the importers checklist
Prior to Shipment
• Fax request for current status.
• Review shipping & payment terms.
• Confirm that Customs Broker has been selected.
• Does Broker have Purchaser’s Power of Attorney?
• Does Purchaser have Customs Bond (Either Single or Continuous)?
• Confirm that supplier will include any Assists in shipment value?
• Confirm that country of origin product marking instructions are being followed.
• Confirm that supplier will use purchaser supplied US Customs Harmonized Number in shipping description.
• Specify to supplier transportation method and routing
• Confirm consignee, notify party, port, & markings and that buyer will receive copy of shipping papers
• Specify forwarder & broker if not included in P. O.
• Confirm that supplier or forwarder has routing.
• Confirm that transportation has been arranged.
• Confirm that freight methods and rates used in original landed cost estimates are being used.
• Confirm that some form of proof of origin will be sent to purchaser (No longer required for Customs Clearance, but may be needed for Customs’ Audit)
• Is an inspection certificate or other certification required & if so, is it complete.
• Confirm special packaging arrangements.
• Confirm hazardous cargo compliance.
• Consider strikes or any other significant International events that may cause delay.
• Confirm that procedure for transportation insurance coverage is being followed.
After Shipment Leaves Supplier
• Confirm that freight forwarder has freight and that booking was made per routing instructions.
• Confirm shipment is on intended vessel/flight.
• Determine if pre-clear through US Customs is possible.
• Check Documents received to insure correct consignee, notify party, destination and markings.
• Confirm forwarder has sent copies of documents to purchaser & broker
• Confirm broker is aware of shipment, has all necessary documents, and has been given inland shipping instructions.
• Prepare info for special clearances such as FDA if required.
• Confirm arrival with broker.
• Confirm Custom clearance with broker
• Obtain pro number, trailer number, name & phone number of inland carrier.
• Confirm inland delivery with inland carrier
4 essential items for Clearing Customs, Fast!
- «The Commercial Invoice contains a vast amount of detailed information about your product, its manufacturer, origin, destination, HTS code and more. This information is crucial for a customs broker clearing your freight. Download Invoice»
- «This is the "boarding pass" from the shipping line or airline that your freight is on board their vessel or airplane. The "Arrival Notice" notifies Quicksilver that your freight has arraived at a ocean port or airport, and it's ready to clear. »
- «Quicksilver needs power of attorney over your shipment to classify and clear your goods through customs We also need this privilege to pay duty on your behalf. Complete the form and fax it to us. Download POA»
- «Quicksilver can find and classify the harmonized tariff code for you, but your process can move quicker if you have this information available on your commercial invoice or enter it on your quote inquiry. Get HTS Code»