The Best Way to Fill Out Customs Declarations Form

There are many things to consider when traveling internationally, especially as a business traveler. Aside from having to keep track of your passport, you also have to complete a Customs Declarations form. Not only does it help clear customs faster, but it also helps prevent the risk of being fined or detained for bringing restricted goods into another country. Even if you are used to completing paperwork and have good handwriting, this might not be the easiest task for everyone: customs declaration is quite complex and requires specific details about the items you’re bringing into the country. To make this process simpler for you as well as other travelers, we have outlined everything you need to know about filling out a customs declaration form.

 

What is a customs declaration form?

A customs declaration form is a document that helps you declare the items you are bringing into a country on your travel. This includes items you purchased in other countries as well as items you are carrying with you. While each country has its own customs declaration form that must be filled out, some common details must be included in every form. These include a description of items, their value, the country they are coming from, the port of entry, and the travel dates. Customs officers use this information to determine if the goods should be taxed or if they might pose a risk to the country.

 

Who Needs to Complete a Customs Declaration Form?

As mentioned, every traveler needs to complete a Customs Declaration form. This includes both business and leisure travelers. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: Every country has different regulations for what can be brought in without paying a fee or without paying an import tax. Some countries are strict about certain items, especially food items and plants, and may even fine you for bringing them without completing an official customs declaration form. While this is the case for most countries, the US is an exception. Some items are prohibited from entry in the US, even though they are permitted in other countries. Moreover, some countries may have different rules for different modes of transportation, such as air travel or cruise travel. For example, if you are traveling by cruise, you have to complete a customs declaration form when arriving in a new country. If you are flying, you do not have to fill out this form and can keep your items in your carry-on.

 

Where to find a Customs Declaration Form?

While every country has its own Customs Declaration form, there are some general guidelines you should keep in mind when looking for the form. These are: The customs declaration form is available online. This can be helpful if you are traveling in a group and want to print a few copies. The customs declaration form should be available in the language of the country you are visiting. Although some customs declaration forms can be translated into other languages, it is best to find the form in your native language. If you are traveling on a cruise ship, the cruise line will provide you with a customs declaration form. You can also find customs declaration forms on the website of the country you are visiting. This should provide you with the necessary details and assist you in filling out the form.

 

Step-by-step guide on how to complete your customs declaration form

Here are some additional details to help you complete your customs declaration form. The declaration form should be completed before you arrive at the airport or seaport. If you are completing a paper form, it is best to do this at least 24 hours before your flight or cruise departs. This is to ensure that you have enough time to correct any mistakes you might make. Once you’ve found the form and read the instructions, you can start completing the sections. Information about the traveler - You’ll need to provide information about each traveler in the group, including name, contact information, nationality, and other details. Information about the items - The next part of the declaration form asks for information about the items you are bringing with you. First, you need to select a category for each item. The categories are usually general, and you can find the specifics of each category in the instructions of the customs declaration form. Next, you have to provide a detailed description of the item, including its brand name and model. Finally, you need to put the value of each item. This section gets tricky because you have to make sure you are including the value of the item, the value of its packing, and the value of any gift items. The gift items will most likely not be taxed, but you still need to include them in the customs declaration form. Information about the trip - In the next section, you need to provide the reason for your trip and the details of the flight or cruise. You also have to indicate how long the trip will last and in which port you will arrive. Information about the traveler’s relationship - In this section, you need to provide details about the relationship between you and the people you are traveling with. For example, if you are traveling with your spouse, you need to indicate this on the declaration form. Information about the shipper - This section is for the person who is shipping the items you are bringing with you. You need to provide the information of the shipper, including name, address, and contact number.

Should you use Express Courier or Registered Mail?

While customs declaration forms are quite simple and easy to fill out, some items are more difficult to declare. For example, if you are bringing food items or live plants, you need to declare them to customs even if they are in a carry-on. The good news is that there are some ways to make this process easier, especially if you are bringing food items. The first is to use an express courier service, such as FedEx or UPS. These services are faster than regular mail and will clear customs faster, which is especially important when you need to get perishable items to your destination on time. Registered mail is another option to consider if you want to ensure your items are cleared faster. This service allows you to submit the customs declaration form and the items you’re bringing with you via mail. It is most commonly used for gifts and artwork.

 

Conclusion

Since completing a customs declaration form is a crucial part of traveling internationally, it is important to make sure you understand the process and know what to expect. There are many things to consider when completing this form, including the type of items you are bringing with you, their value, and the country they are coming from. It is also important to read the instructions and follow them closely to avoid mistakes. With these details in mind, you should have an easier time completing this form.

What You Should Know Before You Hire Customs Clearing Agents

How To Hire Customs Clearing Agents: A Complete Guide

Imports and exports are integral to any strong economy. However, international trade isn’t always a straightforward process. In fact, it can be quite complex. The process of importing goods into a country and then exporting them again is known as ‘customs clearance. To have a smooth operation of international trade, every country has its own laws and regulations for importing and exporting goods. These legal requirements are collectively referred to as customs legislation. To help exporters and importers meet the requirements of the law, customs agencies at ports and airports hire clearing agents to assist them with their transactions. As an importer or exporter, you need to know how hiring customs clearing agents will benefit you in the long run.

What is a Customs Clearing Agent?

A Customs Clearance Agent is a third party that helps importers and exporters clear goods through customs. Clearing agents can be customs brokers or freight forwarders. Exporters or importers can also act as their own clearing agents. Customs agents, who are also known as customs brokers, help importers and exporters clear goods through customs. Customs brokers help companies by locating goods and services that meet their needs, negotiating contracts, and advising them on legal and regulatory issues. They also help their clients navigate the complexities of importing goods into and exporting goods out of the country. Customs brokers and freight forwarders are the most common clearing agents. Customs agents can help importers and exporters with a wide range of issues. These include managing documentation, navigating government agencies, and making sure goods comply with legal requirements.

Why Hire A Customs Clearing Agent?

When your business starts expanding internationally, hiring a Customs Clearance Agent can be a wise decision. Customs agents are highly experienced in the field of international trade. They possess the expertise to help you clear your goods through customs efficiently. This will save you both time and money. When an agent is clearing your goods, you don’t have to be present at the port. This will help you save on travel and accommodation costs. Hiring customs clearing agents will also help you stay on top of legal compliance. At times, even if your goods are compliant, you may not be able to prove it. If your goods are not compliant and you haven’t taken any legal measures to remedy this, your goods may be seized. This will not only affect your business but will also lead to serious reputational damage.

 Types of Clearing Agents

There are many types of Customs Clearance Agent. Customs brokers and freight forwarders are the most common types of customs clearing agents. Customs brokers: Customs brokers help importers and exporters clear goods through customs. Customs brokers can be independent, or they can work for a customs broker firm. Customs brokers charge a fee based on the number of transactions they complete. Freight forwarders: A freight forwarder is different from a customs broker. A freight forwarder is an agent that deals with forwarding goods by sea, air, or land. A freight forwarder charges a fee based on the volume of goods or weight of the shipment. Customs agents also help importers and exporters to get goods into the country by preventing them from being held up at the border. Customs agents can help with all the paperwork required to clear goods through customs.

How to Find a Reputable Clearing Agent?

Before you sign on the dotted line with a Customs Clearance Agent, you should research and find out as much as you can about them. Here are some steps you can take to find a reputable customs clearing agent. 

1. Ask for references - Before finalizing a customs clearing agent, you must ask for references. The best way to find a reputable Customs Clearing Agent is by asking for references from your industry peers. You can also ask for references from your trusted vendors.
2. Test the waters - When you are ready to hire a customs clearing agent, don’t just go with the first company you find. Instead, contact two to three different customs clearing agents and ask them to give you a quote. Ask them to provide their services, timings, and their experience in the field. 
3. Check their credentials - Before you hire a customs clearing agent, make sure they are licensed by the government. To find out if an agency or individual is licensed, check the government’s web portal.

The Advantages of Using Clearing Agents

Expertise – Customs clearing agents have years of experience in the field of international trade. They know all the ins and outs of customs regulations. They have contacts in the government agencies and can help you avoid certain fines and penalties.

Legally compliant – Customs clearing agents help importers and exporters make sure their goods are compliant with the law. They can also help you find the best way to clear your merchandise through customs.

Full service – Customs clearing agents offer a one-stop-shop service. They can help you with every aspect of importing goods.

No reputational damage - Customs agents can help importers and exporters make sure their goods are compliant with the law. They can also help you find the best way to clear your merchandise through customs. Clearing agents can also help you get your goods cleared without any fines or penalties.

Conclusion

A Customs Clearance Agent is a third party that helps importers and exporters clear goods through customs. Customs agents can be customs brokers or freight forwarders. Exporters or importers can also act as their own clearing agents. Customs clearing agents charge a fee for their services and can be very helpful, but you must be aware of the risks involved. When hiring a customs clearing agent, make sure you are transparent about your shipment.

How is the CHIEF system being replaced by CDS?

 In August 2018, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) launched a gradual rollout of the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system. It replaces with CDS, which was primarily handling a limited number of Customs Declaration. CDS will be in charge of a broader range of Customs Declarations Northern Ireland, the UK or outside the UK.

Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF)

• The UK government uses the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system to conduct customs declaration operations.

• The National Export System (NES) is the existing computerized system used by the UK government supported by CHIEF.

• NES provides an electronic gateway for customs declarations.

Customs Declaration Services (CDS)

• “CDS is a new reporting system that processes declarations for products entering and departing the UK or EU through ports and airports, with all customs information provided electronically.”

• The owner of the items submits the Customs Declaration, or a person working on their behalf, or the person who has authority over the commodities. 

• The declaration must be filed at the customs office, where the items will be present in the near future.

CHIEF V/s CDS

CHIEF	CDS
The traders who import or export products outside of the EU process declarations for items entering or departing ports and airports.  Generally, most companies use the CHIEF system to electronically fill out customs forms and compute and pay the relevant taxes and fees.	CDS will provide the same functionality as the current system, but with substantially more capabilities, such as the ability to see past import and export data on pre-defined reports, verify tariffs, apply for new authorizations and simplifications, and review duty deferment statements. It will also provide a variety of self-service tools, instructions, and checklists over the internet.

When will the CHIEF system is completely replaced?

The CHIEF system will dismiss in two stages: 

• Import declarations will withdraw on September 30, 2022.

• Export declarations will withdraw on March 31, 2023.

The National Exports System (NES) will dismiss on March 31, 2023.

How you can use CDS?

To use the CDS, you must first:

• Hire a customs middleman, customs clearance agent, freight forwarder, quick parcel operator, or software supplier to submit customs declarations on your behalf.

• Existing employees can be trained to use the CDS to complete customs declarations. At P2P Customs you will get the full-ledged learning course for Customs Declaration.

• If you want to complete customs declarations on your own, you'll need the appropriate software, authorizations, and knowledge.

Final Notes:

P2P Customs will continue to file customs declarations Northern Ireland, UK, and outside the UK on our clients' behalf. CDS, on the other hand, demand more information than CHIEF, therefore we'll have to ask our clients for these additional facts. Please visit our site to see what information we require from you.

Simply put, we strive to work actively with all of our clients to guarantee a smooth transition from CHIEF to CDS. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns regarding the upcoming changes, whether you are existing or new to our website.

How do Custom Clearance Agents help you?

 Are you curious to know about what is Customs Clearance process? How do Customs Clearance Agents UK help you? If, yes then this blog is for you. Continue reading the blog and find out how Customs Clearance Agents will help you.

Who are Customs Clearance Agents?

Whenever you ship products or goods from one country to another. A shipper will ask you what customs clearance entails and how it relates to your shipping alternatives.

Each country's customs clearance quota must meet by every international ocean freight shipment. As a result, Customs clearance is important while you ship your goods in various countries. You must get export clearance before your freight will depart the port of origin. Similarly, import clearance is required before your cargo will reach its target country.

Now, let’s talk about the importance of Custom Clearance Agents UK.

Being stuck at the customs house is one of the worst things that can possibly happen to a shipment. A customs broker or agent can help you in reducing the chances of this occurring. They provide a number of advantages, which is why importers and exporters from various countries hire customs agents to handle their cargo.

The functions that the Customs Clearance Agents perform are as follows:

• Documentation and legal formalities - 

Customs Agents help you in the whole customs clearing process and verify that your consignment complies with all import and export standards, rules, and regulations. 

• Avoid Penalties - 

Customs agents find and calculate all duties and taxes quickly and accurately because they have a thorough understanding of the rules and exclusions.

• Minimum Cost of Shipping - 

Reputed Customs Agents saves your money on shipments. They will help you choose the best shipping options based on your company's needs. 

• Properly identification of goods - 

Customs agents are well-versed in the responsibilities or taxes imposed on goods when they enter a country. Every item is assigned a unique order number and is divided into important groups and sub-groups in order to facilitate accurate and simple identification for the purpose of acquiring customs duty.

• Follow-Up - 

The customs broker will maintain contact with the customs office. They'll keep following up to ensure that the shipment is checked and the paperwork is done in less time. 

• Give relief to companies and employees - 

Finally, choosing professional Customs Agents is always a good option. They will handle the company's import procedure and, allowing companies and employees to focus only on the core business activities.

Conclusion: 

So, if you want to gain all of the above benefits, engage reputable customs clearing agents. If you have any concerns or questions?

Please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be glad to help you.