Customs clearance

When sending goods abroad, customs can cause delays. See what to expect when shipping internationally and how to reduce time at the border.

Basics to clear customs

Check shipping regulations

Variations in regulations mean that exporting can differ from country to country. Ensure that you are fully aware of licensing, special provisions and restricted and prohibited goods in the country you are shipping to.

Prepare documentation

Getting the required documents in advance is vital if you want to avoid hold-ups at the border. Be sure to include all necessary information on your commercial invoice, since this is how customs authorities will classify and process your shipment.

Duties & taxes

International shipments are often liable to import duties and taxes but that doesn’t mean you have to be caught out by them. Since these vary according to the destination and the shipment value, make sure you are fully aware of what you or the receiver will have to pay.

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Validation of address

Customs usually need to verify the origin and destination of your shipment. Our database automatically validates addresses, meaning you know in advance if it will be possible for your goods to reach their final destination.

Digital commercial invoice

A complete and comprehensive commercial invoice is vital if you want to pass through customs smoothly. Creating a digital commercial invoice on mySwift or downloading a template from our site will speed up the process.

Door-to-door tracking

Your shipment doesn’t disappear once it leaves the country so you should still be able to see where it is at all times. Track & Trace lets you locate your shipment worldwide and informs you of when we expect it to arrive at its destination.

Topics on export and import

Export control

Shipping to certain countries is affected by export controls based on the type of goods. Don't get caught out.

Customs clearance

Hold-ups at customs can cause delays to your shipment and cost you money. Use our local expertise to limit the risk.

Denied parties

We do not accept consignments to or from individuals or organisations listed as a denied party. Check to see who is a denied party before shipping.

Import services

Our import services take the hassle out of bringing shipments from abroad as an importer.

Global compliance

Learn what is required in terms of export controls, international sanctions or safety and security concerns before you ship.

International fuel surcharges

International freight is liable for fuel surcharges based on the origin and destination country of each shipment.

Incoterms

Incoterms are a globally recognised standard that let customs authorities identify the owner of a shipment at every moment of its journey.

Customs services

Take advantage of our local knowledge and up to the minute expertise you need, so your shipments never get unnecessarily delayed.