How to Avoid Requiring Customs Payment After Shipment Clearance

Customs may require the completion of a "underpayment" up to 5 years from the release of the shipment (sometimes up to 7 years – within the framework of the Indirect Taxes Law), this is not an everyday requirement, but it is recommended to be aware of its existence and prepare accordingly.

Why does customs sometimes require post-release payments? 

Most of the payment requirements are for shipments that have been released in the last five years. Further examination found that they are liable for tax for one of the following reasons:

• A sample examination revealed incompatibility, or missing or invalid documents.
• Issues related to the supplier or goods that led to the decision to reverse check similar shipments.
• Problems with the original documents that were transferred abroad for a verification process initiated by the Customs and were found to be invalid.
• Valuation and redetermination of the value of previously released goods at a different price.

How do we prepare for customs requirements?

• Always check the shipping paperwork, even if the shipment was duty-free or charged less than expected. Sometimes it is better to pay the difference on your own initiative (to make an initiated deficit) and save income and interest later. Have you discovered any problem? Consult us.
• Keep the original paperwork so you can raise counterclaims if necessary.

How does it work?

• Customs sends a notice by registered mail to the importer and customs broker (DHL) for payment within 45 days.
• If you think the demand is unjustified, it is recommended to pay and only then appeal. Failure to comply with the requirement may result in sanctions and delays in import and export shipments.