Shipping Regulatory Update
Customs regulations for inbound and outbound shipments change from time to time. We have collated important announcements by customs authorities worldwide to help our customers stay up-to-date when shipping with us. Timely understanding and compliance with new requirements such as duty and tax information, tariff descriptions, product-harmonized codes, and customs clearance documentation will avoid costly shipping delays
Assembly Shipment Order Compliance For Multiple Suppliers
Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) has released Australian Customs Notice (ACN) 2013/20 regarding Customs and Border Protection’s approach to managing cargo reporting compliance. This has a particular impact on assembly shipment orders and the process for complying with ACBPS’ policy and legislative requirements.
Importers and exporters should be aware that ACBPS is now enforcing the requirement that every supplier must be declared on a separate air waybill. The information will then be communicated via the cargo report to ACBPS so they can carry out a proper risk assessment and facilitate the clearance of the cargo.
All shipments arriving into Australia for one consignee that have multiple suppliers must now be shipped individually on separate air waybills from each supplier. Multiple suppliers cannot be consolidated into the same consignment under one air waybill. Preparation for assembly shipment orders must adhere to the requirement that only one supplier/consignee is permitted per air waybill.
Further Information on these changes can be found on the ACBPS website by clicking here or to view ACN 2013/20 click here.
If you would like to learn more about compliance on assembly shipment orders for multiple suppliers, please contact your Customer Service team on 0800 733 339 or your dedicated FedEx Account Sales Executive.
- Increase in New Zealand Customs Service Transaction Fees and Ministry for Primary Industries Biosecurity Levy
-
The New Zealand Customs Service and the Ministry for Primary Industries have increased their transaction fees and biosecurity levy rates to support the shared cost of implementing Tranche 1 of the Joint Border Management System (JBMS). Tranche 1 is the first phase of the JBMS program which includes the setting up of the Trade Single Window & introducing new sophisticated risk assessment and targeting tools.
JBMS is a joint initiative by New Zealand Customs and the Ministry for Primary Industries to modernize and integrate New Zealand’s border clearance processes. JBMS will enable the two agencies to share processes, data and technology and this will lead to more effective, efficient and consistent processing of people, goods and craft.
Effective August 1, 2013, new Customs transaction fees and MPI biosecurity levy rate including Tranche 1 costs are as follows:
Import Entry Charges
Current Fee (incl GST)
New Fee
(incl GST)Increase
Import Entry Transaction Fee
$25.30
$29.26
$3.96
Biosecurity Entry Levy
$12.77
$17.63
$4.86
Total Import Entry Transaction Fee (IETF)
$38.07
$46.89
$8.82
Export Entry Charges
Current Fee (incl GST)
New Fee
(incl GST)Increase
Export Entry Transaction Fee
$14.56
$17.94
$3.38
All figures are in New Zealand dollars and GST-inclusive unless otherwise stated.
Full information on the increased fees and charges can be found on the New Zealand Customs Service and Ministry for Primary Industries websites respectively:• http://www.customs.govt.nz/features/bordersector/jbms/Pages/default.aspx
- New Korea Customs Regulation on Bonded Transportation
-
Effective July 1, 2013, Korea Customs promulgated a new regulation prohibiting express carriers from transporting express shipments to normal bonded warehouses before customs clearance completes. Special bonded areas and Free Trade Zones are exempt from this regulation, but express shipments designated for other areas should be kept at the express carrier’s own warehouse during the clearance process.
In light of the new regulation, FedEx Express recommends consignees in Korea to use a FedEx designated broker to clear express shipments if those shipments are transported to anywhere other than special bonded areas or Free Trade Zones. If consignees want to use another customs clearance broker to clear their express shipments, they still must keep their shipments in the FedEx Express warehouse during the clearance process and an additional storage fee will be imposed starting from the 4th day of its arrival in the FedEx warehouse.
- Please use FedEx International Broker Select (BSO) when shipping high-pressure gas to Japan
-
Imports of high-pressure gas to Japan require imports inspection by the prefectural governor or designated organizations for safety compliance. FedEx does not handle the clearance process of high-pressure gas imports; therefore, customers who want to import high-pressure gas to Japan need to designate another customs clearance broker by using the FedEx International Broker Select.
- Indonesian Custom Clearance Requirement
-
In order to minimize customs clearance delays when shipping to Indonesia, we would like to remind all customers to provide all the necessary and appropriate inbound documents for their shipments.
We also would like to encourage all customers to read the clearance requirement and information summary below prior shipping into Indonesia.
Value
Weight
Type
Documentation Required
Clearance Charges
No Limit > 100 Kg Extended Formal Entry - Taxpayer Identification Number/NPWP
- Importer Identification Number/APIT
- Power of Attorney/POA
- Customs Identification Number/NIK
- Other required licenses
- Bank Charge (IDR 50,000)
- Advance Fee (2.0% of Duties & Taxes)
- Handling Charge (based on applicable weight break)
- Admin Charge (IDR 40,000)
- VAT (10% Handling Charge & Admin Charge)
- Warehouse Charge (based on applicable weight break)
- Additional charges will be applied for shipments selected by customs for physical inspection of content
>USD 50 < 100 Kg Simplified Formal Entry - Taxpayer Identification Number/NPWP
- Importer Identification Number/APIT (Tax/PPh - 2.5%)
- Without Importer Registration Number/APIT (Tax/PPh - 7.5%)
- Without Taxpayer Identification Number /NPWP (Tax/PPh - 15%)
- Bank Charge (IDR 50,000)
- Advance Fee (2.0% of Duties & Taxes)
- Handling Charge (IDR 250,000)
- Admin Charge (IDR 50,000)
- Tax / PPh (2.5% / 7.5% / 15% of Duties & Taxes)
- VAT (10% of Advance Fee, Handling Charge & Admin Charge)
- Warehouse Charge (if being caged > 3 days and based on applicable weight break)
<USD 50 <100 Kg Deminimis - Handling Charge (IDR 50,000)
- VAT (10% of Handling Charge)
No Limit > 100 Kg Free Trade Zone - P20 - POA, Customs Release Permit from FTZ
- FTZ Import Declaration
Note:
Consignee prepares the Customs Release Permit and submits it to FedEx to clear the shipment from customs
- Warehouse Charge (if being caged > 4 days and based on applicable weight break)
No Limit < 100 Kg Free Trade Zone - P35 - MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with FedEx ID – annually renewed
- POA – monthly renewed
Note:
FedEx Broker prepares the Customs Release Permit and clears the shipment from customs
- Warehouse Charge (if being caged > 4 days and based on applicable weight break)
No Limit No Limit PP8 - Diplomatic Bag - Import Declaration (PP8) endorsed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- POA
- Handling Charge (IDR 250,000 if weight : 1-100kg)
- Admin Charge (IDR 40,000)
- VAT (10% of Handling Charge & Admin Charge)
- Warehouse Charge (if being caged > 3 days and based on applicable weight break)
- Indonesian Customs requires labeling products in the local language (Bahasa) for importing consumer goods.
- No Commercial Value (NCV) or 0 is not an acceptable value.
- All non-document shipments must have an original Commercial Invoice. Multiple piece shipments also require a packing list clearly stating the contents of each piece and a Commercial Invoice should be itemized so Customs can match the packing list to the Commercial Invoice. It is recommended for the shipper to provide the harmonized system (HS) code on the Air Waybill & Commercial Invoice to support the clearance process.
- USED products/shipments, regardless of value and weight, are subject to Extended Formal Entry Clearance and require a Permit from the Ministry of Trade.
- Shipments weighing over 100kg are not allowed for individuals. Consignee must be Indonesian legal entity to receive shipments over 100kg.
- Temporary import requires a Letter of Application for Temporary Import from the consignee addressed to the Chief of Customs explaining the details of the commodity, purpose of the import and the date when the shipment would be re-exported. The consignee needs to attach the exhibition schedule and other related paperwork required by customs. The consignee is requested to provide a Bank Guarantee that equals 100% of the total duties and taxes incurred for the shipment and a refund will be provided after re-exportation.
NOTES:
- Seeds require an Import Permit/License from the Department of Agriculture and are subject to plant quarantine regulations (CITES).
- Mobile phones, cell phones, and handheld computers are prohibited as personal shipments.
- Regulations require that the importation of controlled items (food and beverages, traditional medicine, supplements, cosmetics, clothing, foot wear, electronics, mobile phones, cell phones, handheld computers and toys) can only be processed by registered importers with a special license from the Ministry of Trade. Failure to provide the license can result in return of the shipment.
As always, customers are reminded of the need to ensure your compliance with Indonesian customs laws and regulations, together with FedEx terms and conditions. Please contact your local Sales Team or Customer Service Team if you have any questions.
- Germany implements declaration requirement for wood packaging material (WPM) and dunnage
-
As of February 1, 2013, Germany requires mandatory declaration for all imports, which contain wood packaging material (WPM) and dunnage (e.g. used to build ULDs), to the national authority responsible for the point of entry. This requirement applies only to solid wood more than 6mm thick from non-EU countries. It does not apply to materials originating in Switzerland. Transit or transload shipments cleared for transit bond within Germany are not affected.
The declaration has to be made electronically by FedEx before customs clearance and must contain the following data elements:
- Shipper address
- Consignee address
- HS code
- AWB number
- IPPC-stamp (International Plant Protection Convention) (Yes/No)
- Type of treatment performed in the country of origin (Heat treated or fumigated)
The shipper must provide this information on the commercial invoice, other shipping documentation or on a separate statement accompanying the shipment. Physical spot checks can be made by the authority. Shipments may be delayed one day.
Shipments without the IPPC-stamp cannot be imported to Germany.
- New Indonesia Regulations On the Importation of Controlled Items
-
The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has recently issued Regulation 83/M-DAG/PER/12/2012, which regulates the importation of controlled items. Commodities included as controlled items are food and beverages, traditional medicine, supplements, cosmetics, clothing, footwear, electronics and toys.
Under this new regulation the importation of controlled items can only be conducted by registered importers with a special license from the Ministry of Trade. Failure to provide the license can result in the return of the shipment.
To avoid such incidences, FedEx recommends that customers shipping controlled items to Indonesia obtain all the necessary licenses and ensure all the required documents accompany the related commodities.
FedEx recommends that shippers take note of the following requirements:
To get an importer registration number for a controlled item, the importer must submit a written request to the Indonesian Ministry of Trade with the following:- Copy of the importer identification number (API), customs identification number (NIK), and special importer identification number (NPIK) for the importation of controlled products affected by mandatory NPIK provisions
- Company registration certificate (TDP)
- Taxpayer identification number (NPWP)
- One year import plan, which includes the quantity, type of product, the 10 digit HS code and port of entry
Other key points:- Every import activity for controlled items will be verified at the origin country by a surveyor. A surveyor must have at least five years of import experience, a branch or representatives and a network abroad.
- A registered importer for controlled items must send an import execution report every three months.
- The license will be revoked for failure to submit an import execution report twice and/or not importing controlled items over a six-month period.
You can find the details of the regulation at this link (Bahasa Indonesia only):http://inatrade.kemendag.go.id/referensi/download.php?filedown=153.pdf&id=2
If you have further questions, please contact our Customer Service team. - New Indonesia Regulations on the Importation and Distribution of Cell Phones, Laptops, and Tablet Computers
-
The Indonesian Ministry of Trade recently issued Regulation 82/M-DAG/PER/12/2012, which regulates the importation and distribution of cell phones, laptops, and tablet computers.
This new regulation allows only registered importers with a special license from the Ministry of Trade to import cell phones, laptops and tablet computers and mandates that registered importers hold contracts with at least three local distributors. The personal importation of cell phones, laptops, and tablet computers is prohibited. Failure to have and provide the special license can result in the return of the shipment.
To avoid such incidences, FedEx recommends that all customers shipping cell phones, laptops, and tablet computers to Indonesia obtain all necessary licenses and ensure the required documents accompany the related commodities.
FedEx recommends that shippers take note of the following requirements:
To be able to import cell phones, laptops and tablet computers, the importer must have:
- An importer registration number for cell phones, laptops and tablet computers (for the company);
- A cell phone, laptop and tablet computer import agreement (the license to import); and,
- The imported product registration mark for cell phones, laptops and tablet computers (for the product).
To get an importer registration number for cell phones, laptops and tablet computers, the importer must have:
- An importer identification number (API), a customs identification number, and a special importer identification number for electronics and its components;
- Proof of a cooperation agreement with at least three distributors;
- A testament of experience as a cell phone, laptop and tablet computer importer;
- A testament of experience as a cell phone, laptop and tablet computer distributor for at least three years; and,
- The importer registration number for cell phones, laptops and tablet computers will be valid for 2 years only.
To get a cell phone, laptop and tablet computer import agreement, the importer must have:
- An importer registration number for cell phones, laptops and tablet computers;
- An imported product identification mark from the Indonesian Ministry of Industry;
- Valid certification for telecommunication devices and equipment from the Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Information;
- A label in Bahasa Indonesia;
- A proof of appointment letter from the foreign principal, validated by a local state notary and commerce attaché/diplomatic official;
- A plan to import the goods within one year; and,
- A statement from the foreign principal validating the one-year plan.
Other key points:
- Imported cell phones, laptops and tablet computers can only be distributed to the distributor, not directly to the consumer or retailer.
- The regulation also applies to cell phones, laptops and tablet computers shipped to free trade zones and free ports.
- Every import activity for cell phones, laptops and tablet computers will be verified at the origin country by a surveyor. A surveyor must at least have five years of import experience and have a branch or representatives and network abroad.
- A registered importer of cell phones, laptops and tablet computers must send a monthly report.
- The license will be revoked after two failures to submit the monthly report or for not importing cell phones, laptops or tablet computers within a six-month period.
You can download the details of the regulation from this link (Bahasa Indonesia only):
http://inatrade.kemendag.go.id/referensi/download.php?filedown=151.pdf&id=2
For further enquiries, please contact our Customer Service team at 0800 733 339. - Mandatory Use of EORI Number in the EUMandatory Use of EORI Number in the EU
-
Since July 1, 2009, the European Union (EU) legislation has required that all member states adopt the Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) scheme.
All Economic Operators (defined as natural or legal persons whose businesses are regulated by EU Customs legislation) need to use their unique EORI reference number in all electronic communications with Customs and other government agencies involved in the international movement of goods. This means that anyone involved with export, transit or import operations need to have such a number.
The unique EORI number is allocated to each Economic Operator in the EU and must be used in all member states in which they operate.
All EU exporters/shippers or EU importers/consignees must have their EORI number readily available and communicated to FedEx prior to shipping. Customers are also encouraged to document their EU customers' EORI for all transactions to, from and within EU member states.Shippers to the EU are also advised to quote the recipients and/or importer’s EORI number on the shipment documentation. EU exporters are requested to quote their EORI on the shipment documentation.
For more details on EORI can be found in the EU EORI guidelines or on the EU Commission’s website. - Declaration Tip When Shipping to Korea
-
When sending goods to Korea, it is important that shippers declare the value of their shipment accurately based on fact. If there is a discrepancy between the declared value and the actual market price, shipments may be delayed by Korea Customs.
According to Korea Customs, there are two typical types of value discrepancy:
I. Undervalued shipment on purpose
Some shippers undervalue their shipments when making a declaration in order to avoid duty and tax. It should be noted that if a shipment of this nature is found by Korea Customs, there will be a thorough investigation and delays.
II. No commercial value due to shipment nature
Even if the shipment has no commercial value due to its nature (e.g. sample product, used goods, replacement due to claim, goods returned for repair), the shipper must declare the shipment value based on the actual market price. If Korea Customs suspects that the declaration value is wrong, they will investigate the shipment and apply the actual market price based on online information from Google, Amazon, etc.
In the case of goods being returned after repair, in order to avoid Customs delays, shippers should prepare the AWB/Invoice as follows:
1. AWB
(1) Commodity Description
Product Name (No Commercial Value)
(2) Shipment Value
Total value (Market value of product + Repair cost)
2. Invoice
Item 1: Product Name (No Commercial Value) = xxx USD
Item 2: Cost of repair = xxx USD
To avoid customs delays, shippers should therefore declare the value of their shipments accurately based on fact. Even if you consider that your shipment has no commercial value, you should provide the actual market price to facilitate smooth declaration.
For more detailed information about Customs Declaration, please contact your FedEx representative or local FedEx Customer Service. - FDA Amends Regulations for Medical Device Registration And Listing Requirements
-
On October 1, 2012 the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) changed the requirements for the registration of medical device establishments and listing of devices. The FDA now requires electronic submission of information for the registration of foreign and domestic establishments and the listing of devices unless the FDA grants a waiver and the inclusion of additional information identifying certain parties involved in the importation of the foreign establishment’s devices into the U.S.
Establishments involved in the production and distribution of medical devices intended for commercial distribution in the United States are required to register annually with the FDA. Most establishments that are required to register are also required to list the devices and the activities performed on those devices at that establishment. The FDA’s Unified Registration and Listing System (FURLS) is the internet-based system used to electronically receive this data.
Following are the key changes:- Electronic Submission: Domestic and foreign medical device establishments must submit registration and listing information electronically to the FDA through the FDA Unified Registration and Listing System (FURLS).
- Additional Information: Domestic and foreign medical device establishments must provide email addresses for the official correspondent and owner-operator of the establishment and the universal resource locator (URL) of the establishment’s website.
- Updates/Changes to Registration Information: Medical device establishments are required to update registration information within 30 days of registration.
- Information from Foreign Establishments: Foreign medical device establishments whose medical devices are imported or offered for import to the U.S. must identify all importers known to them and provide the name of each person who imports or offers to import their device into the U.S.
- Elimination of Exemptions:
- Contract Manufacturers and Contract Sterilizers are required to register their establishments and list their devices.
- Foreign establishments with devices that enter a foreign trade zone (FTZ) and re-export from the FTZ without entering the U.S. commerce are required to register and list their devices.
- Foreign establishments importing devices under the import for export (IFE) provision are required to register and list their devices.
U.S. and Foreign Medical Device establishments should be aware of this FDA regulatory change and the importance of maintaining accurate information with FDA/FURLS. If the device establishment owner does not already have an account with the FDA, they must establish one.
Failure to keep information updated and accurate may lead to import clearance delays for medical devices.
For more information on the FDA’s overview of device regulation please click HERE. Frequently asked questions about the new device registration and listing requirements can be found by clicking HERE.
Customers shipping medical devices may also like to contact their local service agent or a FedEx representative to discuss how these FDA amendments may affect their exports. - Electronic Submission: Domestic and foreign medical device establishments must submit registration and listing information electronically to the FDA through the FDA Unified Registration and Listing System (FURLS).
- Tips on Shipment Documentation Preparation and Import/Export Customs Declaration
-
China airport securities and customs authorities have tightened security inspections and checking of customs declarations for import and export shipments.
Please note the following tips to ensure smooth customs clearance and on-time shipment delivery:- Comply with the regulations and procedures set out by the authorities;
- Prepare your shipment and documentation in advance, making sure all the information provided is accurate and valid;
- Ensure that the details on your shipping documents match the items in your shipment.
* Fill in all the necessary information – for example:
- full and proper name of the commodities or items
- accurate descriptions of the commodities or items
- piece quantity, price, currency, weight, HS code, and payment settlement information about your shipments
- contact details such as the mobile phone number of the shipper or recipient - Contact our Customer Service Team in advance if you have any special requirements regarding declaration for your low-value shipments.
*Failure to do so will result in shipments being caged by the China Customs and Aviation security authority. The shipper will bear legal responsibility for any inaccurately declared items.
Safety is our highest priority. Undeclared or mis-declared dangerous goods (DG) represent a danger to our customers and employees. Undeclared or mis-declared DG shipments will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken.
We thank you in advance for complying with the necessary requirements before sending your shipments. - Increase of Informal Entry Limits for Shipments imported into the U.S.
-
The U.S. Customs Border and Protection (CBP) has announced an increase in the value threshold for informal entry from US$2,000 to US$2,500. This final rule was published in the Federal Register on December 6, 2012, with an effective date of January 7, 2013.
Customers will no longer be required to have a surety bond on merchandise under US$2,500 and there will no longer be a minimum Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) of US$25. Customers are advised, however, to have the shipment value clearly stated on the air waybill and commercial invoice in order to facilitate clearance under the new arrangement.
CBP also proposed to remove the language requiring formal entry for certain articles that were formerly subject to absolute quotas under the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing. This is because CBP no longer requires formal entries for these articles.
With this new rule, you can now expect smoother and faster customs clearance for your shipments to U.S. For details of this final rule, please refer to the Federal Register published on December 6, 2012.
- New Requirements for Lithium Battery Shipments
-
FedEx takes the safe transport of all shipments very seriously and strictly adheres to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations. We want to make you aware of the new lithium battery shipments requirements set forth by the 2013 IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations which has come into effect on January 1, 2013.
Key highlights of the new requirements are as follows.
Lithium Ion Batteries Section IA (UN3480, P.I. 965):- Shipper’s Declaration must contain net weight of lithium batteries in the shipment
- UN Specification packaging, Packing Group II standards, is required
- Shipment must include Class 9 label
- DG surcharge applies
Lithium Ion Batteries Section IB (UN3480, P.I. 965):
- Shipper’s Declaration and package must contain gross weight of lithium batteries in the shipment
- Inner packaging and strong outer packaging must be used
- Shipment must include Class 9 label and IATA lithium battery label
- DG surcharge applies
Lithium Ion Batteries Section II (UN3480, P.I. 965):
- No Shipper’s Declaration required
- Inner packaging and strong outer packaging must be used
- Shipment must include IATA lithium battery label
- The statement of “Lithium ion battery in compliance with Section II of PI965” must be indicated on the air waybill, when an air waybill is used.
- No DG surcharge
Lithium metal batteries Section IA (UN3090, P.I. 968):
- Shipper’s Declaration must contain net weight of lithium batteries in the shipment
- UN Specification packaging, Packing Group II standards, is required
- Shipment must include Class 9 label
- ICAO label is required
- DG surcharge applies
- Shipper must be on Section I (IA/IB) preapproved list
Lithium metal batteries Section IB (UN3090, P.I. 968):
- Shipper’s Declaration and package must contain gross weight of lithium batteries in the shipment
- Shipment must include Class 9 label and IATA lithium battery label
- Inner packaging and strong outer packaging must be used
- ICAO label is required
- DG surcharge applies
- Shipper must be on Section I (IA/IB) preapproved list
Lithium metal batteries Section II (UN3090, P.I. 968):
- No Shipper’s Declaration required
- Inner packaging and strong outer packaging must be used
- Shipment must include IATA lithium battery label and FedEx Section II label
- The statement of “Lithium metal battery in compliance with Section II of PI968” must be indicated on the air waybill, when an air waybill is used.
- No DG surcharge
- Shipper must be on Section II preapproved list
Please note that the weight limit for Lithium batteries packaged with equipment Section II and contained in equipment Section II has been limited to 5kg/package.
Lithium ion and lithium metal batteries shipped under Section I are fully regulated dangerous goods which must be correctly identified, classified, packaged, marked and labeled. A Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods must also be completed and signed by a trained DG shipper.
FedEx will not accept shipments that do not comply with the new requirements and shipments of any recalled, damaged, waste or defective lithium batteries, including any electronic product with such lithium batteries, such as laptop computers.
To view the full requirements, please click here to view the Lithium Battery Flow Chart or here for the IATA Lithium Battery Guidance Document [in English only].
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your FedEx Sales Representative or your local FedEx Customer Service team. - Launch of Shipment Declaration System by China Customs
-
The General Administration of Customs in China recently launched a new Shipment Declaration System.
Effective August 8, 2012, the Declaration Elements or the description of the goods, need to be clearly defined for each commodity that is imported or exported as a formal entry shipment. Failure to meet this requirement may result in customs delays.
For more details, please visit hscode.net. Please note that the Data Elements requirements vary according to the commodity being shipped.
We look forward to being of service to you again soon. - Customs Department of Thailand Tightens Regulations on Inbound Food and Drug Related Shipments
-
The Customs Department of Thailand has imposed stringent measures on food and drug related shipments imported into Thailand.
All food and drug related shipments imported into Thailand, including, but not limited to, medicine, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, food, drinks, supplementary products, vitamins, and cosmetics, must be accompanied by the appropriate license regardless of value and weight.
Non-compliant shipments may risk being destroyed or returned to the sender within 5 business days unless permits and supporting documents are provided to fulfill Food and Drug Association’s (FDA) requirements.
FedEx therefore recommends that shippers take note of the following Customs requirements:Product Types
Customs Requirements
Personal / Commercial Use
Medicine & Pharmaceuticals
Consignee is required to have an Import license or doctor’s prescription with specific patient information prior to shipment arrival
Supplements & Vitamins
Consignee is required to have an Import license or consignee certified letter with statement “Not for sale and the purpose of import” prior to shipment arrival
Medical Equipment
Consignee is required to have an Import license or consignee certified letter with statement “Not for sale” and doctor’s prescription with specific patient information prior to shipment arrival
Food
Consignee is required to have an Import license or consignee certified letter with statement “Not for sale and the purpose of import” prior to shipment arrival
Cosmetics
Consignee is required to have an Import license or consignee certified letter with statement “Not for sale and the purpose of import” prior to shipment arrival
Drugs
Only imported by FDA
Dangerous Goods
Only imported by FDA
Active Objects (Psychotropic Substances)
Only imported by FDA
To avoid potential risks and to ensure your shipments can be delivered in a timely manner, the following documents are required:
- Statement of import purpose (original copy)
- Import license/purchase order (issued by Food and Drugs Association of Thailand)
- Authorization document allowing FedEx to process the shipment through the Food and Drugs Association of Thailand on behalf of the importer
- Power of attorney statement
- Company Registration from Ministry of Commerce
- Copy of Identity Document of all authorized personnel according to the Company Registration from Ministry of Commerce
- Copy of Identity Document of two witnesses
For further enquiries, please contact our Customer Service team at 0800 733 339.
- U.S. Customs May Now Share IPR Information with Rights Holders to Detect Counterfeiting
-
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published an interim rule on April 24, 2012 which allows disclosure of alleged counterfeit Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) information to an actual rights holder in order to determine if the mark is valid or counterfeit.
Under the new provisions, which became effective on the date of publication, CBP may provide information to valid rights holders in the form of photographs or a sample of the goods in question, as well as information appearing on the packaging.
The importer will have seven days to submit information demonstrating the merchandise is not counterfeit; failing such proof, CBP will seize the merchandise.
Under the new provisions:- A “counterfeit mark” is defined as an unauthorized mark that is identical or indistinguishable from a mark registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
- CBP may detain alleged counterfeit merchandise up to 30 days.
- The importer will be advised with 5 days of detention.
- The importer will have 7 days from notice of detention to provide information establishing that the mark in question is not counterfeit.
- CBP may disclose information about the shipment and alleged counterfeit mark to the rights holder at any time following examination of the merchandise.
- The rights holder may be required to provide a surety bond to ensure return of the item(s) to CBP.
- Merchandise found to be counterfeit will be seized and forfeited by CBP.
If you wish to learn more about this new provision, please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website by clicking HERE
- China Customs Tighten Tax Based Inspections at Guangzhou Airport
-
Guangzhou customs has recently increased its tax related inspections for shipments into southern China via Guangzhou airport. In order to ensure smooth clearance and on-time delivery of your shipments, please note the following:
Customs Valuation: The customs valuation of imported goods must include the value of the goods, cost of transport, charges associated with transport of the goods and the cost of insurance incurred before unloading of the goods at the point of entry to the territory of the People’s Republic of China.
Clearance Documents: The description of the declared value must be based on the customs valuation and this must be clearly defined in the shipping documentation.
These requirements for customs valuation are based on the ‘Customs Law of the People’s Republic of China’ and ‘Regulations of the People’s Republic of China on Import and Export Duties’. Please click on the links below for further details:
http://english.customs.gov.cn/publish/portal191/tab3972/module21538/info69439.html
http://english.customs.gov.cn/publish/portal191/tab3972/module21538/info69437.html - Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Shipment Restrictions Into The EU
-
We would like to alert you of certain restrictions when sending a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipment to an EU country.
DDP refers to shipments where the shipper is obligated to deliver the goods to their destination already cleared for importation. The shipper bears all risks and costs, including transportation charges, duties and taxes and other charges payable upon export and import of the goods.
DDP shipments require that customs clearance is carried out by the shipper. However, it is not always legally possible for the shipper to arrange customs clearance in EU countries. It is also important to note that customs requirements for DDP imports are not the same in all EU countries.
Please therefore note the following in relation to DDP shipments:- Shipper needs to be Importer of Record (IOR)
The Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Sweden require that the IOR must be the shipper in the origin country.
- Indicate the destination city next to the DDP incoterm
Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Latvia, Poland and Romania specifically require the destination city to be indicated next to the DDP Incoterm, e.g. “DDP, Berlin”.
- Indicate freight cost and duties & taxes on the Commercial Invoice
Austria, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Latvia, Malta and the Netherlands require the freight cost and duties & taxes charges to be mentioned separately on the commercial invoice.
If a DDP shipment is non-compliant, customs may disregard the fact that the shipment is DDP. Depending on customs’ decision, this may result in different delivery conditions.
For further information about DDP shipments and a copy of Incoterms® 2010 provided by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), please log on to http://www.iccwbo.org/incoterms/.
It is recommended that before you send DDP shipments to EU countries, you verify the local customs requirements of the specific EU destination country.
Specific EU country requirements for DDP shipmentsCountry
Shipper is IOR
Indicate Name of Destination Next to the DDP Incoterm
Indicate Freight Cost on Commercial Invoice
Remarks
Austria
X
X
Belgium
DDP is not in the clearance system. CIF needs to be applied
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
X
Germany
X
X
Denmark
X
Estonia
Broker to be appointed
Spain
X
Finland
France
X
Greece
Only for exceptional cases where recipient accepts IOR status
Hungary
Recipient needs to give POA and act as IOR
Ireland
Italy
Lithuania
DDP not accepted. Recipient or broker needs to pay duties and taxes.
Luxembourg
X
Latvia
X
X
Malta
X
Netherlands
X
X
Poland
X
Romania
X
Sweden
X
Slovak Republic
Recipient needs to give POA and act as IOR
Slovenia
DDP not accepted. Recipient needs to pay duties and taxes
United Kingdom
If no freight cost is shown on the Commercial Invoice, CIF will be applied.
Switzerland
Norway
Notes
* IOR refers to Importer of Record
** CIF refers to Cost of Insurance and Freight
*** POA refers to Power of Attorney - The 2012 Australian Customs Tariff Act Amendment
-
On 1 January 2012, the Customs Harmonized System (HS) will be amended. In response to the HS 2012 amendments, the Australian Customs Tariff Act has been updated to mirror the changes in HS 2012.
The amended Australian Customs Tariff Act contains approximately 800 amendments and it is recommended that customers also update their internal system to reflect the change in the HS codes and facilitate smooth clearance of commodities.
While the volume of amendments is substantial, there should be no change in the amount of duty exporters and importers are currently paying. The clearance of imported and exported goods is not impacted by the amended Customs Tariff Act.
For more information on the amended 2012 Australian Customs Tariff Act, please visit the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service website www.customs.gov.au or call 1300 363 263.
Customers may also like to contact their local service agent or a FedEx representative to discuss how the amended tariff classification may influence their existing tariff data categorization. - New Regulation of Medical Devices Imports into Singapore
-
With effect from January 1, 2012, the Medical Device Branch of the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) will implement TradeNet controls on imports of Class A and B medical devices into Singapore.
This means that all medical device classes imported to Singapore will now be subject to the TradeNet system managed by Singapore Customs and other Singapore government agencies including the HSA.
To avoid any customs clearance delays, shippers must comply with the requirements and procedures in TradeNet to facilitate the import permit application for these medical devices.
In addition, please provide the following information accurately in your commercial invoice for TradeNet declaration:
a) Serial number
b) Complete description
c) HS Code
d) Product Code
e) Import licence number
f) Importer licence number
g) Quantity
Should you have any further enquiries, please visit the HSA website, email hsa_mdb_tradenet@hsa.gov.sg or call 65-62130838.
Alternatively, please contact our Customer Services Team.
- Increase in New Zealand Customs Service Transaction Fees and Ministry for Primary Industries Biosecurity Levy
-
The New Zealand Customs Service and the Ministry for Primary Industries have increased their transaction fees and biosecurity levy rates to support the shared cost of implementing Tranche 1 of the Joint Border Management System (JBMS). Tranche 1 is the first phase of the JBMS program which includes the setting up of the Trade Single Window & introducing new sophisticated risk assessment and targeting tools.
JBMS is a joint initiative by New Zealand Customs and the Ministry for Primary Industries to modernize and integrate New Zealand’s border clearance processes. JBMS will enable the two agencies to share processes, data and technology and this will lead to more effective, efficient and consistent processing of people, goods and craft.
Effective August 1, 2013, new Customs transaction fees and MPI biosecurity levy rate including Tranche 1 costs are as follows:
Import Entry Charges
Current Fee (incl GST)
New Fee
(incl GST)Increase
Import Entry Transaction Fee
$25.30
$29.26
$3.96
Biosecurity Entry Levy
$12.77
$17.63
$4.86
Total Import Entry Transaction Fee (IETF)
$38.07
$46.89
$8.82
Export Entry Charges
Current Fee (incl GST)
New Fee
(incl GST)Increase
Export Entry Transaction Fee
$14.56
$17.94
$3.38
All figures are in New Zealand dollars and GST-inclusive unless otherwise stated.
Full information on the increased fees and charges can be found on the New Zealand Customs Service and Ministry for Primary Industries websites respectively:• http://www.customs.govt.nz/features/bordersector/jbms/Pages/default.aspx
