So you’ve arranged a shipment from overseas that now requires clearance through Australian Customs?
All importers are encouraged to use the services of a licensed Customs Broker, and this is one of our specialities. We have not just one, but two experienced Customs Brokers that have been in the industry for a combined total of (inexcess of) 80 years. Their knowledge and wisdom makes our customs brokerage team the best at providing you with the most up-to-date and accurate information for the classification and clearance of your cargo.
So let’s start. You’ve arranged to import your goods into Australia, they’re on the water, and you’re not sure what to do now? Here’s where we step in!
1. All documentation relating to the import shipment must be provided to our office. These include, but are not limited to, the following
- Commercial invoice – this document is issued by the supplier and shows how much was charged per item for the shipment. All items must be clearly indicated and currency of transaction must be shown.
- Packing List – This document is also issued by the supplier and indicates the number of packages (matching to the bill of lading), the weight and measurement of each line of cargo.
- Packing Declaration – Another document completed by the supplier. It must be shown on the suppliers letterhead with full address details, must be signed & dated and also include a numerical link to the shipment. A sample of the packing declaration is shown here in our Resources.
- Fumigation certificate – This document is required in it’s original form, or copy form (if security features are shown). The fumigation certificate is a technical document, please contact us for further clarification.
Other documents such as certificate of origin or Free Trade Agreement Certificate may asked to be presented at time of clearance. It will also be requested that you provide us with the delivery address of the consignment. This is for customs and quarantine purposes.
2. Telex release or original bill of lading must be provided to our office prior to the arrival of the cargo. Without the telex release, or having the original bill of lading, we cannot release your cargo. The house bill of lading is a legal document, indicating ownership of the goods.
3. Once Customs (and Quarantine – if required) has been completed, your cargo will then be booking in for delivery to your nominated delivery address. It is important that if your delivery address changes that you inform us immediately to allow us to make the necessary changes.
The act of clearing goods through Australia Customs is an in depth process an in reality shouldn’t really be reduced to a few lines of blog post. The above is just an indication of a few of the steps and documentation that is required for customs clearance.
For further information on clearing your goods through Australian Customs, please contact us directly.
