Customs Documentation Basics for Importers

Customs Documentation Basics for Importers

Customs Documentation Basics for Importers

Customs Documentation Basics for Importers




 




 




 

Customs documentation basics for importers

As FedEx, we can clear non-commercial shipments consigned to individuals weighing up to 30 kg and with a declared value of up to 30 Euros without a Power of Attorney (POA). Also, our Customs Consultants support your import procedures through detailed declarations for shipments sent to individuals between 30-1500 Euros without a Power of Attorney (POA). For businesses, we can clear shipments and samples up to 22 Euros without a POA. All other goods need to be cleared by a customs broker.

While your shipment is travelling, we will screen the paperwork and prepare customs clearance. Only if something is missing or incorrect, will we contact you to get the additional information required. In that case, your prompt reply will support timely clearance and delivery of your shipment.

Good to know: All customs documentation needs to be prepared by the exporter at origin and it is very important that the exporter completes the customs documentation correctly in order to ensure timely and accurate customs clearance

Your role, step by step, in the international shipping process

The role of the importer

Document Icon
Document Icon
Document Icon
alt
alt
alt

Step 1: The shipper will prepare the customs documentation

If it’s the first time you’re shipping internationally with FedEx: Make sure you have enabled Electronic Trade Documents® (ETD) to upload your documentation electronically.  

If it’s the first time you’re shipping this type of goods: Make sure the goods you’re sending are allowed in the country/territory of destination. Identify the customs documentation that is required based on the destination country/territory and the type of goods being shipped.


Print Icon
Print Icon
Print Icon

Step 2: The shipper will prepare the Air Waybill, schedule a pickup and upload the customs documentation

When preparing your shipment, you need to put a copy of your Air Waybill and three copies of the commercial invoice on the package.

Expert tip: You can save time and paper by uploading your customs documents when using FedEx Ship Manager®.

To upload and transmit your documents electronically (and avoid printing), simply enable ETD within FedEx Ship Manager.


alt
alt
alt
Big Rig icon
Big Rig icon
Big Rig icon

Step 3: The shipper will print Air Waybill, Customs documentation and stick it on your shipment

Have your shipment picked up at your convenience.


The role of FedEx

Step 4
Step 4
Step 4
alt
alt
alt

Step 4: We will take care of Export Customs Clearance

We will guide the shipment through export customs clearance. We will only contact you if there is missing or incomplete paperwork.

Good to Know: It’s rare to encounter any export customs delay.


Handle with Care
Handle with Care
Handle with Care

Step 5: We will take care of your shipment in transit

We will take care of your shipment in transit.


Step 6
Step 6
Step 6

Step 6: We will take care of Import Customs Clearance

We will guide the shipment through import customs clearance.

We will contact the recipient if shipment is held in customs and requires formal clearance. If any duty and tax is incurred for FedEx's simplified clearance, we will contact the recipient before final delivery.

Expert tip: The recipient needs to respond to any import issues quickly to ensure a timely delivery of the shipment.


The role of the importer

Step 7
Step 7
Step 7

Step 7: You will receive your shipment

The consignee will receive the shipment at the address completed on the Air Waybill.


Step 8
Step 8
Step 8

Step 8: You will need to pay for duties & taxes

The consignee will need to pay for duties and taxes advanced by FedEx or consignee's customs broker.

Good to know: Depending on the shipment’s value, the importer may need to pay duties & taxes before he can receive the shipment.


Complex customs clearance needs? We’ve got answers!

You need Other Government Agency Processing?

Certain commodities are regulated and controlled by a separate governmental agency and are subject to specific clearance processes. Such processes need to be completed by consignee's customs broker.
 

You need In-Bond transit?

If you choose to use your own customs-clearance department or a brokerage company other than FedEx to clear your inbound shipments, we will charge a service fee to prepare the necessary transfer documentation. We will also move your inbound shipment from the point of arrival to a location you specify.

To find out more, discover all our ancillary clearance services or get in touch with your FedEx Sales Executive.
 

You need a Customized solution?

You can rely on our customs clearance specialist expertise to help you build the right solutions to your most complex customs needs.

Additional tips and customs resources

Exporters
Exporters
Exporters

Customs for exporters

See the steps that you and FedEx must take to help your goods clear customs smoothly.


Document search icon
Document search icon
Document search icon

Document preparation

Everything you need to know about the essential documentation required to satisfy customs authorities.


Profile Icon
Profile Icon
Profile Icon

Register now for 40% off

Let’s keep your business moving. Whether you’re importing or exporting, sign up for a FedEx account now.