religious reasons may prohibit certain food items from being imported. Therefore, it is essential to review the customs regulations of the destination country to ensure compliance and avoid any issues during customs clearance.
To ensure smooth shipping, it is vital to adhere to the guidelines set by customs authorities. Before sending any food items, consider the following checklist:
- Shelf life: Ensure that the food has a shelf life of six months or longer from the date of sending.
- Originality: The food should be in its original manufacturer's wrapping and packaging.
- Ingredients list: Make sure that the food labels list all the ingredients accurately.
- Sealing: Verify that the packaging on the food is sealed and shows no signs of being opened or tampered with.
By following these guidelines, you can minimise the risk of compliance issues and ensure the safe and successful delivery of your non-perishable food products to their intended destination.
2. Check the customs duties and taxes amount
It is crucial for businesses to be aware of the import taxes and duties imposed by the destination country when exporting non-perishable food products. These costs should be taken into consideration when determining your pricing strategy.
To determine the applicable import taxes, you will need to identify the Harmonised System (HS) code for your product. The HS code is an internationally recognised system used to classify traded products worldwide. Each HS code corresponds to a specific rate of import tax, which varies based on the country of origin and the nature of the product being imported.
Therefore, it is essential to conduct thorough research on import taxes and understand the import tax regulations specific to your product as a Bangladeshi business. By doing so, you can ensure compliance with customs requirements and accurately factor in any applicable duties and taxes into your pricing strategy.
3. Prepare the documents you require
The following documents are essential in the customs clearance process and ensure efficient importation and delivery of your non-perishable food products. :
- Commercial invoice: This document provides a detailed description of the goods, including quantity, value, and a breakdown of transaction costs. Ensure that it has a complete list of ingredients for food products, including the botanical names of the species.
- Packing list: This document provides an inventory of the shipped goods, including weight, dimensions, and packaging materials used. It aids in customs clearance and ensures proper handling and transportation.
- Certificate of origin (COO): This document verifies the country of origin of the goods and may be required for customs clearance.
- Phytosanitary certificate: This document confirms that the shipped goods are free from pests and diseases and comply with the import requirements of the destination country, particularly for agricultural products.
- Bill of lading and air waybill: These documents serve as proof of shipment and are necessary for logistics and customs purposes. This would require the shipper and receiver details, and key information about the shipment’s contents.
It is crucial to have all the necessary documents prepared and organised to facilitate a smooth customs clearance process. To learn more, check out our guide to the export documents you need before exporting out of Bangladesh.
4. Pack your food items properly
Proper packaging is essential to protect your non-perishable food products during transit. Consider the following tips to ensure your food items arrive in optimal condition:
- Utilise high-quality packaging materials: Opt for strong and durable packaging materials that can withstand the rigours of shipping.
- Think about temperature control: When shipping temperature-sensitive goods, maintain the quality and freshness of your products by utilising temperature-controlled shipping containers or refrigerated trucks. This is crucial, especially for frozen food products that require constant freezing.
- Provide clear labelling: Clearly label each package with the contents, weight, and any necessary warnings or instructions. This information should also be included on the commercial invoice and packing list.
- List nutrition information: Ensure accurate nutrition labelling for commercial quantities of foodstuffs to comply with the regulations of the destination country.
Strict adherence to customs laws and regulations is vital for successful shipping of non-perishable food products. Any delays or non-compliance issues during customs clearance can lead to compromised product quality. By taking the necessary precautions and following customs procedures, you can ensure the timely and intact delivery of your non-perishable food products to customers worldwide.
