Import Procedure

Commercial Invoice

Commercial invoice is a formal note for payment. It is used as a customs declaration, meaning that the product is exported across international borders. Commercial invoice is prepared by the exporter. There are some risks related with the commercial invoice, including undervalued commercial invoice. Some sellers are willing to pay less taxes or avoid some formalities. As the commercial invoice is checked carefully by the customs, your goods may be withheld and you may suffer losses.

Certificate of Origin according to Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (Form B)

A document required by the authorities in an importing country to prove the origin of the goods. A CO is valid for one year from the date of issuance. This CO is applied to following countries: Bangladesh, India, Laos, South Korea and Sri Lanka. Other pre-requisites include: Registration Form, Trade Operator Registration Form or Trade qualification certificate, Organization Code Certificate, A Power of Attorney (if)

Bill of Lading (BL)

A B/L is issued by the carrier or their agent to the shipper or their agent in exchange for the receipt of the cargo. It’s the proof that the carrier has received the goods from the shipper or their agent in apparent good order and condition. Bill of Lading is issued by the shipping company. It can be used as the proof of shipment for customs and insurance companies. It can be delivered to the bank as a proof, so that the seller can execute the letter of credit. It may also be sent to the buyer, so that he can pay off the contract.

Asean-China Free Trade Area Preferential Tariff Certificate of Origin (Form E)

A document required by the authorities in an importing country to prove the origin of the goods. A CO is valid for one year from the date of issuance. This CO is applied to Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Other pre-requisites include: Registration Form, Trade Operator Registration Form or Trade qualification certificate, Organization Code Certificate, A Power of Attorney (if).