Customs expertise helps shippers claim back duties

A thorough knowledge of customs duties can go a long way in helping exporters and importers claim back monies spent, according to Jeanique van der Mescht of Sasfin Commercial Solutions. While all goods imported are subject to the payment of import duties and VAT, there are exceptions to the rule. “One can claim back on duties paid on all goods imported for use in the manufacturing of a product that will be exported again,” she explained. “In order to make the drawback claim, you will need a permit, proof of export and import documents, and you must be able to show how the goods imported were used in the manufacturing process. And there is a time frame of two years to claim the duties back.” She said other instances where funds could be recovered were for goods imported for exportation to another market. “This is especially beneficial for importers into the African market for example who bring in product and then export it to another market in its exact format. You can claim back duties on condition that you have import and export documentation. The only thing to remember is that each time you make a claim of this nature you have to invite Customs to come and inspect the goods you are exporting.” Van der Mescht advised shippers to get expert help when dealing with many of these claims as they were quite technical and were often time-specific. “We have also recently seen claims being denied following the Customs modernisation programme as it no longer allows for vouchers of correction when claiming. Of course you can still pass a voucher of correction – but if you do so once the goods have left the country, you no longer qualify for the rebate claim,” she said. “It is therefore valuable to have a team on board who understand the procedure and have relationships in place with Customs to make the claims on your behalf. That also allows you to get on with your core business of manufacturing and exporting.” INSERT ‘The Customs modernisation programme no longer allows for vouchers of correction when claiming.’ CAPTION Jeanique van der Mescht … ‘technical claims demand specialist expertise.’