The benefits of working with a professional customs clearance agent

​The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) is in the midst of launching a new system called the uCustoms – it is meant to be a ubiquitous portal to streamline their operations which are now a mix of manual and automated procedures. Essentially, the process of clearing customs remains the same with the exception that within the RMCD, cases are managed electronically thereby allowing for faster and more accurate processing.
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This brings us to the importance of appointing a professional customs broker to take care of your customs clearance needs.
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​Information regarding complex administrative requirements

​​Depending on the country of export or the item you are importing, there may be complex administrative prerequisites which might tempt you to hire a headcount just to ensure all the submissions are done correctly and on time.

However, not all organisations can afford to do so.  In this case, a better option would be to appoint a licensed broker for customs clearance services.
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Companies like Alien Logistics offer a total arrangement of export/import solutions, including logistics, cargo shipping, warehousing and distribution, in addition to clearing customs so you can rest assured that your shipment is well managed from end to end.

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​Skilled navigation of the customs clearance process

​There is a reason why you need a license to clear customs. Customs clearance specialists need to be aware of the import and export restrictions and requirements so that all permissions required by the various authorities are sorted out and the appropriate harmonised code is used.

​The laws regarding movement of goods are updated all the time and it is the clearance agent’s duty to be in the know so as to provide advice to their clients.

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Right-sizing your clearance costs

​Cross border customs is not just about how much in taxes you have to pay, there are other essentials related to customs clearance, for example assigning the correct harmonised code to your products and planning whether your goods could be stored in a free zone or bonded facility or if the duties and taxes have to paid without delay to name a couple.

​​These decisions in addition to other logistics concerns can make a difference to your cash flow and product profitability.

Do you know the difference between storing your items in a free zone versus a bonded facility?

Ask us!

Professional customs clearance agents like Alien Logistics listen to your business model and will be able to advise you on workable import, export and transhipment strategies to help you balance your stock and cash flow.
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Help avoid unnecessary expenses

​As the importer on paper, the Customs Department will look to you as the final party for the customs declarations.  To avoid potential errors, black-listing, Customs audits, fines and expensive penalties, ensure your submissions are checked and confirmed by an authorised customs agent.
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On the positive side, there are cost savings when your items are going into a country for a temporary basis before returning home, for example demo products for an exhibition, a car for travels, or even specialised equipment on loan for scientific experiments (like tracking UFOs in the jungles of Borneo, perhaps?). Declared under temporary import, you can avoid paying taxes for these items going into the country of import and again when it comes back home. One of these methods is to use an ATA Carnet.

Harmonised System Code. Source: EximUpdates

​Suitable identification of the goods - knowing the HS Code

​Every item entering a country is categorised under the Harmonised System Code, also known as the HS Code or a tariff code. The code is broken down into paragraphs and sub-paragraphs and the final code assigned will have its duty, tax and import/export permits assigned to the product.








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​In the event you are bringing in a product with an ambiguous HS Code, your customs broker can also assist you to have it formally categorised with Customs, so as to standardise its customs clearance treatment every time it enters the country.

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Dealing with OGA (Other Government Agencies)

"...customs clearance sometimes needs embassy endorsements, ministry approvals, SIRIM certifications, and so on depending on the products being imported/exported..."

Certain goods consequently require approvals from other government departments in order for the items to clear customs. This ranges from pharmaceutical & food items, beauty care products, chemicals, natural materials for medical & research use, to timber and building materials.
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Related to this section are the endorsements from embassies and consular offices for exports going to their countries. 

​This mandatory procedure can be time-consuming as paperwork submitted for endorsements require a certain level of detail and sequence. Not to mention the time taken to wait in line. 

Why does customs clearance sound so complex?
Well, the world is getting smaller and governments have to protect their local economies from negatives ranging from smuggling to pests. So checks and balances have to be put in place.

That is why working with professional customs clearance agents in Malaysia like Alien Logistics is your best bet to hassle-free cross border shipments.

​Psst… we’d love to meet you for tea to talk about your customs clearance requirements, just click on the button below

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