Do you really understand customs declaration for import and export?

In today's wave of globalized economy, import and export trade is becoming increasingly frequent. However, customs declaration, as a crucial part of it, is often overlooked in terms of its complexity and importance by many people. Today, let's explore together the things about customs declaration for import and export and uncover its mysterious veil.

Customs declaration, simply put, is the process in which the consignors or consignees of import and export goods, the persons in charge of inward and outward means of transport, the owners of inward and outward articles, or their agents handle the formalities for the entry and exit of goods, articles, or means of transport and related customs affairs with the customs. This is not an easy task. It involves the preparation of numerous documents, information filling, and a strict review process.

For example, Mr. Zhang's company wants to export a batch of electronic products abroad. Before the goods are ready for shipment, he needs to arrange a dedicated person to be in charge of customs declaration matters. The first thing to do is to prepare various documents, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, etc. Every data in these documents must be accurate, because even a small mistake may lead to the failure of customs declaration, thus delaying the export of goods and bringing unnecessary losses to the company.

• Declaration: This is the first step of customs declaration. The consignors or consignees of import and export goods or their agents should report the situation of import and export goods to the customs at the specified time and place, in the form and content specified by the customs, and submit relevant documents. Just like Ms. Li when she imported a batch of raw materials for her company last time, she carefully filled out the declaration form, listing in detail the information such as the name, specifications, quantity, and value of the goods.

• Inspection: After accepting the declaration, the customs may inspect the import and export goods to verify whether the declared content is consistent with the actual goods. This step cannot be taken lightly. If there are problems with the goods, such as inconsistency with the declaration or the presence of prohibited items, it will be a big trouble.

• Taxation: For import and export goods subject to taxes and fees, the customs will levy taxes according to relevant regulations. There are clear standards for the determination of tax rates and the calculation of taxes and fees. Enterprises need to pay them in a timely manner as required, otherwise it will also affect the customs clearance of goods.

• Release: When all the above steps are successfully completed and the customs confirms that there is no problem, the import and export goods will be released, and then the goods can smoothly enter or exit the country.

The importance of customs declaration work is self-evident. On the one hand, it is an important means to ensure the effective implementation of the country's foreign trade control policies. Through the strict review in the customs declaration link, the entry and exit of prohibited items can be prevented, safeguarding the country's security and interests. On the other hand, for enterprises, smooth customs declaration can ensure that goods enter and exit the country on time, in good quality, and in the required quantity, ensuring the normal operation of the enterprise's production and business activities and avoiding additional costs and losses caused by customs declaration problems.

Take Zhongshitong Company as an example. They have always attached great importance to customs declaration work. In every import and export business, they will arrange professional personnel to be in charge of customs declaration matters, and prepare documents and handle procedures strictly in accordance with the requirements of the customs. It is precisely because of this that their goods have always been cleared smoothly, and their business has continued to expand.

To do customs declaration for import and export well, first of all, professional knowledge and skills are required. Customs declaration involves knowledge in many aspects such as customs regulations, international trade terms, and commodity classification. Relevant staff need to keep learning and accumulating to accurately complete the customs declaration task.

Secondly, pay attention to details. When preparing documents and filling in information, carefully check to ensure that every data and every clause is accurate. Like Mr. Zhang and Ms. Li mentioned before, they both paid great attention to details during the customs declaration process, which is one of the important reasons why they were able to complete the customs declaration smoothly.

Finally, maintain good communication with the customs. If problems are encountered during the customs declaration process, consult the customs in a timely manner and seek solutions, which can avoid many unnecessary troubles.