Customs processes are one of the most critical stages of international trade. Missing documents, changing regulations and long processing times can lead to serious delays and additional costs in logistics processes. Correct customs management increases the competitiveness of businesses in the international market and makes their commercial operations more efficient.
So, what are the most common difficulties encountered in customs procedures and how can these difficulties be overcome? Here is a detailed review:
1. Missing or Incorrect Documentation
Difficulty Encountered:
Customs procedures can be delayed due to incorrect or missing documents.
Missing documents such as invoices, transport documents, certificates of origin (ATR, EUR.1 etc.) and CE certificates can prevent the goods from passing through customs.
Missing or incorrect documents can cause additional customs costs.
Solution:
Using Electronic Document Management (E-Customs): Digital preparation and storage of documents speeds up the process.
Benefit from Customs Consultancy Services: You can prevent document deficiencies by working with expert customs consultants.
Using Digital Tracking Systems: Identify deficiencies in advance with automation systems that check the up-to-dateness of documents.
2. Changing Customs Legislation and Regulations
The Challenge:
International trade is subject to constantly changing legislation and tariffs.
Changes in customs agreements between countries can lead to additional taxes or quotas.
It can be difficult to adapt to the import and export policies of different countries.
Solution:
Following Current Legislation: Instantly adapt to changes by following official customs websites, chambers of commerce and consultancy firms.
Use Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Benefit from tax advantages when trading with countries with which Türkiye has FTAs.
Use Customs Software: Digital systems speed up the process by automatically adapting to changing legislation.
3. Customs Duties and Additional Costs
Difficulty Encountered:
Customs duties and additional costs applied by countries can be a significant burden for businesses.
Anti-dumping duties, additional import duties and logistics costs can negatively affect profit margins.
Solution:
Using Certificates of Origin Correctly: You can gain tax advantage in certain markets with documents such as ATR, EUR.1.
Determining Customs Tariff Codes (GTIP) Correctly: Incorrect tariff codes can lead to overpayment of taxes or penalties.
Using Alternative Logistics Models: You can optimize your total costs with low-cost logistics solutions (e.g. sea or rail transportation).
4. Delays in Customs Transactions
Difficulty Encountered:
Long bureaucratic processes can delay logistics operations.
Crowding at busy ports and border gates can extend delivery times.
Unexpected checks during customs inspections can lead to additional time losses.
Solution:
Using a Pre-Declaration System: You can speed up the process by declaring documents in advance with e-Customs systems.
Obtain Authorized Economic Operator Status (AEO): Companies with an AEO document can perform customs procedures faster.
Using Alternative Border Gates and Ports: You can reduce waiting times by determining alternative routes instead of busy points.
5. Lack of Transparency in Logistics Tracking and Customs Processes
The Challenge Encountered:
The lack of transparency in logistics and customs processes makes it difficult for businesses to plan.
Document deficiencies or incorrect declarations can lead to unforeseen penalties.
Solution:
Using Digital Logistics Tracking Systems: You can increase transparency by instantly tracking customs procedures and shipping processes.
Using Customs Consultancy Services: You can prevent possible disruptions by working with professional consultancy firms.
Optimizing Customs Inspection Processes: You can benefit from automatic reporting systems to ensure that documents are accurate and complete.
6. Products Detained and Rejected at Customs
Challenge:
Products that do not comply with customs rules may not be allowed to enter.
Incorrect labeling or missing certificates may cause goods to be sent back.
Restrictions and quotas imposed by countries on certain products may disrupt logistics processes.
Solution:
Research Country-Based Customs Rules in Advance: Be informed about customs prohibitions, quota limits and special permits.
Complete Required Certificates in Advance: Provide all required documents such as CE certificate, health certificates and safety reports.
Conduct Preliminary Customs Inspection: Check in advance whether products comply with import/export standards.
Conclusion
Difficulties encountered in customs processes can directly affect logistics operations due to factors such as missing documents, changing regulations, long processing times and additional costs. Digital solutions, up-to-date regulatory monitoring and correct document
