WHILE THE Customs Act demands that importers should be able to prove that declarations made on bills of entry are correct, this is often not that easy.
Descriptions on suppliers' invoices are often inadequate and physical examinations of cargo are not only time-consuming but also expensive.
But, according to Safcorapport, one of the ways of verifying data is by reference to catalogues, leaflets or similar material produced by the manufacturer.
"Such publications are referred to in the legislation as 'literature' and a main reason for producing this for customs is to avoid unnecessary stops and examinations of shipments."
Unfortunately the authorities sometimes retain this material, or the literature becomes outdated as products are upgraded. Also, all an importer's shipments are not necessarily checked by the same customs officer.
As a result some importers might get a number of requests for 'literature'.
But, if you want to minimise the cost of the importation process, grit your teeth and bear it.
While resolving customs queries can be time consuming, Safcorapport suggests that a company should buckle down and answer them adequately.
"Storage charges are applied to all cargo not cleared in good time irrespective of the reason for the delay.
"In order to avoid storage charges it is preferable
to have documents for seafreight clearances at least seven working days prior to the ship's expected arrival."
'Literature' helps avoid customs stops
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