Customs Information | Import Export Abelt

Customs Clearance

Summary: Import Export Abelt ensures smooth international shipping by managing all required customs documentation, including Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, and necessary licenses. We provide accurate HS code classification to determine duty rates and trade agreement eligibility. We guide clients on Incoterms (DDP, DAP, FOB, CIF) to clarify who pays duties and handles shipping. For shipments to the US and Canada, we assist with customs bonds, importer registration, and ISF filing. Restricted items such as hazardous materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and endangered species products require special permits before shipping.

Required Documentation for Customs Clearance

For smooth international shipping, the following documents are required:

Commercial Invoice – Includes seller/buyer details, product descriptions, HS codes, country of origin, Incoterms, and transaction currency.

Packing List – Details quantities, weights (net and gross), dimensions, and packaging types for each shipment.

Bill of Lading (Ocean) or Airway Bill (Air) – Proof of shipment and ownership.

Certificate of Origin – Verifies where products were manufactured for tariff benefits.

Import/Export Licenses – Required for restricted goods such as food, chemicals, or medical supplies.

Understanding HS Codes

Harmonized System (HS) codes are international product classification numbers used by customs authorities worldwide. These 6-12 digit codes determine:

Import duty rates and taxes

Eligibility for trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, AfCFTA)

Product restrictions or special requirements

Abelt Export & Import ensures accurate HS code classification for all shipments to prevent delays and fines.

Incoterms – Who Pays for What?

Incoterms define delivery responsibilities between buyer and seller. Common terms include:

Incoterm	Meaning	Responsibility
DDP	Delivered Duty Paid	Seller pays all duties and taxes; buyer receives goods cleared
DAP	Delivered at Place	Seller delivers; buyer pays import duties
FOB	Free on Board	Seller delivers to port; buyer handles ocean freight and customs
CIF	Cost, Insurance & Freight	Seller covers cost, insurance, freight to destination port

Incoterm

Meaning

Responsibility

DDP

Delivered Duty Paid

Seller pays all duties and taxes; buyer receives goods cleared

DAP

Delivered at Place

Seller delivers; buyer pays import duties

FOB

Free on Board

Seller delivers to port; buyer handles ocean freight and customs

CIF

Cost, Insurance & Freight

Seller covers cost, insurance, freight to destination port

Prohibited & Restricted Items

Certain goods require special permits or are banned from international trade. These include:

Hazardous materials (chemicals, batteries, flammable liquids)

Food and agricultural products (require SPS certificates)

Pharmaceuticals and medical devices (require health authority approvals)

Endangered species products (CITES permits required)

Contact Abelt before shipping restricted items to verify requirements.