Misdeclarations on export entries attract hefty fines

THERE is an increasing number of customs examinations for exports, and the authorities are taking a harsh line towards misdeclarations on export entries, according to Safcor Panalpina’s internal auditor, Jeff Epstein.
“All products that are exported must be correctly declared in terms of the harmonised customs tariff,” he told FTW, “and it is the responsibility of the exporter to provide sufficient information for this to be done correctly.”
And it’s not a peanuts fine if you transgress these requirements, Epstein added.
“The penalty for incorrect declarations is 10% of the value of the relevant items and that can be a considerable sum for high-value, low-volume products.”
Epstein added that exporters should also note that Safcor Panalpina’s policy is that empty containers will only be placed for packing and despatch once customs’ requirements have been fully complied with.
“This because it’s an area of some considerable worry, with the penalties at the levels they are,” he said.