With the complexities of customs regulations constantly evolving globally, expertise in customs compliance is an essential capability for freight forwarding companies.
By leveraging extensive knowledge, preparation, and technology, freight forwarders enable their clients to successfully navigate customs and border procedures when importing and exporting goods worldwide.
Understanding Regulations
The first key capability freight forwarders must possess is an in-depth, up-to-date understanding of relevant customs regulations worldwide. Experts continually monitor for changes in documentation requirements, restrictions, duties/taxes, and import/export procedures across jurisdictions. They also maintain global customs regulation databases and resources. With this knowledge, forwarders appropriately advise clients on compliance, classification, valuation and other customs matters.
Technology Solutions
Technology plays a crucial role in managing customs complexities. Freight forwarders utilise customs management software that integrates with customs authorities’ systems. This allows for seamless electronic transmission of documentation like customs entries, invoices and cargo manifests. Technology also automates customs payment processing. Forwarders can leverage data analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance trade compliance. Overall, technology solutions optimise efficiency, minimise errors, and aid customs compliance.
Pre-Shipment Advice
An important part of the freight forwarder’s role begins well before shipments are dispatched. Forwarders counsel clients on the appropriate classification of goods using Harmonised System codes to determine applicable duties and taxes for customs declarations. They also advise on proper documentation preparation, licences required, restrictions, eligible duty relief programs and more based on commodity, country of origin and destination. This pre-shipment advice enables seamless customs clearance.
Collaborative Solutions
Freight forwarders provide collaborative solutions that allow clients to outsource customs management. Acting as the official customs broker, forwarders handle all aspects of customs filings, payments, documentation and clearance on the client’s behalf. Close communication ensures appropriate information sharing to facilitate compliance. This collaborative approach provides clients with end-to-end customs support, transferring the burden of regulations management.
Continuous Training
Given the complex, fast-changing nature of customs compliance, freight forwarders place immense emphasis on continuous staff training. Through classroom and e-learning courses, staff are trained on the latest customs procedures, documentation, customs technology systems, prohibited/restricted goods, customs valuation, audits, and more. This creates teams of customs experts that keep forwarders at the cutting edge of compliance.
Conclusion
Navigating the intricate world of customs is a core competency for a freight forwarding company that delivers enormous value for clients. By combining extensive customs knowledge, technology enablement, pre-shipment advice, collaborative solutions and continuous training, forwarders provide robust customs and trade compliance management. This allows forwarders to create smarter, optimised supply chains for clients while removing the stresses and risks of customs compliance.
