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Customs Clearance Fees: Who Pays and How Much?

Understanding Customs Clearance

Customs clearance is an essential aspect of international freight shipping. It involves the process of checking and verifying goods as they enter or leave a country, ensuring compliance with regulations and determining any applicable duties and taxes.

Duties and Taxes

Customs duties and taxes vary depending on the country, the type of goods being imported or exported, and their stated value. Importers are typically responsible for paying these charges, which can include:

• Ad valorem duties: Charged as a percentage of the value of the goods
• Specific duties: Charged as a fixed amount per unit or quantity
• Value-added tax (VAT): Charged as a percentage of the total value of the goods, including duties

Who Pays Customs Clearance Fees?

In most cases, the importer or the shipper acting on their behalf is responsible for paying customs clearance fees. However, there may be exceptions based on the terms of the sales agreement. It is important to clarify who is responsible for these charges before initiating a shipment.

Air and Ground Freight

The customs clearance process differs slightly for air and ground freight. For air freight, the airline or its designated clearing agent typically handles the clearance, while for ground freight, the trucking company or its agent may be responsible.

US Customs Guide

For shipments entering the United States, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulates the clearance process. Importers must comply with 19 USC 58c, 19 CFR 2422, and applicable Federal Register notices to ensure smooth clearance of their goods and avoid penalties or delays.

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