Steps for customs clearance

Customs Clearance

Customs clearance is a crucial step in the import and export process, requiring businesses to not only prepare all necessary information but also to have a thorough understanding of regulations to ensure smooth customs clearance.

The importance of customs clearance

Customs clearance is a mandatory process that enables customs authorities to understand the goods, related taxes, and fees. It serves as the basis for verifying the legality and safety of goods entering or leaving Vietnam. Properly and fully completed declarations help businesses avoid legal risks, unnecessary costs, and delays.

Customs clearance process

To ensure a fast and smooth customs declaration process, VELA recommends that businesses follow these steps for maximum efficiency:

    1. Determine the HS code for goods: this foundational step is crucial for an accurate customs declaration. The HS code determines applicable tax rates and specific legal requirements.
    2. Prepare all documents: documents like the sales contract, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin should be carefully prepared to ensure validity for declaration.
    3. Enter information into the system: authorities now use electronic customs declaration systems, allowing businesses to input detailed information about goods via software or customs platforms.

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Key points for successful customs clearance

Import businesses often face challenges in the customs clearance process, especially when unfamiliar with critical aspects. This impacts the efficiency of customs clearance and directly affects cost, time, and Logistics risks.

    • Thoroughly check HS codes and related regulations: HS codes impact not only tax rates but also whether the goods require special inspection.

    • Ensure accuracy of information: small errors in declaration details (e.g., quantity, value, HS code) can lead to delays or requests for additional information.

    • Choose an appropriate carrier: this affects delivery terms (Incoterms) and responsibilities related to costs and insurance. Selecting the right method helps optimize costs and delivery time.

Tips for fast and accurate customs clearance

Managing information and documents systematically increases the accuracy and efficiency of customs clearance. Beyond basic elements like HS codes, information accuracy, and shipping methods, businesses should focus on management tools and updates to ensure a smooth customs process and minimize risks.

    • Use document management software: this software stores and manages all required documents, making it easy to retrieve and use when declaring.

    • Regularly update on policies and tax rates: policies and tax rates may change, so businesses should stay updated to handle new cases accurately.

    • Immediate contact for issues: if issues arise, contacting a logistics support provider helps solve problems quickly and avoids delays and extra costs.

Customs Clearance

Benefits of using VELA’s customs clearance services

VELA is not only a customs clearance service provider but also a trusted partner throughout the Logistics process. With the motto “support and optimize,” VELA is committed to offering comprehensive and professional solutions. From reducing risks and optimizing processes to saving costs and time, VELA helps businesses manage and improve efficiency in import-export operations.

    • Experienced team of experts: VELA has a team of seasoned experts in customs declaration who are well-versed in each step, from HS codes to tax rates and required documentation, ensuring businesses complete records quickly and accurately. For each shipment, VELA analyzes and evaluates compliance with customs regulations, preventing common errors and unnecessary costs.

    • Quickly resolving arising issues: during customs clearance, VELA is ready to support businesses if any issues arise, ensuring no delays. Unexpected risks like missing documents, incorrect information, or additional requests from customs authorities can affect business timelines. VELA is committed to solving these situations promptly in coordination with customs authorities, saving businesses time and ensuring goods flow smoothly.

    • Minimizing costs and waiting time: with a modern management system and optimized declaration process, VELA helps businesses reduce logistics costs and waiting times in customs clearance. We employ advanced technology to monitor and manage the entire customs declaration process, from document storage to rapid information processing on a single platform, allowing businesses to avoid unexpected costs and improve operational efficiency.

If your business is seeking a reliable customs declaration partner, VELA is the top choice. With an experienced team, we are committed to providing free consultations and the best support for businesses throughout the customs process.