1) So you took the trip abroad to purchase goods for your business…

The dollar signs are bouncing around in your head and, before you know it, you’re ready to have them shipped. But did you check with anyone experienced in Customs and Quarantine?

For instance, some cushion fillings require an inspection by Australian Quarantine Officers, and that costs money!

Maybe your goods need to be fumigated; again, more cost to you. In fact, every time they take action, you end up paying.

We guarantee the risks are minimised by ensuring you meet with the legal requirements before the goods arrive, and we’ll apply for Import Permits or exemptions as required.

2) Customs will seize all cargo – that isn’t authorised to be imported!

So when you’re thinking about bringing in a shipment of Canon Cameras, or Nike trainers, consider the legal implications. Any issues with Intellectual Property, Distributorship or the fact that the items might not be genuine, may cost you dearly.

3) Don’t hand over the cash!

At least not until you know the goods are ready to go, otherwise you may lose the lot! Normal practice is to pay 50% up front, and then the balance when your cargo is ready to be picked up for shipping.

Other methods of payment exist, such as a Letter of Credit, which ensures you get your product and the seller gets their money. We can advise and help in the negotiating of terms that suit both parties.

4) Do you know your Incoterms?

You’ve paid the supplier, they say the cargo is ready for pick up – but under what terms did you make the deal?

Incoterms are the international language covering this type of transaction. A simple mistake here could cost you more that the actual goods are worth! For instance, the difference between DDP (Deliver Duty Paid) and EXW (Ex Works) is you paying to get that product to your door, or the seller.

That could mean paying Freight, Customs, Quarantine, Local Charges, and documentation and much more on top of the price you paid for the actual goods.

It gets a lot more involved than that too (just with those terms) and, as Customs Brokers, our vast experience of Incoterms will ensure you are protected.

5) Who’s your Freight Forwarder?

Always have your own Freight Forwarder/Customs Broker involved at this end. Your supplier’s Freight Forwarding Agent will be looking after them and trying to save them money, not you; this could prove very costly if you don’t have someone helping you from this end.

Having us involved from the start will ensure you maintain control of your shipment, how and when it arrives, and ultimately, the cost.

6) Don’t miss a word!

The goods are here, and waiting to be cleared by Customs and Quarantine. What could possibly go wrong?

If there is so much as a single word omitted from the description on your Commercial Invoice, you could end up paying full Customs Duty rates and be subject to a full quarantine inspection – both very costly mistakes.

Our services ensure your Duty Liability is minimised and your Quarantine obligations are met.

Our Customs Brokers are fully experienced in Classification, Tariff Concession Orders,  Free Trade Agreements, Preferential Treatments, Quarantine Import Permits and Exemptions.

7) The Biggest Mistake Of All!

Please don’t assume it’s easy to import. We’ve spent 25 years attaining vast experience and qualifications in the import/export laws, and we will save you money and a lot of potential heartache.

Several of our long-term clients came to us after suffering huge costs and losses because of shipments caught up in Customs and Quarantine – all due to incorrect procedures and documentation.

Want to save money, time and avoid potential heartache when importing or exporting? Call 1300 874 203 now!