For most shippers, one of the most complicated aspects of transporting shipments overseas is the customs clearance process. Completing these procedures requires a deep understanding of the import and export process, tariffs, and specific country requirements. While it can be complicated, working with an international shipping expert like DHL Express can help remove all the guesswork and streamline the customs clearance process.
DHL Express offers a comprehensive suite of customs services designed to help you with the customs clearance process and keep your goods moving smoothly.
1. Customs Preparation
To prepare for overseas shipment and ensure a seamless customs clearance process, DHL Express provides the following services:
a. Export Declaration Assistance
Certain countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, require an export declaration for shipments containing controlled commodities or those exceeding specific value or weight thresholds. While some countries offer publicly accessible automated export systems, this may not always be available. To assist shippers, DHL Express facilitates and expedites the export declaration process, ensuring a smooth and efficient customs experience.
b. Bonded Transit
DHL Express offers bonded transit services for shipments that need to move under customs control between different locations. This is particularly useful for goods in transit to a final destination or those requiring temporary import/export.
What is a bond?
A bond is a financial guarantee provided to customs authorities to ensure the payment of any potential duties and fees.
How DHL manages bonded transits
- Secure facilities: DHL uses restricted-access warehouses equipped with surveillance systems to protect goods under bond.
- Specialized procedures: With DHL Express’s strict protocols for documentation, labeling, and tracking, full compliance with customs regulations can be ensured.
- Customs expertise: DHL Express’s experienced professionals can handle the required paperwork, ensuring a seamless bonded transit process.
- Technology and tracking: For real-time updates of your shipment, DHL Express offers advanced monitoring systems.
- Collaboration with authorities: DHL Express maintains strong relationships with customs authorities across different countries to ensure efficient communication and compliance with your shipment’s customs clearance requirements.
c. Temporary import/export
DHL Express can assist with temporary import/export shipments, which involve goods entering a country for a specific purpose (e.g., trade shows and exhibitions) and then being re-exported. Our professional can guide you through the use of ATA Carnets, which simplify temporary import/export procedures and minimize customs formalities.
d. Multiline entry
For shipments containing a variety of goods with complex documentation, DHL Express offers multiline entry services. This streamlines the process by consolidating multiple items under a single customs entry. However, it’s important to note that multiline entries exceeding 5 lines may incur additional charges. Before customs clearance, each product must also be properly identified and classified under its respective harmonized system code for tariffs.
2. Customs excise process
Once your package arrives at the target destination, DHL Express can help in facilitating the following:
a. Non-routine entry
In some cases, your shipment might require non-routine customs clearance procedures. This typically occurs when goods exceed certain value or weight thresholds or if they fall under specific commodity regulations. This could also apply to countries where DHL Express is legally required to partner with a third-party broker for formal clearance entries.
To ensure a seamless shipping experience, it’s essential to understand whether your items meet the criteria for non-routine entry. By identifying these factors in advance, you can plan accordingly and avoid potential delays when shipping.
b. Bonded storage
In situations where shipments are delayed due to incomplete documentation or other issues, DHL Express can have your shipments in bonded storage. This is a secure facility where goods can be stored while awaiting customs clearance.
c. Permits and Licenses
DHL Express can assist with obtaining the necessary permits and licenses for your shipment. To streamline the import process for restricted commodities—such as pharmaceuticals and food products—DHL Express can register specific information on your behalf to secure the required permits or licenses efficiently.
Rest assured that DHL Express can pay the certification fees in advance and re-invoice them in accordance with the applicable authority regulations.
3. Customs support
If you want to streamline the customs clearance process, DHL Express can also help you with the following:
a. Disbursement
DHL Express expedites customs clearance for non-regulated goods by promptly paying duty and tax charges on behalf of the recipient. Payment can then be deferred to an agreed-upon date.
b. Advance payment
This default service applies to non-document shipments where DHL Express uses a credit line to advance or ensure the payment of duties, taxes, or regulatory charges. This service can be beneficial for importers and consumers without an existing contract with DHL Express.
c. Release to broker
When requested by the importer, DHL Express can transfer the shipment and related customs documents to the chosen broker. The broker will then manage the customs clearance and last-mile delivery process.
d. Broker notification
Should shippers prefer to have third-party brokers facilitate the clearance process instead, DHL Express can supply the necessary documentation. Once cleared, the shipment proceeds to its final destination.
It’s important to note that when the handling of the shipment is forwarded to the broker, DHL Express will not be responsible for the timeliness of document submission to customs or the release process of the shipment.
e. Other Government Agency Controls
Upon request, DHL Express can arrange the completion of Veterinary Health or Phytosanitary controls at the Point of Entry in a country or combined customs territory. This is typically required for importing animal products, plants, seeds, and pharmaceutical products.
f. Post clearance modification
DHL Express can update or amend customs documents after import clearance. This includes correcting details such as value, commodity classification, country of origin, or trade terms. Modifications may also be necessary if import details, such as the VAT number on the declaration, are incorrect.
Let DHL Express handle your overseas shipments
Managing customs clearance can be a challenging aspect of international trade, but it doesn’t have to be. DHL Express offers a comprehensive range of customs services designed to simplify the process. With our expertise and global logistics network, we make international shipping significantly more straightforward.
By partnering with DHL Express, businesses can streamline their shipping processes, potentially minimize delays, and ensure their goods reach their destination efficiently and in full compliance with regulations. Open a business account with us today.
For insights into customs clearance procedures, check out our tips on how to avoid getting stuck in customs clearance.
