Customs clearance
Import and export declarations, duties and taxes, inspections and release. Prepared before your goods arrive.
Import and export customs clearance
Customs clearance is where most international shipments lose time. A wrong commodity code, a missing registration or a valuation question can hold cargo for days. We prepare the customs entry before the goods arrive, check the data against the commercial documents and resolve open questions at origin, not at the border.
- Import declarationsEntry filing, duty and import VAT or GST calculation, deferment and postponed accounting where available, and release.
- Export declarationsExport filings, exit confirmation and the evidence you need for VAT-exempt exports.
- Inspections and queriesCoordination of physical and documentary checks and answers to customs queries.
- Partner agency requirementsPermits and data for food, pharma, electrical goods and other regulated products.
- RegistrationsSupport with EORI, IEC, NIB, CARM and other importer registrations in our markets.
Cleared by our own customs team
In these markets, our own staff prepare and file every declaration. Nobody else touches your customs entry.
Cleared by partner teams under our brand
In these markets, dedicated partner teams clear under the Ziem Logistics brand. They follow our procedures and use the shipment data we prepare. You deal with Ziem Logistics from start to finish.
In-house clearance coming soon
We are setting up our own customs clearance here. Contact us to discuss shipments and timelines.
Customs clearance by city
Local customs pages for importers and exporters in the main business centres.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find your answer? Email ops@ziem-logistics.com or call +49 40 57290280.
In which countries does Ziem Logistics clear customs?
We clear customs in 21 markets. Our own team handles clearance in Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Greece, Lithuania, Estonia and the Philippines. In the other markets, partner teams in the Ziem network clear under our brand. In-house clearance in Latvia is launching.
What documents do I need for customs clearance?
Usually a commercial invoice, a packing list and the transport document (air waybill, bill of lading or CMR). Depending on the goods and destination, you may also need a certificate of origin, licences, permits or safety data sheets. We tell you exactly what is needed before the goods ship.
Who pays duties and import taxes?
That depends on the agreed Incoterm. Under DAP the buyer usually pays duties and import taxes; under DDP the seller does. We can settle duties and taxes on your behalf and invoice them, where the local rules allow it.
How long does customs clearance take?
When documents and data are complete, most entries are released within hours of arrival. Inspections, missing permits or classification questions can add days. That is why we check everything before departure and pre-lodge the entry where possible.
Do I need an EORI number or importer registration?
Most markets require an importer ID: an EORI number in the EU, UK and Switzerland, an IEC in India, a NIB in Indonesia, CARM registration in Canada, and so on. Each market page lists the requirement, and we help with the registration process.
Can you clear shipments that another forwarder transports?
Yes. You can use our customs clearance in our core markets on its own, even if another company handles the transport.
Tell us about your shipment
Send us the lane, the goods and the timeline. We reply within one business day. For urgent cargo, call us directly.