Efficient shipping of your export products is absolutely critical if you are to be competitive. And to oversee the process, you must understand the basics of logistics, and export documentation.
Here are links to some critical shipping and logistics information:
ATA Carnets – A Carnet (pronounced kar-nay) is often referred to as a “passport for goods.” Essentially, it is a special customs document that permits the temporary tax-free and duty-free export and import of nonperishable goods for up to a year.
Export documents – Let’s face it, there’s a lot of paperwork associated with exporting. Whenever you sell, ship, or deliver products overseas, paperwork is required to document the process. And initially, this paperwork may seem overwhelming. For your convenience, we offer downloadable export documents forms and examples.
Free trade agreements – U.S. free trade agreements with other countries can lower your export costs and make you more competitive.
Freight forwarders – Freight forwarders are key members of your international team. If chosen carefully, a forwarder will help you manage your export shipments and make your business venture successful.
HS/ Schedule-B numbers – Anytime you ship goods overseas, you first need to determine their Harmonized Code. This code helps decide if your products are subject to U.S. export controls, and what import duties the destination country may charge.
Incoterms 2020 – International Commercial Terms are used to establish the shipping responsibilities of exporters and importers in contracts. They define the type of transportation, and the risks and costs of the two parties.
NAFTA/USMCA – The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement is a worthy replacement for the NAFTA Treaty. It updates the agreement to better protect intellectual property, digital trade, financial services, and the environment.
Pre-shipment inspection – A Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) may be required by your overseas customers to certify the quality, quantity, or value of the goods you are shipping. Following a PSI, you must furnish them with a Certificate of Inspection.
Regulations and compliance – Let’s be honest, there are a lot of bad actors in the world — countries, companies, and individuals. So, the US Government has created a series export controls that prohibit or limit export sales to them.
Wood packaging – If you ship your exports in wooden packaging be careful. Not all countries accept it.