Why you should have a customs agent

Since the evolution of computers and the internet, arranging customs for imports and exports has changed from being done on paper, handwritten or typed with a typewriter. They took a great deal of time for each one and had to be checked thoroughly to make sure the right information was on there. Now that customs are done online through software, it is much quicker but there are always changes and updates happening to customs procedures that can be difficult to keep track of. It’s why we advocate having a customs agent so you can have the peace of mind that your customs paperwork is all done, and you don’t have to worry about it. So, what exactly are the benefits of having your own customs agent? It's cost effective Having a customs agent on hand for your import and export needs can be extremely cost effective in the long run. Paying a customs agent means you don’t have to pay for expensive customs software, or the customs badges. These can be very costly and if you’re not doing a lot of customs entries, it can be an outlay that isn’t worth it. With a customs agent using their own software and badge, you know that there are people who can help you when needed. Paying for customs when needed will be much better for your business in the long run. Documents will be checked When it comes to doing customs, there can be a lot of paperwork that needs to be checked or filled in to ensure that the right information is input into the system and that you’re paying the correct amounts. Customs agents can help you understand the paperwork or system that you need including things like REX documents and preferential statements for EU origin goods. There is a lot to remember so having a customs agent to do it all for you and keep you updated is vital when you have customs entries to complete for various countries that all have different requirements or different certifications needed. A customs agent that is an expert in these matters can really benefit your business. You have the expertise and knowledge of someone who does this day in, day out and it is one less thing for you to worry about. VAT/Duties are correctly calculated When doing customs, it can be difficult to guess what you’ll be paying in terms of VAT and duty taxes. The systems that HMRC use can work it out automatically, but that’s based on the correct information being used. Having someone do it for you, you’ll know it’s done correctly, and the right amounts will be invoiced to you to pay. This helps you keep updated on the VAT you can reclaim with your C79, and what duties you’re paying based on the commodity codes that are provided. Being able to understand the VAT and duty amounts can also help you figure out how much you can import in the future and what the rates might be for other shipments. When it comes to paying for import VAT, we use the postponed VAT accounting system. This is still relatively new so if you wish to discuss more about this and how it works, please call us. Commodity code advice With the number of changes for customs, with Brexit, COVID and then the customs system being updated, commodity codes have been updated over the last few years. It can be confusing trying to figure out exactly which commodity code is needed for what product – especially as HMRC often have multiple codes depending on what the products is made from or used for. At Metoni, we keep track of the commodity codes we use regularly and when we’re arranging customs entries, we research carefully which code is going to be the best for your product. It’s important to get it right so you are paying the right VAT and duty rates. If you import the same products regularly, we’ll also be able to make a note of what codes we’ve used so we can get the paperwork filled in quicker and your entries will get done with no issues. We’ll work together to make sure you agree with the commodity codes we use and if anything changes, we will update you so you can agree. At Metoni, we’re available by phone and email if you have any queries or questions and we’ll be able to discuss the best way of working for you. We’re on hand to help you with all your customs needs and we’re a great asset for importers to have on hand. Give us a call today to talk about how we can help you with your customs entries.

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