Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Small Enterprises And International Shipping Requirements

By Belinda Norbert


Small export businesses have to be well-informed about the nitty-gritty of international shipping. For a start, tariff concerns are important. Tariffs (import and export duties) are imposed by governments on imported products. Each country has different laws. Therefore, conduct your research regarding taxes. Find out the type of goods allowed as well as those which are prohibited.

Customs documentation and regulations also represent an important concern. In many instances, customs pose a major headache for exporters and importers. Make sure to fill out customs forms completely and accurately. Information needed include country of origin; description of cargo contents; and, projected value.

Transport duties include the shipping firm's charges as well as applicable freight taxes. Again, the fees vary depending on the company and port of delivery. Plan the shipment in advance. Figure out the exact dates for moving and the probability of delays because of unforeseen circumstances. You encounter the likelihood of delays for international shipments than domestic haulage. There is no such thing as overnight delivery in overseas shipping.

For small-scale entrepreneurship, the seller is generally liable for all expenses until the consignment has been loaded at the port of origin. After this, the cost is passed on to the buyer at the particular port of destination. As a small business, how do you navigate all of these rules? In particular, small businesses need something that is convenient for the buyer, but at the same time mitigates costs and risks to the buyer. There are advanced cargo tracking systems together with order fulfillment services.

Another concern is consolidated warehousing. Your products will be mixed with other merchandise if you do not have an exclusive shipping container. If your cargo requires consolidation, the goods will be stored in a warehouse which is often in the port of origin. The other essential aspects are port of export; fees for port of origin; and, terminal handling charges. These should be included in the estimates.

The company that owns the vessel will provide you with documents like the Master or Seaway Bill of Lading. Finally, the destination storage facility is known as the customs bonded warehouse. The goods are kept here prior to clearance issued by customs.




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