Customs and Logistics Import-Export Checklist

What a good one includes

• Exact HS tariff classification codes for the specific goods being imported or exported to ensure accurate duty calculations.
• A clear breakdown of the chosen Incoterms defining the exact handoff point of risk and cost between buyer and seller.
• A comprehensive list of required documentation, including the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin.
• Timeline milestones for submitting pre-arrival filings like the Importer Security Filing to avoid automatic customs holds.
• Contact details and registration numbers for key partners, including customs brokers, freight forwarders, and relevant government agencies.
• A dedicated section outlining specific regulatory compliance certificates, licenses, or permits required for restricted or specialized goods.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Misclassifying goods under the wrong HS code to save money, which frequently triggers audits, severe fines, and cargo seizures at the border.
• Misunderstanding Incoterms by assuming the freight forwarder handles domestic customs clearance obligations when the contract states otherwise.
• Failing to verify that product labeling and packaging conform to the destination country’s strict consumer safety and language laws before the cargo sails.
• Relying on outdated shipping templates that do not account for recent geopolitical tariff adjustments or newly enacted trade sanctions.

Frequently asked questions