Customs and clearance

Customs processes can vary greatly depending on the country you trade with. This makes it essential to be well-informed about each country’s requirements and the specific procedures needed for smooth clearance of your goods.

Verhoek Europe has the expertise to guide you through this complex process. Our experienced customs experts not only help you understand customs rules, but also navigate through the various customs formalities applicable to your specific trade transactions. Whether you are dealing with the European Union, the UK, Norway, Switzerland or other countries, we will make sure you have the right documents and meet the specific requirements for each country. Contact us for more information or support.

What do you need to know?

In international transport, customs plays a crucial role. Customs ensures that imports and exports comply with the laws and regulations of the country concerned. Customs clearance is an essential part of this process. Customs clearance refers to the process by which goods are officially cleared by customs for import or export. This includes filing the required documents, paying any import duties and taxes and complying with specific regulations. After successful clearance, customs releases the goods, after which they can be transported to their final destination.

Compliance with customs regulations is of great importance, as it prevents companies from facing fines or delays in the transport process. By following proper customs procedures, trade runs more smoothly and unforeseen costs are avoided.

Deferment account for United Kingdom (UK)

If you do business with the UK, there is the option of applying for a deferment account with HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs), the UK’s tax and customs authority. A deferment account with HMRC allows companies to pay import duties and VAT monthly instead of with each import, simplifying the payment process. Companies that import regularly and meet HMRC’s requirements are eligible. For more information, visit HMRC’s official website.

Incoterms and HS codes; What does it mean?

Incoterms Incoterms are globally recognised standards that clearly define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in the international trade process. They define who is responsible for transport, insurance and customs formalities, and who bears what costs and risks. This ensures clarity, prevents misunderstandings and makes the process more efficient. Verhoek Europe offers the Incoterms DAP (Delivered at Place) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). With DAP, the seller arranges the transport to the final destination, but the buyer is responsible for customs clearance and paying import duties and taxes. Under DDP, the seller bears full responsibility for transport, customs clearance and payment of all import duties and taxes to the final destination. For all Incoterms except DDP, the consignee is responsible for import. When Verhoek Europe handles customs clearance, the consignor must complete the correct documents of its customer and provide them in a timely manner to ensure smooth customs clearance. With DDP, the shipper must also have an indirect representative (broker) or organisation in the UK; without this, DDP cannot be chosen. HS codes HS codes, or Harmonised System Codes, are an internationally standardised system of codes used to classify goods in international trade. They allow customs to accurately calculate VAT and import duties and apply possible restrictions. If you do not include the HS code on the commercial invoice and other shipping documents, you or the recipient may pay the wrong taxes and delays may occur.

Direct representation

By using direct representation, Verhoek Europe can relieve you of the entire customs process. We act as your representative at customs, but always on behalf of your company. Because Verhoek Europe works together with reliable customs partners, we can respond quickly to regulations and take over administrative tasks.

This includes submitting customs declarations, arranging an efficient clearance process and ensuring that import duties and taxes are paid on time. With our direct representation and the support of our customs partners, we ensure that your goods pass through customs quickly and smoothly, without you having to worry about complex laws and regulations.

If you have any questions or need assistance? Do not hesitate to contact us.

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