Start with the goods and the planned route. Record each item’s description, origin, quantity and value, and confirm who will act as importer. Ask your customs agent to check the tariff classification (HS code), the registration needed to import, and any permits or certificates that apply to the goods. Requirements can vary by product and route, so check them before the supplier dispatches the shipment.
Agree on the paperwork with the supplier before shipping. A typical shipment file includes the commercial invoice, packing list, transport document and proof of origin where applicable. Check that descriptions, quantities, values, currency and consignee details match across the documents. Arrange any required product certificates in time for dispatch.
Estimate the cost of getting the goods into stock. Alongside the purchase price, allow for freight, insurance, applicable duties and import VAT, clearance, handling and possible storage. Plan when those payments will fall due. If VAT may be recoverable, confirm the treatment for your transaction and distinguish the cash you pay at import from the final cost to the business.
After clearance, reconcile the customs declaration and payments with the supplier invoice, customs agent’s statement and goods received. Keep the supporting documents and explain differences between estimated and actual costs. This gives you a firmer basis for pricing the goods and planning your next shipment.
Practical considerations
- Check product classification, permits and certificates before dispatch.
- Agree on the documents with your supplier and cross-check their details.
- Estimate the full landed cost and the cash needed to pay for the shipment.
- Keep the shipment file and reconcile the estimate with actual payments.
Further reading
- Palestinian Trade Portal: preparing to import
- Palestinian Trade Portal: clearance and shipment documents