Shipping perishable goods is a major challenge. P erishable goods such as fruits , vegetables, dairy products , sea food , and marine products are in high demand. Citrus Freight understands the importance of maintaining freshness for the perishable goods throughout the transit.
Perishable goods have a short shelf life, so you should carefully handle them to keep their quality intact. Factors such as temperature guidelines, a hygienic environment, varied regulations of the importing nations, and documentation can complicate customs clearance. If you fail to adhere, the port authorities can seize or halt your shipment. As a result, you might have to pay heavy fines and undergo penalties. Furthermore, the delayed process of customs clearance can disrupt the supply chain.
What are the guidelines for the customs clearance process?
Exporting perishable goods between foreign nations is not that simple. You need to have a clear understanding of the customs department rules to go ahead with your shipment.
In the customs clearance process, the key factors that need to be taken into account are as follows:
- Proper Documentation: Successful paperwork is required to clear the customs process. You need to submit crucial documents such as a commercial invoice , the , the label, health certificates , origin certificates , and the required permits. Though you can handle your cargo, you can hire a professional agent who can assist you with customs-related complications arising from paperwork errors or technicalities. The agents check that you have paid your applicable tax and duties along with the submitted documents.
- Compliance: There are some rules directed by the legislative bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for the proper handling, storage, and transportation of perishable goods. Importers and exporters must adhere to the specific regulations regarding quality, health, and food safety.Importers and exporters must adhere to the specific regulations regarding quality, health, and food safety. Both the exporting and importing countries must work together with government agencies to ensure a hassle-free customs clearance process.
- Temperature Logger: A bit of temperature fluctuation can affect the quality of perishable products. Perishable products are prone to short life spans, so they tend to deteriorate. The port authorities direct the exporters to opt for temperature-controlled devices to preserve the freshness and quality of the perishable goods throughout the transit. If, in any case, the exporters don’t comply with the instructions, strict actions will be imposed.
- Packaging and Labeling: Follow the best packaging process to maintain the integrity of perishable goods. Use insulated materials like boxes, coolers, or thermal bags to maintain a balanced temperature. You can also add gel packs or dry ice to stabilize it. The packaging must align with the international standards. It is advisable to specify the name of the particular product with labeling to avoid loss or misplacement of your cargo.
- Consistent Supply Chain: Supply chain logistics are the best means to transport your perishable goods globally. Cold chain transportation can prevent spoilage of all kinds of perishable commodities, such as fresh produce, meat, dairy, or frozen products. The reefer containers come with temperature control to deliver the goods in optimal condition. The port authorities provide storage facilities to protect your cargo in case it happens to be in danger.
The additional measures taken by the customs authorities are as follows:
- Comprehensive Training: Provide proper training to your staff to improve packaging methods, have a better understanding of the proper documentation, and employ the best practices to handle any kind of perishable product. These methods can successfully clear the perishable goods during the entry and exit of the port.
- Stay Updated With the Latest Customs Regulations: You must stay updated with the latest customs norms and policies in international trade. This step can help you conduct your export operations without any difficulty.
- Technology Infrastructure: Technology plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of your export operations. A smart tracking device can maintain a constant temperature level to preserve the pristine condition of your sensitive goods. During the customs clearance process, employing digital documentation can streamline the shipping process.
Conclusion
The blog provides a complete overview for customs clearance, covering every essential step—from the essential shipping documents to managing fee payments and understanding customs policies and customs house agents. The effective supply chain logistics expertise in perishable exports can help the business streamline their customs clearance process. Moreover, temperature tracking devices keep you updated on the movement of your shipping container throughout transit.
At Citrus Freight , we understand the concerns for your perishable goods clearance during the customs process. We offer reliable customs house agents and optimized supply chain logistics to ensure that your shipment arrives at the desired destination safely.