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Customs clearance

Customs clearance

Customs clearance

Shipping documents

Getting the right documents, licenses and certificates ready is vital for smooth shipping. Here are some of the most common types of paperwork and step-by-step guides on how to fill them in.  

commercial invoice
commercial invoice
commercial invoice

How to fill out a commercial invoice

When it comes to shipping internationally, a commercial invoice is one of the most...


waybill
waybill
waybill

How to fill in an air waybill

If you’re shipping goods internationally, you’ll need to provide an air waybill. This...


goods-description
goods-description
goods-description

How to provide a clear goods description

The key to smooth shipping is providing clear and accurate information on every shipping...


goods-value
goods-value
goods-value

How to declare the value of your goods

Customs use the value to clear your goods and determine the duties and taxes. That's why...


certificate of origin
certificate of origin
certificate of origin

What is a certificate of origin?

Also known as a CO, it's an official document that states where a product was


export
export
export

What export documentation do I need?

Exporting means sending goods from one country to another – and they pass...


license
license
license

What is an export license?

An export license is a document issued by government bodies allowing...



Shipping terms and codes

From HS codes to Incoterms®, there are lots of industry terms to get your head around. Learn what they mean and how to find the ones that apply to your shipment. 

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What is an HS code?

HS code is short for Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding...


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What are Incoterms®?

Incoterms® is short for International Commercial Terms and are a set of 11 rule...


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What is an EORI number?

'EORI number' is short for 'Economic Operators Registration and Identificatio...


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What is CITES?

CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species...


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What is temporary import?

Whether you're setting up an art show or need to send a shoe sample to a store–...


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What are export controls?

If you're sending goods to another country, you need to check its export laws. This...




'How to' guides

Whether it’s calculating taxes or gathering customs documents, shipping abroad can be a tricky process. Our guides take you through what you need to know, so you'll be up to speed and ready to ship in no time.

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How to ship internationally

Shipping internationally may seem complicated, but with this guide you'll find out what... 


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How to ship gifts abroad

When it comes to gifts, there's no expectation of payment and it's usually meant to be...


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How to ship samples

A sample is usually a trial product sent from a seller to buyer, who isn’t usually...


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How to import goods

Importing goods means bringing in something from another country – and...


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How duties and taxes are calculated

Customs authorities are responsible for collecting any duties and taxes on goods...