What is customs clearance and how does it work?
All goods entering the European Union from China must go through customs clearance. It's a mandatory procedure and, when handled badly, the most common cause of delays and extra costs.
In this guide we explain what customs clearance is, its stages and what documentation you need so your import flows without blocks.
What customs clearance is
Customs clearance (or import clearance) is the set of procedures by which customs authorises the entry of goods into the EU territory, after verifying they meet the rules and that the corresponding taxes have been paid. It's formalised through a customs declaration, the SAD (Single Administrative Document).
The clearance stages
- Presentation of the goods and the declaration (SAD) to customs.
- Documentary check: classification, value, origin and product rules.
- Possible physical or documentary inspection (red, orange or green channel).
- Assessment and payment of duties and VAT.
- Release: customs authorises the exit and the goods become freely available.
Who does the clearance
Usually a customs representative (customs broker or freight forwarder) files the declaration on your behalf. To import you also need an EORI number, the economic operator identifier the EU requires of anyone carrying out customs operations.
Documentation you need
- Commercial invoice and packing list.
- Transport document (sea Bill of Lading or air Air Waybill).
- Certificate of origin, if applicable.
- Product documentation (CE marking, certificates) when the rules require it.
Clearance according to the Incoterm
Who handles import clearance depends on the agreed Incoterm. With FOB or CIF you (or your agent) manage it at destination; with DDP the supplier takes it on, delivering the goods already cleared to your door.
How R'S WARE helps you
We coordinate clearance with customs brokers, prepare and review the documentation and, with the DDP model, deliver the goods already cleared to your warehouse, without you having to deal with the formalities.
