Information you will need for Customs Clearance

When shipping freight internationally, it’s very important to properly fill out customs forms to ensure a your freight will reach is destination as smoothly as possible. Today we will review the information you’ll need to have ready for your customs broker to ensure a smooth and easy process.

First, you’ll need to provide basic information about the shipper and recipient, including their names, addresses, and contact information. This will help customs officials identify who is sending and receiving the shipment.

Next, you’ll need to provide detailed information about the contents of the shipment. This includes a description of each item, the quantity of each item, and the value of each item, which is often called a packing list. It’s important to be as specific and accurate as possible when describing the contents, as this will help customs officials determine if any additional taxes or tariffs need to be applied, as there are often different clearance procedures and requirements for different types of goods. For example, there may be different requirements for hazardous materials, perishable goods, or restricted items such as weapons or controlled substances.

You’ll also need to provide information about the how the shipment is organized and packaged. This includes the total number of packages, the type of packaging (such as boxes, crates, or pallets), and the dimensions and weight of each one.

In addition, you’ll need to provide information about the mode of transportation for the shipment. This includes the type of vehicle or vessel used to transport the shipment, the name of the carrier, and the departure and arrival dates.

Finally, you’ll need to provide any additional documentation that may be required by customs officials. This can include commercial invoices, bills of lading, and other documents that provide proof of the contents and value of the shipment.

It’s important to note that different countries have different requirements for customs forms, so it’s a good idea to also check with the specific country you’ll be shipping to for any other specific information.

To Summarize,

• Shipper and Recipient Information
• Detailed information about the contents of the shipment
• Information about the packaging of the shipment
• Information about the carriers being used for the shipment and which mode you are using
• Additional documentation that may be required by customs officials

In conclusion, properly filling out customs forms is essential for freight shipping as it keep your freight moving and decreases the time it may be at customs. It is important to provide accurate and specific information about the shipper, recipient, contents, packaging, transportation and any additional documentation required. It is also important to check with the specific country for their customs form requirements. If you need help, contact Ark and we will be able to help you with any necessary documents.