Customs Clearance


Navigate complex customs clearance procedures with ease. Get in touch and let us streamline your international shipping process with Jenkar.

Expert Customs Import & Export Clearance Services

There are a lot of complexities that come with international shipping, but navigating the customs clearance process may be the most complex of them all. Understanding all of the documentation required, duties, fees and taxes and the rules and regulations of each country can be overwhelming. But that’s what we’re here for. We know the importance of having a trusted partner who understands the complexities of customs compliance and who will work with you to ensure everything is completed correctly and on time.

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The Customs Clearance Process

When shipping any form of goods internationally, the customs clearance process is essential to ensure border security and enforce global trade regulations. The customs clearance process can vary depending on the trade regulations of the origin and destination country and the type of goods being exported and imported. However, there are general custom clearance processes that shippers can expect when moving goods internationally:

  • Checking eligibility that your product is allowed to be imported and exported from both countries.
  • Preparing and submitting the correct customs documentation to the relevant customs authorities.
  • Paying the applicable duties, taxes or fees determined by the customs authorities. 
  • Obtaining import or export licences or permits if required. 

For some shippers, this process can be time consuming and complex to navigate. However, with the right resources and a trusted partner who understands the process, it can become much more manageable and seamless.

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Benefits Of Using Customs Clearance Services

Streamlined and Efficient

The customs clearance process becomes much more streamlined and less complex, ensuring shipments are processed efficiently and without errors.

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Clears Shipments Quickly

Companies providing custom clearance services often have established relationships with customs authorities and are familiar with the latest regulations, allowing them to provide a swift and smooth service.

Reduces Risks of Delays and Fines

Making mistakes on your customs documentation can be costly and lead to delays on your shipment. Working with a trusted customs clearance provider minimises the risk of these mistakes as they will thoroughly check everything is correct before the shipment is sent.

Expert Advice on Best Practices

Customs clearance providers are up to date and knowledgeable on all aspects of global trade regulations, allowing them to provide expert advice and valuable insights to improve customs processes and your overall supply chain efficiency.

Our team has delivered
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Over 20,000 customs entries

Our Customs Clearance Services

Documentation

We’ll work with you to prepare all of the necessary paperwork and ensure it’s correct before submission. Our aim is to ensure that your customs documents are accurately completed to prevent delays and costly mistakes.

Duties, Taxes & Fees

When goods are imported and exported across borders, duties, fees or taxes are likely needed to be paid before they can be delivered. We’ll help you understand what you’re paying, why you’re paying and how to pay them, providing complete clarity at every stage.

Import Clearance

If you’re importing goods from one country into the UK, you need to follow the regulations set by the UK Government. We’ll arrange customs clearance for you and work with HMRC to ensure you pay the correct import taxes.

Export Clearance

Exporting goods from the UK requires having an export licence and ensuring that your goods comply with the destination country’s regulations. We can help you navigate this process and expertly transport your goods across borders.

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Why Choose Jenkar?

We have a dedicated, in-house customs and documentation team who possess the knowledge to ensure all your shipments are processed smoothly and efficiently. They’re clued up on all aspects of international trade regulations and are committed to providing accurate documentation to avoid delays.

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Talk To The Experts

At Jenkar, we have direct access to various UK sea and air ports, including major transport hubs such as London, Dover, Liverpool and Southampton. Our strategic partnerships allow us to swiftly and seamlessly arrange export or import clearance for your goods to reliably deliver them to your destination of choice. For more information on our customs clearance processes, contact one of our expert team members and we’ll guide you through every step of the customs process.

Seamless Customs Clearance With Jenkar

Whether you’re transporting your cargo via sea, road or air, we can assist you with both the export and import clearances to make your shipping process as seamless and smooth as possible. Our dedicated customs team are always on hand to answer any questions and produce and authenticate all documentation required so you have one less thing to worry about. Contact a member of our team today to start seamlessly moving your cargo beyond borders.

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FAQs

What Is Customs Clearance?

Customs clearance is a necessary process that all goods must go through when leaving and entering a country. It is a crucial procedure in the exporting and importing of goods to protect a country’s security, health and economy. It requires submitting the required documentation to a country’s customs authorities containing information about the goods before they can pass the border.

How Long Does Customs Clearance Take?

On average, customs clearance is usually pretty quick and goods can be processed within 24-48 hours. However, these times can vary depending on several factors including:

  • Missing or incorrect documentation
  • Unpaid import duties, fees and taxes
  • Shipping restricted items 
  • Using the incorrect shipping labels or packaging
  • Detailed inspections of the goods by authorities

Working with a trusted and reliable shipping company can help avoid these delays as they will work with you to ensure everything is accounted for and correct.

What Happens After Customs Clearance Is Completed?

Once a shipment has been cleared by customs it will be released and transported to its final destination for delivery or collection. This only happens once all documentation has been processed and all feeds, duties and taxes have been paid.

What Documents Do I Need For Customs Clearance?

The documents that are required for customs clearance can vary depending on the origin and destination country and the method of transportation being used. The most common documents you will encounter when shipping goods internationally include:

 

  • Commercial invoice – A form providing details about the goods values, quantity and country of origin.
  • Bill of lading – An important document that acts as a receipt between the exporter and the carrier for the transportation of goods via sea.
  • Certificate of origin – A document that verifies the country of origin of the goods being imported.
  • Air waybill – A document that acts as a contract between a shipper and a carrier for the transportation of goods via air.
  • Export licence – A document issued by governments that allow registered companies or individuals to legally ship goods that are otherwise restricted.
  • Export declaration – A form that exporters must submit to customs at the port of export providing information on the goods being shipped.

We have been working with Jenkar over the past 4 years for our import and export requirements. Whether it has been a single pallet, multiple lorry loads or shipping containers, Jenkar has covered our needs. The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to customs and paperwork required.

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