Type of Bill of Lading

In the previous discussion is discussed about the bill of lading terms ever in the post this time will be explained a bit about the kind of - kind of Bill of lading are.
Here is a type of B / L which is the document in the marine transportation:
1. One. Shipped Bill of Lading (pengertian Klik disini) Bill of Lading shipped (the sense Click here)
2. Received For Shipment Bill of Lading (pengertian Klik disini) Received For Shipment Bill of Lading (understanding Click here)
3. Through Bill of Lading
4.Combined Transport Bill of Lading
5. Intermodal Bill of Lading

that's some kind of B / L as for the function of B / L itself will be discussed at the next posting.

Content of Bill of Loading in Indonesia, Australia, Strait service

1. definition
whice explained the : carrier. shipper. container
2. contracting parties.
3.hague rules governing law and jurisdiction
4. sub - contractor , sub agents and agents
5. scope of carrieage and carrier's liberties
6. alternative discharge
7 mislaid goods
8. carrier responsiblity
9 container packed by mrchant.
10. container packed by carrier.
11. carriers container
12. specoal container
13. stowage , deck cargo, live animals
14. dangerous goods and contraband
15. valuable goods
16. general average, new jason clause
17. both to blame collision
18. marks, sweepings and separation
19. notification and delivery
20. expenses
21. freight and charges
22. lien
23. limitation of liablity
24. period of claims
25. " on board " endorsement
26. timber

Export import business without money

export - import business is not so difficult as people imagines, and actualy we can do it without big investment also.
1. how to do it
well, to do export - import business without investment of course need more work than the people who have the money but don't worry, event we have no money we can do it. to do it, you have to understand :
1. You have understood export-import procedure
2. You have to Understood about International Payment Term (Letter of Credite)
3. you have to choose what product do you want sell
4. find good supplier
5. find good Buyer
6. find Good shipping company to handle the shippment / Forwarding

that all 6 point you have to do if you want do export - import without money.
for further let visit the next tips...

Importation of Denatured Ethyl Alcohol & Methanol

Import of denatured ethyl alcohol (including methylated spirits) and methanol are subjected to the sampling requirement by Customs. The procedures for the sampling, storage and extraction of samples are as follows:


Application for Sampling, Storage and Extraction of Samples

Prior to importation, the importer must submit the Application for Sampling of Denatured Ethyl Alcohol and Methanol Form ( DOC 450kb ), together with the following supporting documents, to the Classification Unit via fax no. 6337 6361:

• Certificate of Analysis (COA) issued by the supplier or an independent authority
• Bill of lading or air waybill
• Invoice

Singapore Customs will determine and indicate whether sampling is required in the application form. The approved application form will be faxed to the importer.


Number of Samples Required

For each consignment which sampling is required, 2 samples (of up to 500 ml each) are required.


Procedures for Extraction of Samples

For sampling purposes, the importer or his agent is to e-file their application for Customs Supervision to Company Compliance Branch.

Upon successful application for Customs Supervision, the importer or his agent is to fetch the Customs officer at the stipulated time at Basement 4 of the car park at Revenue House for supervision of the extraction of samples.

The cargo may be discharged from the ISO tank or unstuffed from the containers or conventional lorry for storage in the storage tank or importer's warehouse under importer's lock and Customs seal. The importer or his agent can send the extracted samples to any of the approved laboratories listed below:

1. Health Sciences Authority (limited to tests for volume and alcoholic strength only)
   Centre for Analytical Science
   11 Outram Road
   Singapore 169078
   Tel No: 6213 0713
   
   
2. Productivity & Standards Board Corporation Pte Ltd
   Testing Group, Chemical and Materials
   1 Science Park Drive
   Singapore 118221
   Tel No: 6885 1335
   
   
3. ALS Technichem (S) Pte Ltd
   14 Little Road, #07-01, #08-01
   Tropical Industrial Building
   Singapore 536987
   Tel No: 6743 4311
   
   
4. Chemical Laboratory (S) Pte Ltd
   520 Balestier Road, #06-01
   Leong On Building
   Singapore 329853
   Tel No: 6253 6122
   

If the analysis report deems the product as denatured ethyl alcohol or methanol, Company Compliance Branch will endorse the release date on the Application Form and return it to the importer.

Upon receipt of the endorsement, importers can proceed to cut the seal and release their product accordingly. The cut seal must be returned to Company Compliance Branch within 3 working days from the date of release as endorsed by Company Compliance Branch.


Accepted Denaturants for Denatured Ethyl Alcohol

The accepted denaturants and their required concentration, for denatured ethyl alcohol are as follows:

• 5% (v/v) methyl alcohol
• 5% (v/v) isopropyl alcohol
• 5% (v/v) chloroform
• 0.125% (v/v) tert-butyl alcohol and 0.0005% (w/v) denatonium benzoate (Bitrex)
• 5% (v/v) toluene
• 1% (v/v) diethyl phthalate
• 4.25% (v/v) ethyl acetate having ester content of 100% by weight
• 50ppm (w/v) aqueous nicotine and 0.7ppm (w/v) methylene blue
• 4% (v/v) methyl alcohol and 0.0009% (w/v) denatonium benzoate (Bitrex)
• 4% (v/v) methyl n-butyl ketone/methyl isobutyl ketone and 1% kerosene
• 2% (v/v) methyl ethyl ketone/acetone and 3 % (v/v) methyl isobutyl ketone

source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Importation+of+Denatured+Ethyl+Alcohol+and+Methanol.htm

Importation of Trade Samples in singapore

Bona fide trade samples (excluding liquors and tobacco) of a total value not exceeding $400/- on the CIF (Costs, Insurance and Freight) value may be imported without payment of duty and/or GST. A Customs In-Non-Payment (GST Relief) permit is required for the importation if the bona fide trade samples are controlled items. Supporting documents eg. invoice, bill of lading/airway bill are required to be produced to Customs at the entry point for verification.

Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Importation+of+Trade+Samples.htm

Importation of Intoxicating Liquors & Tobacco Products in singapore

The importation of all intoxicating liquors and tobacco products into Singapore is subjected to duties and 7% Goods & Services Tax (GST) on the CIF value (cost, insurance and freight) plus the duties payable. The duty rates can be found here.


Import procedure

• The importer or his agent has to be registered with the Singapore Customs and maintain a security, in the form of a bank guarantee or insurance bond with Customs for transactions involving dutiable liquors and tobacco products.
• A Customs In-Non-Payment (Approved Premises /Schemes) Permit has to be taken out by the importer or his agent electronically via the TradeNet® System for the movement of liquors and tobacco products from the point of import to a licensed warehouse for storage. This has to be done within 30 days from the date of arrival.
• The customs tobacco product code and liquor product code are not required for permit declaration.
• Duties and GST have to be paid before the alcoholic beverages and tobacco products are released for sales/consumption locally. The importer or his agent has to apply for a In-Payment (Duty and GST) permit electronically via the TradeNet® System prior the products are released for local sale or consumption. The importer or his agent is to make sure that the tobacco products and/or intoxicating liquors meet the respective requirements which are specified as follows:
  

Tobacco products for local consumption

• The computation of duty for tobacco products will be based on the classification code and unit weight as declared in the Inward Permit. Test weighing of tobacco products for duty assessment is not necessary unless required by Customs
• The tobacco products must bear the Health Warning Clause.
• The code "HW" for Health Warning has to be indicated under the field for "Marking" indicated in the Duty/GST payment declaration.
• Duty payment may be made for direct import of commercial and non-commercial quantities of tobacco products with Health Warning Clause without bonding into a licensed warehouse.

Intoxicating liquors for local consumption

• The computation of duty for liquors will be based on the classification code, unit volume and alcoholic strength as declared in the Inward Permit. Extraction of liquor sample for duty assessment is not necessary unless required by Customs.
• Duty payment may be made for direct import of commercial and non-commercial quantities of liquors without bonding into a LW. Where the duty rate is based on per litre alcohol, the actual alcoholic strength should be used to assess the duty payable.

Liquor Sampling for laboratory testing

Importers may seek confirmation from the supplier when there is any doubt on the volume, alcoholic strength and classification (HS code) of the liquor. Alternatively, importers may arrange for sample to be taken for analysis by any of the following 4 laboratories namely:

1. Health Sciences Authority (limited to tests for volume and alcoholic strength only)
   Centre for Analytical Science
   11 Outram Road
   Singapore 169078
   Tel No: 6213 0713
   
   
2. Productivity & Standards Board Corporation Pte Ltd
   Testing Group, Chemical and Materials
   1 Science Park Drive
   Singapore 118221
   Tel No: 6885 1335
   
   
3. ALS Technichem (S) Pte Ltd
   14 Little Road, #07-01, #08-01
   Tropical Industrial Building
   Singapore 536987
   Tel No: 6743 4311
   
   
4. Chemical Laboratory (S) Pte Ltd
   520 Balestier Road, #06-01
   Leong On Building
   Singapore 329853
   Tel No: 6253 6122
   

For testing of liquors selected by Singapore Customs the test samples must personally be selected by a customs officer. The sample must be sealed and handed over to the importer or his agent to be sent for laboratory analysis within a day. A sample receipt will be issued to the importer to enable him to deduct the stock.

For testing of liquors initiated by the importer, the importer should contact the above laboratories to confirm the sample quantity required for testing before arranging for duty paid samples to be sent for analysis.

No refund of any duty paid after the liquor products have been released from Customs control.

Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Importation+of+Intoxicating+Liquors+and+Tobacco+Products.htm

Importation by Embassy/Consulatein singapore

Embassies, High Commissions, Consulates or accredited Trade Missions in Singapore and persons who have been accorded diplomatic and consular privileges and immunities by the Singapore Government are eligible for duty exemption and GST relief on all goods that are for the personal or official use of the persons or organisation.

An In-Non-Payment (GST Relief and/or Duty Exemption) permit is required to cover the import of such goods but the organisation and its authorised claimants have to be first registered with Customs. To register as a claimant, the importer has to complete a registration form ( DOC 454kb ) and fax it to the address indicated below.

Head, Procedures & Processing Branch Singapore Customs 55 Newton Road #07-02, Revenue House Singapore 307987 Fax: 6251 3804

Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Importation+by+EmbassyConsulate.htm

Importation of Motor Vehicles in Singapore

The importation of motor vehicles for local use has to be declared to Customs through a duty and GST payment permit. A duty rate of 20% of the Customs value will be levied on a motor car while a duty rate of 12% of the Customs value will be levied on a motorcycle or scooter. A 7% GST will also be levied on the CIF value (cost, insurance and freight) plus the duty payable.


Determining the Customs Value of a Motor Vehicle

The Customs value of the motor vehicle is derived from the transaction value, i.e. the price paid or payable for the imported vehicle. Overseas freight and insurance charges are included to establish the Customs value in CIF. The transaction value needs to be adjusted to reflect other charges including commissions, assists (materials supplied by the importer), packing costs, proceeds of resale accruing to the seller, royalties and licence fees, and etc.

To determine the Customs value of the motor vehicle to be imported, a declaration in the format as per Form SC-A-012 ( Doc.299kb ) has to be submitted to Customs with the following documents:

1. Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading,
2. Freight and Insurance Papers,
3. Bills/Receipts relating to other charges,
4. Documents relating to exhaust emission test, windscreen test, etc,
5. Vehicle Data Card,
6. Vehicle's registration and/or de-registration documents (if previously registered), and
7. A manufacturer's letter confirming the date of manufacture of the vehicle.

Payment of Duty and GST

On receipt of the value of the vehicle determined by Customs, an In-Payment (Duty and GST) Declaration through the TradeNet® System has to be lodged. An agent can be appointed to lodge the declaration on the Importer's behalf. No refund of duty and GST paid will be made once the vehicle has been removed from Customs control/FTZ.


Important Note

Please check with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for their latest requirements before you import your vehicle.
Soyrce: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Importation+of+Motor+Vehicles.htm

Re-Importation of Singapore-Made Goods/Goods of Foreign Origin

The Goods & Services Tax (Imports Relief) Order provides for GST relief on goods which were exported and subsequently re-imported into Singapore. For taxable persons registered with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), the relief will obviate the need to pay and claim GST on such re-imported goods.


Categories of Re-Imports for GST Relief

The following types of goods which may be granted GST relief on re-importation into Singapore and the required documents are given below:

Type Goods Requisite Document I Goods manufactured, assembled or produced in Singapore In-Non-Payment Permit II Goods which have been supplied or imported into Singapore prior to export In-Non-Payment Permit III Goods temporarily exported for repair, rental In-Non-Payment Permit IV Bona fide trade samples temporarily exported to solicit orders In-Non-Payment Permit V Singapore-registered motor vehicles exported to overseas destinations and vehicles exported to participate in sports, racing or similar event In-Non-Payment Permit VI Horses, private or recreational boats or aircraft In-Non-Payment Permit

The first 2 categories may be goods which are returned to Singapore by the overseas customers due to defects or failure at quality control tests. They may also be returned to Singapore upon completion of projects or assignments or expiry of lease to overseas customers. In other instances, these are goods which participated in overseas exhibitions, fairs or similar events or were used for performances or shows overseas.


Conditions to be Fulfilled

1. The goods must be identified to Customs to have been those previously exported from Singapore.
2. In the case of manufactured goods, the importer must satisfy Customs that the goods have not undergone any processing or manipulation outside Singapore since their exportation.
3. In the case of goods exported for repair, GST relief would be granted on the original remaining parts as well as new parts if the repair had been carried out at no charge under the terms of a warranty or guarantee agreement.
4. Goods under categories III and IV should be re-imported within 3 months from the date of export while those exported under Category VI should be re-imported immediately after the event.
5. The importer of a vehicle under category V must be able to satisfy Customs that there was no change of ownership of the vehicle while it was outside Singapore.
6. Where the re-import is made by a non-taxable person, the GST should have been paid previously and has not been refunded.

Documentation

The export and re-import of the goods should be covered by a Customs OUT (Re-imported Goods) Permit and a Customs In-Non-Payment (Re-imported Goods) Permit respectively. For the re-import of goods under categories V, the importer should obtain a Customs In-Non-Payment (GST Relief with Duty Exemption) Permit. Customs permits are applied electronically through the TradeNet® System.

At the time of export, the exporter must produce the goods together with the Customs OUT Permit, invoice and shipping documents to Customs at the exit point for verification. Similarly at the time of re-import, the importer must present to Customs at the entry point the goods together with the following documents:

1. the Customs In-Non-Payment Permit
2. the previous Customs OUT Permit
3. the commercial invoice & packing list
4. bill of lading or airway bill
5. supporting documents for the approved In-Non-Payment Permit

Application for Customs Inward Permit for Category V and VI

Before an importer can apply for a Customs In-Non-Payment Permit under Category V, he must first register with Customs as a claimant. To register as a claimant, the importer has to complete a registration form ( DOC 454kb ) and fax it to the address indicated below.

Head, Procedures & Processing Branch Singapore Customs 55 Newton Road, #08-01, Revenue House. Singapore 307987 Fax: 6250 960

Alternatively the form could be submitted through the Customs website via the E-services option.


Use of ATA Carnets

In lieu of Customs permits, ATA carnets, which are obtainable from the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce, may be used to cover the export and re-import of the goods. Carnets may likewise be used for the temporary export and re-import of goods which were originally imported under the Major Exporter Scheme.

Prior to the export, the exporter should apply through e-filing to Permits Compliance Branch for inspection of the goods. Advance notice of 24 hours is required for arrangement of such inspections.


Granting of GST Relief

GST relief would be granted if Customs is satisfied that the goods re-imported are those previously exported from Singapore and that the conditions for the relief have been fully complied with. If not, a GST of 7% based on the CIF value of the imported goods will be collected.
Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Re-Importation+of+Singapore-Made+GoodsGoods+of+Foreign+Origin.htm

Re-importation of Goods Temporarily Exported in singapore

Goods temporarily exported for exhibitions or repairs or soliciting trade may be brought back into Singapore without payment of duties and/or GST subject to the following conditions:

1. The export and re-import of the goods must be registered with Customs by means of Customs OUT (Re-imported Goods) and In-Non-Payment (Re-imported Goods) permits respectively.
2. The goods are identified to the satisfaction of the proper officer of Customs at the time of export and re-import.
3. In the case of re-import by a non-taxable person, the tax had been paid previously and has not been refunded.
4. In the case of trade samples, they must be exported for the sole purpose of soliciting trade.
5. The goods are to be re-imported within 3 months from exportation date or such further period as allowed.
6. In the case of repairs, the waiver of duty and GST shall be applicable only to the remaining original parts of the goods. The importer has to obtain from the repairer a certificate confirming whether new parts have or have not been added, and an invoice on the cost of workmanship for the repair and the prices of the new parts added, if any.

The conditions are to be complied with before duty exemption and/or GST relief is granted for the re-imported goods. Failure to satisfy the conditions will mean that duty and/or GST is payable for the items.

Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Re-importation+of+Goods+Temporarily+Exported.htm

Temporary Importation for Repairs & Other Approved Purposes

Goods are allowed to be temporarily imported for repairs and other approved purposes such as stage performance, testing, experiments and demonstration without payment of duty and/or GST. This is subject to the condition that they are re-exported within three months from the date of importation. If the goods are not re-exported after the expiry of the given period, duty and/or GST will become payable.

The procedures for such importations are:

1. The declarant should apply for a Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit under the Temporary Import Scheme at the time of importation. For temporary import under other approved purposes, a letter explaining the purpose of the import should be submitted together with the supporting documents such as commercial invoice and bill of lading/airway bill to the Permits Processing Unit, Procedures & Processing Branch of Singapore Customs.
2. The declarant/importer should also furnish security in the form of a bank/finance company guarantee.
3. Customs will place identification marks on the goods at the point of entry or verify serial numbers e.g. engine and chassis number on motor vehicles against the relevant documents before release.
4. Goods under temporary import must be re-exported within the period approved for the temporary importation. A Customs OUT (Temporary Consignment) permit is required for the re-exportation of the goods. The Customs OUT (Temporary Consignment) permit and the goods must be produced to Customs at the exit point for examination.
5. Customs will verify the identification marks or serial numbers against the relevant documents at the exit point.
6. Permits Compliance Unit will then arrange to return the bank/finance company guarantee accordingly.

7. For the temporary import of motor vehicles for repairs, a declaration each from the importer doc link and workshop doc link should be submitted together with the supporting documents such as commercial invoice and bill of lading/airway bill to the Permits Processing Unit, Procedures & Processing Branch of Singapore Customs upon permit declaration.

Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Temporary+Importation+for+Repairs+and+Other+Approved+Purposes.htm

Temporary Importation for Exhibitions, Auctions & Fairs in singapore

Goods for exhibitions, except liquor and tobacco, could be temporarily imported for display or use at exhibitions without payment of GST. You may use either ATA Carnets or the Temporary Import Scheme for importing such goods temporarily.

If controlled goods are to be imported for under this Scheme, prior approval must be obtained from the various controlling authorities in Singapore. Any controlled goods found to have been imported without authorization from the appropriate controlling authority will be impounded or detained by Customs and referred to the appropriate controlling authority.

The organisers, exhibitors, freight forwarders and declaring agents may also be required by Customs to provide information or produce documents regarding any exhibition under Sections 90 and 91 of the Customs Act. Failure to provide the information or to produce the document requested constitutes an offence under the Act.


Use of Local Freight Forwarders for Declaration of Permits

Goods imported under the Temporary Import Scheme, has to be covered by the proper Customs permits. Similarly, the duty/GST payment and re-exportation of the goods are to be covered by the proper Customs permit as well. To apply for a Customs permit, you may engage the services of a of a local freight forwarder registered with Customs. The flow of documents to be prepared is shown here ( DOC 24kb ).

Goods for exhibitions may be imported 3 weeks before the exhibition and be re-exported within 3 weeks of the closure of the exhibition. Requests for extension of these periods must be made in writing (with reasons stated) to Head, Permits Compliance Branch. Such requests will be considered on a case by case basis and approval will be granted if there are cogent reasons.


ATA Carnet

A foreign exhibitor could import exhibition goods into Singapore using ATA carnet. In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits are not required when goods are imported using an ATA Carnet. When the exhibitor arrives in Singapore, he must produce the carnet together with the goods to Customs at the checkpoint for verification and endorsement.

If goods imported under the carnet are sold, GST is payable on the goods at 7% of the CIF value or selling price, whichever is the higher. The GST could be paid by means of a In-Payment permit which is obtainable through a local freight forwarder who is registered with Singapore Customs.

When goods covered by a carnet are taken out of Singapore, the foreign exhibitor must produce the carnet and the goods to Customs at the exit point for verification and endorsement. GST will be recovered from the carnet holder on any item that is unaccounted for.


Banker's Guarantee (BG)/Insurance bond

Banker's Guarantee is a requirement under the Temporary Import Scheme. Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits will be automatically rejected by the TradeNet® system if their BG/Insurance bond is insufficient or if there is no BG/Insurance Bond lodged.

For the temporary import of dutiable motor vehicles for repairs, exhibition and other approved purposes, the amount of bank guarantee/insurance bond required is 30% of potential duty and GST payable on the motor vehicle if the importer is GST registered. If the importer is not GST registered, the BG/Insurance bond required is only 50% of the potential duty and GST payable.

To temporarily import certain selected goods such as jewellery, precious stones, handbags, garments, antiques, watches, etc, for repairs and other approved purposes, the BG/Insurance bond required from GST-registered importers would be only 50% of the potential GST payable on the selected goods. Only importers who are not GST-registered would be required to put up a BG/Insurance bond for 100% the potential GST payable on these selected goods. For the detailed list of the selected goods subject to this requirement, please click here ( PDF 25kb ).

For the temporary import of non-dutiable goods, the amount of bank guarantee/insurance bond required is:

30% of the potential GST for exhibitions with sales/auctions for taxable companies

50 % of the potential GST for exhibitions with sales/auctions for non-taxable companies

30% of the potential GST for repairs and other approved purposes for taxable companies

50% of the potential GST for repairs and other approved purposes for non-taxable companies

The required BG/Insurance bond must be lodged with Customs before any Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits are declared through the TradeNet® system.

The BG/Insurance bond must be lodged by the exhibition organiser, exhibitor or their local freight forwarder/declaring agent, on the prescribed formats obtainable from the e-filing option available in our website. The BG/Insurance bond shall remain operative for at least three months after the closure of the exhibition.

When submitting the BG/Insurance bond to the Securities Registration Officer, the organiser, exhibitor or their local freight forwarder/declaring agent shall provide, on their letter-head, the name, venue and period of the exhibition.

The declarant of the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits (and any other party lodging the BG/Insurance bond for the imported goods) will be held responsible for ensuring that the conditions imposed on the permits have been complied with, including the re-exportation of the goods within the period allowed for temporary importation.

The declarants should pay duties/GST on any items listed in the In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits that are sold, transferred or disposed of locally and on items not covered by Customs OUT (Temporary Consignment) permits. If the duties/GST on such items is not paid, it will be recovered from BG/Insurance bond lodged by the declarant or other party. The BG/Insurance bond will be discharged when there is no outstanding revenue due to Customs in connection with the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits declared.


Letter of Undertaking (applicable to government agencies and statutory boards)

The Banker's Guarantee/Insurance bond as stated above can be waived if all the goods imported for the entire exhibition are re-exported and there are no local sale, transfer or disposal of the goods.

The Letter of Undertaking (LU) must be put up by the government agency or statutory board concerned at least one month prior to importation of the goods, in the prescribed format. A sample of a letter of undertaking for waiver of security ( DOC 21kb ) is attached.

Before submitting the LU to the Temporary Import Unit, the government agency or statutory board concerned shall provide the name, venue and period of the exhibition, the value of the goods to be imported and the appointed freight forwarder for the event. The LU is subject to approval by Customs.


Reconciliation List of Permits

To facilitate early release of the BG after the exhibition, the declarant of the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits must submit to the Temporary Import Unit, Permits Compliance Branch, a reconciliation list as per Annex B ( DOC 38kb ) showing the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permits, In-Payment permits and Customs OUT (Temporary Consignment) permits taken out for the exhibition goods. Goods stored pending re-exportation are subject to Customs inspection at the place of storage. If any goods are unaccounted for, the GST payable will be recovered from the BG lodged by the declarant of the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit or the party who lodged the BG for the goods.


Brochures, Pamphlets and Gifts

GST should be paid on all brochures, pamphlets, gifts and other give-away items imported for an exhibition as they are meant for local use. However, there is provision for relief of GST if such goods are imported by post or by air and the total value of such goods does not exceed $400.


Sealing and Unstuffing of Goods

Officers at the entry points may seal any package or container before releasing the goods. Such sealed packages or containers should be unpacked/unstuffed under Customs supervision. The organiser, local freight forwarder, local declaring agent or exhibitor must apply for Customs supervision of unpacking/unstuffing to Permits Compliance Branch through e-filing 24 hours before the intended operation. Fees will be charged for such services.


Re-exported Goods under the Temporary Import Scheme

Officers of the Temporary Import Unit, Permits Compliance Branch may place Customs seals on any package or container containing goods to be re-exported after the exhibition. The sealed package/container should be produced to Customs at the exit point with the seals intact. The organiser, local freight forwarder, local declaring agent or exhibitor should apply for Customs supervision of packing/stuffing to Permits Compliance Branch through e-filing at least one day before the end of the exhibition. Fees will be charged for such services.


Unauthorised Breakage of Customs Seals

It is an offence to break or tamper with any Customs seal placed on any package or container. The declarant of the Customs permit and the person having custody of the sealed package or container should take measures to safeguard the Customs seal.


Displaying Undeclared Imported Goods

It is the responsibility of the organiser to inform foreign and local exhibitors in advance that all goods imported for display at the exhibition must be declared to Customs at the entry point, the goods must also be covered by proper Customs documents. These documents should be retained by the exhibitors as they are subject to Customs inspection at the exhibition site. If any exhibitor fails to declare the imported exhibition goods to Customs at the entry point, he would be committing an offence under the Customs Act.


Customs Clearance of Hand-carried Exhibition Goods

Arrival Clearance
If the goods for the exhibition are to be hand-carried into Singapore, the exhibitor's local declaring agent must fax a copy of the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit to the exhibitor. The exhibitor must then produce the document and the goods to Customs for verification and endorsement at the entry point.

If there is insufficient time for this to be done, the declaring agent should fax a copy of the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit to the Officer Commanding (OC) of the Customs at the entry point concerned before the exhibitor arrives in Singapore. The name of the exhibitor, his arrival date/time and flight number must be provided.

The exhibitor must declare the goods to Customs at the entry point and, if he is not in possession of a copy of the In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit, he should check with his local declaring agent, the In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit approved for the goods.

Departure Clearance
If the unsold exhibition goods are to be hand-carried out of Singapore, the exhibitor's local declaring agent must provide the exhibitor with a copy of the Customs OUT (Temporary Consignment) permit at the end of the exhibition. The exhibitor or the local declaring agent must produce the OUT (Temporary Consignment) permit and the goods for Customs verification and endorsement at the exit point.

Only endorsements of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority on the export documents will be accepted as proof of export.

The onus of ensuring that the permits are produced to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority for endorsement at the exit point falls on the declarant of the Customs In-Non-Payment permit or the party lodging the Banker's Guarantee with Customs for the relevant goods. If the foreign exhibitor is taking the goods out by air via Changi Airport, the exhibitor or local declaring agent should produce the permit together with the goods for Customs verification and endorsement at one of the two GST Refund Counters located in the Airport's departure hall at least one hour before the departure time.

The counter before the airline check-in counters is for Checkpoints inspection of goods meant to be checked-in as luggage whilst the other counter located in the departure hall after the Immigration counters is meant for Checkpoints inspection of hand-carried items. The local declaring agent would not be able to gain access to the latter GST Refund Counter unless he has a pass issued by the Airport Police.


Payment of Duties/GST on Goods Sold, Transferred or Disposed of Locally

Duties/GST must be paid on any item listed in the Customs In-Non-Payment (Temporary Consignment) permit that is sold, transferred, disposed of locally or not re-exported under a Customs OUT (Temporary Consignment) permit. The responsibility for paying the duties/GST to Customs rests with the declarant of the permit and alternatively on the party lodging the Banker's Guarantee for the imported goods.

The duties/GST should be paid to Customs within 14 working days of the closure of the exhibition. If the duties/GST due is not paid, it will be recovered from the Banker's Guarantee lodged by these parties. In view of this, organisers must ensure that all foreign exhibitors are properly informed to pay the duties/GST to their local declaring agents before leaving Singapore.

The GST will be based on the declared value or selling price, whichever is the higher. If dutiable goods are sold, the duty must be included when computing the GST. Customs officers would conduct inspections of the goods displayed and the documents covering the importation and sales at the exhibition site.
Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trad/imp/Temporary+Importation+for+Exhibitions+Auctions+and+Fairs.htm

warehouse of goods

Warehousing of Liquors and Tobacco

All imports of liquors and tobacco (including cigarettes) must be stored in a licensed warehouse. Application for stuffing/unstuffing of dutiable goods at a licensed warehouse should be e-filed to Company Compliance Branch 24 hours before the operation. Click here to e-file application.

Every case, cask or package in good condition, containing dutiable goods shall be deemed to contain the full quantity as declared in the relevant Customs permits unless a Customs inspection is conducted. Application for a Customs inspection should be made within 24 hours of arrival of the goods in a licensed warehouse. Click here to e-file application.

After the inspection, the owner of the goods or his agent may re-condition or repack the goods. Duties may be remitted on any goods found deficient at the time of inspection.

Goods that are not fit for human consumption may be destroyed under Customs supervision.

Fees for inspection, supervision of repacking and destruction are payable in respect of dutiable goods surveyed, repacked or destroyed.

Please click here ( DOC 30kb ) for an overview of the procedure for storing dutiable imports in licensed warehouses and here for more information on the licensed warehouse scheme.


Warehousing of Non-Dutiable Goods

Imported non-dutiable goods can be stored in a Zero-GST Warehouse pending re-export. The GST on the imported goods will be suspended as long as the goods remain in the warehouse. GST is not charged on the sales of goods while they are in the warehouse. There is also no GST payable on the goods when they are removed for export. GST is only charged when the goods are removed from the warehouse for local use.

The movement of goods into and from the Zero-GST warehouse must be covered by relevant Customs permits.

The licensee must maintain inventory record on goods stored. A discrepancy report must be submitted without delay to Schemes Promotion & Administration Branch on any discrepancy in stock.

Please click here ( DOC 36kb ) for an overview of the procedure for storing non-dutiable imports in Zero-GST warehouses and here for more information on the Zero- GST warehouse scheme.
Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg

Goods Subject to Control in singapore

The import, export and transhipment of some goods are subject to the control of Controlling Agencies.

Some Controlling Agencies require you to apply for approval or a licence prior to the import, export or transhipment of the controlled goods.

You are required to submit the permit applications to the relevant Controlling Agencies through the TradeNet® system for processing and approval before importing, exporting or transhipping the goods that are subject to control.
For a list of Controlling Agencies in Singapore, please click here ( DOC 37kb ).
Please click here ( DOC 152kb ) to view the list of controlled imports and here ( DOC 136kb ) to view the list of controlled exports.
For a more comprehensive list of items that are subject to control by the relevant Controlling Agency, please refer to the below appendices:

• Appendix A - Items under IMPORT control ( DOC 875kb )
  
  
• Appendix B - Items under EXPORT control ( DOC 41kb )
  
  
• Appendix C - Items under IMPORT & EXPORT control ( DOC 2,188kb )
  
  
• Appendix D - Items under IMPORT, EXPORT & TRANSHIPMENT control ( DOC 227kb )
  
  
• Appendix E - Not in use
  
  
• Appendix F - Not in use
  
  
• Appendix G - Items under IMPORT control for CONTROLLED & DUTIABLE HS ( DOC 74kb )

To apply for approval/licence from Controlling Agencies, please click here.
Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg

Import & Export Procedures into Singapore

IMPORT

For transhipment of controlled items within the same Free Trade Zone, you are required to:Import
For import of all goods (including controlled and non-controlled items) into Singapore, you are required to:

• Obtain an IN Permit through TradeNet® before goods are imported into Singapore, and
• Pay the duty and/or Goods and Services Tax (GST) due at the prevailing rate at the time of importation.

Please click here ( DOC 32kb ) for an overview of the import procedure in general.

Import of High-Technology Items

Certain high-technology items are subject to export control by the exporting country. In this case, the exporter in the exporting country may ask the Singapore importer to provide an Import Certificate and Delivery Verification (ICDV) so that the exporter can seek approval from his government authority to export the items.

Importers can apply for an ICDV from Singapore Customs. Items covered by an ICDV must be imported into Singapore directly, and are not to be diverted to other countries. For more information on ICDV application procedures and conditions, click here.

EXPORT

For export of goods out of Singapore, you are required to:

• Obtain an OUT Permit through TradeNet® within 3 days of export if your goods are non-controlled and are exported by sea or air, or
• Obtain an OUT Permit through TradeNet® before goods are exported out of Singapore if your goods are controlled or are exported by road and rail, or
• Obtain an OUT (Temporary Consignment) Permit through TradeNet® before exporting goods previously imported under the Temporary Import Scheme out of Singapore, or
• Obtain an OUT (Re-imported Goods) permit throught TradeNet® before goods are exported under the Temporary Export Scheme.

Please click here ( DOC 28kb ) for an overview of the export procedure in general.

TRANSHIPMENT

• Obtain a Transhipment (TTF) Permit through TradeNet if the transhipment goods were previously brought into the Free Trade Zone from overseas for temporary storage in the Free Trade Zone, pending transhipment via the same Free Trade Zone.

For transhipment of goods from one Free Trade Zone to another, you are required to:

• Obtain a Transhipment (TTI) Permit through TradeNet if the transhipment goods were previously brought into the Free Trade Zone from overseas and subsequently transhipped via the second Free Trade Zone.

Please click here ( DOC 33kb ) for an overview of the transhipment procedure in general.

Source: http://www.customs.gov.sg

Reclaim VAT on EU transactions

All 25 countries in the European Union impose VAT. However the rates vary from country to country, though there are currently moves in the EU to standardise the range. The differences in value are quite wide and averages around 19%, with top rates reaching 25% in some countries.

In addition, countries tend to impose VAT on different items. In the UK for example VAT is not imposed on children's clothing or books.

Surprisingly few businesses realise that they are in fact able to reclaim VAT on many cross-border transactions. According to some estimates, US companies are currently reclaiming only 20% of the more than 1 billion dollars they are paying in VAT in Europe, whereas German companies are giving away an estimated 1.2 billion dollars in unclaimed European VAT refunds.

Clearly if you are going to be doing a lot of business in Europe you should consider reclaiming your VAT as part of your business strategy.

According to current regulations you can recover most of your VAT expenses such as those paid on:

• Business travel costs. This includes car rentals, hotel accommodation, meals, gas expenses, telephone expenses, etc
• Business operating expenses (e.g. maintenance costs)
• Marketing/advertising services
• Professional advice such as that obtained through business consultancy services
• Trade-fair expenses and conference costs
• Various items of capital expenditure (e.g. machines and equipment)
• Exports into Europe and inter-European transfers of goods (subject to certain limitations)

However knowing what you can claim and claiming it are two different things. In order to reclaim all your VAT expenses you will need to undertake the steps in our checklist below.

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Use a letter of credit when importing or exporting

A letter of credit (or documentary credit) is the most secure and convenient payment method for international transactions. It is a document issued by a bank guaranteeing an importer’s ability to pay for goods or services.

A bank issues a letter of credit on behalf of an importer, authorising the exporter to obtain payment within a specified timeframe provided the conditions outlined in the letter of credit are met. The letter of credit acts like an insurance contract for the importer and exporter - virtually eliminating the credit risk for both parties, while at the same time reducing payment delays.

Types of letters of credit

How it works (using a confirmed letter of credit)

Common errors to avoid

Understand export documentation

Compiling the correct export documentation, knowing where to send it, when and to whom speeds up the processing of transactions and builds confidence in the professionalism of your business.

Why documentation?

Key reasons for using documentation:

• Describing cargo
• Reducing delayed shipments and delivery
• Customs clearance
• Indicating ownership of goods for collection or in the event of a dispute
• Obtaining payment

The type of documentation required often depends on the Incoterm (international code for delivery) used for the contract. A freight forwarder will usually assume responsibility for export documentation, although it is still a good idea to understand the different types and procedures.

Commercial documents

Commercial invoice - a bill for the goods, including product description, shipping marks, price, etc. The invoice must meet the requirements of customs authorities in the export market, as it used for making import duty assessments.

Pro forma invoice - used in advance of the commercial invoice, for instance, when an importer has to get an allocation of foreign exchange or an import licence.

Export Cargo Shipping Instruction (ECSI) - issued by the exporter to the forwarder or carrier, setting out the terms and conditions for the movement of goods and who is responsible.

Official documents

Single Administrative Document (SAD) - also known as the C88, it is required for exports, imports and goods transiting the EU.

Export licence - required for certain goods to be exported legally (eg drugs, chemicals, etc). It is the exporter's responsibility to ensure that a licence is obtained if necessary.

Certificate of origin (C/O) - a statement on the origin of the goods. It may be required in addition to the commercial invoice, and is available from Chambers of Commerce for goods of any origin.

Movement certificate - required where goods that qualify as EU originating goods are being exported from the EU to a country covered by EU trade agreements. These certificates ensure preferential tariff treatment.

Import licence - some countries may require import licences for certain or all goods. It is normally the customer's responsibility to comply with import procedures, but it makes sense for the exporter to confirm that they are doing so.

Inspection certificate - sometimes required by the importer's country to confirm that the shipped goods meet their specifications.

Transport documents

Export packing list - attached to the outside of the package to be shipped, this specifies the weight, volume and type of cargo.

Bill of lading - a contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier. It may describe the condition of the goods when transferred to the shipper, and it also serves as a document of title. There are two types:

• Straight - non-negotiable, delivery to the named person in the bill
• Shipper's order - negotiable, delivery to a designated person. It can be bought, sold or traded while goods are in transit (eg for use in letter of credit transactions, where the bank can release the title to the goods to the buyer when payment is received)

Sea waybill - used for sea freight, it serves the same purpose as the bill of lading except that it is not a document of title.

Air waybill - issued by an airline for airfreight, it is similar to the bill of lading but cannot serve as a document of title.

Dangerous goods note - required when shipping hazardous or potentially hazardous goods. The exporter must provide the transporter with full details of the goods including the official 'class' of danger to which they belong.

Standard shipping note - completed by the exporter, it is the receiving document for ports and container bases in the UK.

Insurance documents

Insurance policy - should cover goods for at least their full value (110% is common), and include details of quantity and route. Where necessary, it should also provide for time extensions and trans-shipments.

Certificate of insurance - certifies that insurance has been arranged for the goods being exported. It should detail the degree of protection, and list the policy number and all relevant details (eg dates, destinations, transport method, route, description of the cargo and value for which it is insured).

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Receive payments for exports

Receiving prompt payment for your exported goods is key to maintaining positive cash flow for your business. Your international buyer, on the other hand, is more interested in receiving the right goods on time and delaying payment for as long as possible. To keep both parties satisfied, the terms of payment should be agreed in advance.

The main methods of payment for international transactions include:

• Payment in advance
• Letters of credit - confirmed and unconfirmed
• Documentary collections - against payment/against acceptance
• Consignment
• Open account

Payment in advance

This is the least risky payment method for exporters, but can sometimes prove too expensive and risky for international buyers. Be wary of insisting on payment in advance - if your competitors' payments terms are more attractive your potential buyer may go elsewhere. If, however, the products to be exported require specialised, lengthy or capital-intensive manufacturing then it is reasonable to ask for (at least) partial payment in advance.

Letters of credit

Letters of credit, issued by banks on behalf of buyers, are a popular and internationally recognised method of payment. They represent the bank's assurance to pay the exporter, provided the specified conditions are met, and act as security for both parties.

Once the letter of credit has been drawn up, the importer instructs the bank to transfer payment to the exporter's bank. The exporter then dispatches the goods, and passes the invoice and shipping documents to the bank in order to receive payment. However note that unless the letter of credit is confirmed in UK, the exporter may have to wait some days and possibly weeks to receive payment from overseas which can have serious implications on cash flow.

The letter of credit ensures that:

• Payment to the exporter will only be made after the terms of the agreement have been met
• The documents, which have been reviewed by the bank's experienced staff, are strictly in accordance with the letter of credit
• The exporter is assured of the importer's ability to pay and, as a result, a better price and more advantageous terms of payment may be offered

Documentary collection

A documentary collection involves the exporter issuing a bill of exchange to the importer. The buyer pays the agreed amount either on sight or on a specified date in the future in accordance with the terms of the bill of exchange. The exporter's bank, acting as an intermediary, transfers ownership of the goods to the importer by passing documents of title, usually the bill of lading.

This method of payment is riskier than using a letter of credit because a bank does not guarantee the bill of exchange. Also, if the buyer defaults on payment the exporter may have to pursue collection through the courts.

Consignment

When goods are exported subject to consignment, the exporter only receives payment on completed sales. Any unsold items may be returned to the exporter, usually at their expense.

Clearly this method of payment poses a high risk to the exporter, as there is generally no way of predicting when (if ever) the goods will be sold and thus receiving payment.

Open account

Offering importers an open account means that the goods will be manufactured and delivered upon receipt of a purchase order. The exporter then normally raises an invoice to the buyer before or at the time goods are despatched with payment terms set at a number of days (e.g. 14, 30 or 60 days). If the invoice isn't available at the time the goods are despatched customs clearance may be a problem.

This method of payment is the most attractive to importers, but can be risky for exporters. Consider offering an open account if you've developed a relationship with the buyer, they are creditworthy and the export country is politically and economically stable. You must have absolute trust in that you will be paid.

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Understand customs rules

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is the government department responsible for administering or enforcing controls on the international movement of goods. It consults regularly with the business community, with the aim of simplifying policies and procedures to enhance UK competitiveness. However, customs rules can at times seem confusing, especially if you are a new to the import or export game.

Simplified procedures

The Customs Freight Simplified Procedures (CFSP) were introduced to keep frontier formalities to a minimum, with the bulk of fiscal and statistical data being supplied to Customs at a later date.

The main advantages for businesses are:

• Certainty of clearance of your goods by Customs at the port or inland depot
• Paperless trading and reduced documentation
• More control over valuable documents, such as licences and preferences
• Potential cash flow benefits, including:
  • Lower costs through electronic submission of Customs documentation
  • You may be able to choose the date of any tax points and accounting periods
  • Duty and tax liabilities are based only on goods when they have been released
  • Local transit movements can take place under a (limitless) guarantee waiver so there is no need to finance a standing transit guarantee

Simplified declaration procedure

Under CFSP, a Simplified Frontier Declaration (SFD) is required at the frontier. Supporting documents, such as invoices and relevant licences, must still be presented before Customs can release your goods. An electronic Supplementary Declaration (SD) giving full details of the transactions will be required at a later date.

For the entry of imported goods into a Customs Warehouse a SFD, usually in electronic form, is required at the frontier. However, no supporting documents are needed at this stage.

Local Clearance Procedure

This is where your goods move from the frontier to a designated inland premises over which you exercise control. Following a period of Temporary Storage they are released to a Customs procedure.

Community Transit

Goods arriving at the frontier must be moved to your approved designated premises under Community Transit (CT) arrangements. A SFD, usually in electronic form, is required unless the goods arrive via another member state. In these circumstances the existing CT movement can continue from the frontier to the stated destination.

Temporary Storage

Once your goods have been removed from Temporary Storage and released to a Customs procedure, an electronic SD is submitted based on the date shown in your records.

Providing other customs warehousing requirements are complied with, you may remove goods from the warehouse by inputting the details in your records. Supporting documents will need to be retained and produced to customs on request. The recorded date of removal of the goods will determine the tax point and the date for the submission of the electronic SD.

Trade statistics

Intrastat is the system for collecting statistics on the physical trade in goods (i.e. the actual movement of goods) between the member states of the European Union. The threshold changes year by year, but is currently around £250,000 and businesses that have physical trade with other EU member states which exceeds this figure, are required to provide Intrastat supplementary declarations. An Online Electronic Form is available.