Due to the limited knowledge about the services and institutions that operate internally in trade, the import and export procedure is affected by various uncontrollable factors that could be avoided. This is why it is necessary to have information about the functionality of the Customs service and customs agents, which legally and safely handle each stage of this process.
What is Customs and What is its Role?
The customs agent is a professional who has a license that allows him to provide services as a manager in the merchandise clearance process, where the contracting of his services is mandatory if customs imports exceed the total amount of $1,000 dollars and if exports are greater than $2,000 dollars. This is why you must take into account all import or export fees.
The most important tasks include:
- Monitoring and controlling the flow of goods.
- Inspecting border traffic.
- Determining and collecting taxes.
- Facilitating international traffic.
What is a Customs Agents? What Functions Does It Perform?
A Customs agents is a professional with a license that allows them to provide services as a manager in the customs clearance process. The hiring of their services is mandatory when imports exceed $1,000 USD or when exports exceed $2,000 USD.
Key functions include:
- Advising clients on legislation and permits.
- Filing declarations with Customs.
- Managing imported and/or exported goods.
- Coordinating logistics and transportation.
- Ensuring tax payments.
- Verifying seals on merchandise.
What Permits or Documents Are Needed?
To carry out this process legally and with proper documentation, it is necessary to meet the requirements and demands set by the authorities. Below are the requirements for complying with the regulations.
For exports, it is necessary to evaluate the production and financial capacity regarding the investment to be made. It is essential that both legal entities or individuals have registered their business with the Internal Revenue Service (SII). Additionally, the Customs Code must be adhered to, which details the valuation information for goods. Finally, obtaining a tariff code from the Customs Service and obtaining the Certificate of Origin is required.
To import goods, documents must be submitted depending on the value of the merchandise. For non-commercial goods, a Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Power of Attorney from the owner, and Validity Certificates are required.
If the merchandise exceeds $1,000 USD, the importer must have a customs broker and submit mandatory documents such as the original Bill of Lading, original Commercial Invoice, a sworn statement from the importer, and an established mandate. Additionally, there are certain documents that may be required for specific operations, including the Certificate of Origin, Packing List, Insurance Certificate, Expense Note, and Permits.
Tips to Avoid Penalties
- Keep your documentation up-to-date with accurate and truthful information.
- Stay informed about the regulations and permitted items.
- Hire a customs agent to facilitate the process.
Why Should You Choose a Customs Broker from Our Pool of Providers?
At ComexPoint, you receive all this information and support from our international trade executives, experienced in processing and documentation required by the National Customs Service. Moreover, the customs agencies available on our platform have been verified and selected to provide you with quality service.
Get a quote with us here! ComexPoint online quotation
