One of the most challenging aspects of supplying goods is being able to understand and navigate all of the border requirements for each destination. If you get any part of the paperwork wrong or pay incorrect customs charges there will be delays and problems.
That’s where a customs broker like WWCF, for instance, comes in. They have the knowledge and experience to handle all the different parts of the customs procedures so that your goods can travel on to their final destination with as much ease and speed as possible.
Do you know the role of customs brokers and why they are so integral to supply chain logistics?
Here is a look at what a customs broker can help with.
The right documentation
Learning which documents are required for each shipment and how to present them in the correct manner is something that is very time consuming and easy to get wrong.
A customs broker has the knowledge to be able to ensure that all of the correct supporting documents and labels are supplied for a smooth onward journey through customs control.
Rules and regulations regarding what contents are permissible are very relevant and serious delays can occur when you don’t have the right documentation.
Paying the right customs duties
Even when you have got every other aspect of your labeling and documentation correct you can still experience delays and problems if you have not paid the right customs duties.
Understanding the tariffs and calculating the correct duty to pay is challenging if you don’t have the necessary knowledge or experience to get it right.
As you would expect, a customs broker knows every aspect of this part of the transaction and can often prove invaluable when it comes to getting the customs duty right and presenting the information in the correct way.
Communication assistance
A customs broker provides a valuable line of communication between you and the authorities.
Being able to converse and comply with government authorities is an essential aspect of the customs process. A good customs broker will make this as easy and seamless as possible.
Compliance with laws and regulations
The complexities of border laws and regulations sometimes make it difficult to comply even when you are doing your very best to get everything correct and legal.
You will obviously wish to ensure that you meet every aspect of the laws and regulations so that your goods arrive in a timely manner by crossing borders without any problems.
A customs broker can help make that happen.
A guiding hand from ship to plane
Shipping procedures can be hugely complex. When you are importing or exporting goods that are being transported across various borders and often traveling by ship and plane you need to get every part of the paperwork and fees correct.
That’s why so many companies put their trust in a customs broker. They make compliance with all of the rules and regulations far easier.
Using a good customs broker is a smart move. It takes the worry and stress out of the shipping process and leaves you free to focus on other aspects of your business.