Returned goods clearance concerns goods coming back after an earlier export. Relief from certain charges may be available where the applicable conditions are met, but a return is not automatically duty-free or free of customs formalities.
Explain exactly why the goods are returning
A rejected sale, warranty return, repair, processing operation and temporary exhibition movement can have different customs implications. Tell the representative what happened to the goods while abroad and whether their condition has changed.
Do not describe repaired or processed goods as unchanged solely to fit a simpler procedure.
Evidence to retain
- Original export declaration and relevant departure evidence.
- Original commercial records.
- Identification linking the returning items to the original goods.
- Return authorisation or correspondence explaining the movement.
- Repair or processing information where applicable.
- The new packing and transport details.
Serial numbers, photographs and item-level records can be useful, especially for equipment. A similar replacement product is not necessarily the same item originally exported.
Check eligibility before dispatch
The responsible representative should establish the applicable time limits, condition requirements and evidence for the particular customs territory. Duty relief and VAT treatment need separate review; a relief in one area does not automatically settle the other.
Coordinate with the transport plan
Tell Cargo Euro Hub that the shipment is a return when requesting a quotation. Provide the relevant document contacts and any designated clearance location. The manager confirms the transport and customs scope offered.
Pack the goods for their current condition, especially if damaged. Read identity of goods, value documents and customs paperwork.