FOR THE past month Durban Customs has been getting tougher on import documentation which does not allow easy classification of goods under their respective tariff headings.
Draft bills of entry presented to the controller in Durban are being summarily rejected if they are accompanied by inadequately detailed invoices - or invoices which are not supported by adequate explanatory literature.
Customs has pointed out the cost and waste of time of detaining such shipments for examination. It is a counter-productive exercise, according to officials.
The hint to importers from forwarders Safcor, is to get your suppliers to provide a detailed invoice that clearly defines the nature and type of goods being imported. Also, don't expect Customs to do Chinese or Arabic translations - get invoices in English.
This will relieve you of an unbudgeted cost and a delay in the receipt of your goods if your consignment is easily classifiable under its harmonised tariff heading.
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