Practical notes on the rules and problems exporters meet in real shipments: who must register what, which documents and labels are needed, and how to avoid holds. Each note is checked against official sources.
268 notes
Your first export step by step: HS code, destination rules, registrations at home, Incoterms 2020, payment terms, invoices, packing list and customs checks.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Which documents an export shipment needs and who issues each: invoices, packing list, B/L or air waybill, certificate of origin, insurance, licences and L/C.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a commercial invoice must show for customs: core fields, US 19 CFR 141.86, EU, UK, Canada and Brazil rules, freight and value basis, samples and errors.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What an export packing list shows, how it must match the commercial invoice, bill of lading and VGM, and how customs, carriers and banks under UCP 600 use it.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Proforma vs commercial invoice: what each is for, when customs or banks refuse a proforma (19 CFR 141.91, UCP 600 Art. 18), free samples, and what must match.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
FOB, CIF and FCA compared: who pays freight and insurance, where risk passes, which suit containers and air, customs value, B/L and L/C checks, and pricing.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to find an HS code: the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI 1-6), GRI 3(b) sets, parts and accessories, national codes, binding rulings and HS 2028.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Cosmetics export rules by market: who notifies or registers in the EU, UK, US, Canada, Brazil, Japan, China and ASEAN, label languages, sunscreens, HS and DG.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
What Australia's packing declaration must say: the FCL/X and LCL forms (DAFF, December 2024), unacceptable packaging, timber and bamboo treatment, ISPM 15, the container cleanliness statement, annual declarations, letterhead, signature and the errors DAFF rejects.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a Vietnamese buyer needs before customs clearance: tax code, VNACCS account and digital signature, who files, the National Single Window and what to send.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
BMSB 2026-27 for Australia and New Zealand: season dates, target countries and goods, offshore vs onshore treatment, ethyl formate, AusTreat and containers.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How preferential rules of origin work: wholly obtained goods, CC/CTH/CTSH tariff shift, RVC build-down and build-up, de minimis, cumulation and proof of origin.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
House B/L vs master B/L: who issues and signs each, shipper and consignee on both, LCL consolidation, release, US AMS and ISF, EU ICS2 and letters of credit.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Bangladesh in 2026: customs duty up to 25% on the transaction value, regulatory and supplementary duty, VAT up to 15%, advance income tax and advance tax, the IRC, Bangladesh Bank L/C rules, ASYCUDA World, BSTI and SAFTA/APTA.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Pakistan in 2026: customs duty slabs on the CIF value, additional and regulatory duty, 18% sales tax, withholding income tax at import, the importer's NTN and PSW account, bank payment modes and PSQCA release orders.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Egypt in 2026: duty on the CIF value, 14% VAT on value plus duty, table tax, the ACID on every document, the importers' register, GOEIC factory registration (Decree 43/2016), NFSA food rules, Arabic labels and trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
In Indonesia the business number (NIB) issued through the OSS system serves as the importer identification number (API): API-U to trade the goods, API-P for a producer's own use. How it gives customs access, and the current rules under Permendag 16/2025 and PP 28/2025.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Before a Brazilian company can import, the Receita Federal must enable it in Siscomex (habilitação, often called RADAR). The three modalities under IN RFB 1.984/2020, the US$ 50,000 and US$ 150,000 limits per six months, how to apply in the Portal Único, and the 2025–2026 updates.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Mexico's importer register (Padrón de Importadores) run by SAT: active RFC, valid e.firma, tax compliance, a located fiscal address and a validated Buzón Tributario, the customs broker's patent number, and the sector-specific register for goods in Annex 10 of the foreign trade rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a Philippine importer needs before importing: Bureau of Customs accreditation through the Account Management Office, the Client Profile Registration System (CPRS) profile with STORED status, the documents on the official checklist, the processing fee and the three-year validity.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How TAREKS, Türkiye's risk-based control system for foreign trade, works for importers: company registration by an authorized official with e-signature, MERSIS matching, the one-time TAREKS undertaking, e-Devlet login, entering the shipment and the risk-based routing to document checks, physical inspection or testing.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What an imported food label needs in Saudi Arabia: SFDA.FD/GSO 9:2022 for prepackaged food, Arabic text, product name, ingredients, producer, country of origin, production and expiry dates written day-month-year, the nutrition label required since 1 October 2020, and stickers.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Food labeling for exports to Türkiye: the Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Food Labeling and Provision of Information to Consumers (2017, amended 2024), the importer's responsibility for label information, the permanent Turkish sticker before import controls, and the control certificate for animal and certain plant products.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
What processed food labels need in Indonesia under BPOM rules: Indonesian-language labels before arrival, the BPOM registration number, the importer's name and address, use-by date and production code, supplementary stickers, and the new Nutri-Level front-of-pack grade for beverages.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Food labels for Thailand under Ministry of Public Health Notification No. 450, which replaced Notification No. 367 and its amendments on 19 July 2024: Thai text with other languages optional, the food name, the food serial number and the importer's name and address, and who prepares or approves the label.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What imported food labels need in the Philippines under DOH Administrative Order No. 2014-0030: product name and brand, ingredients, net contents, manufacturer and Philippine importer with country of origin, lot, storage, expiry or use-by date and allergens, plus FDA product registration before import.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Brazil's nutrition labeling for packaged food under Anvisa RDC 429/2020 and IN 75/2020: Portuguese labels, the nutrition table with added sugars, and the front-of-pack magnifying glass "ALTO EM" for added sugar, saturated fat or sodium, with the limits per 100 g and 100 ml.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What imported food labels need in Australia and New Zealand under the Food Standards Code: English text, the supplier's name and address in Australia or New Zealand, Plain English Allergen Labelling (bold allergens and a "Contains" statement) mandatory since 25 February 2024, and Australia's separate country of origin labels.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What an imported food label needs in India under FSSAI rules: the importer's name and address in India, the FSSAI logo and the importer's licence number, the vegetarian or non-vegetarian symbol, country of origin, at least 60% shelf life (or three months before expiry, whichever is less) at import, and which label faults can be fixed in a bonded warehouse.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a food label needs in Mexico under NOM-051-SCFI/SSA1-2010: Spanish text, the importer's name and address, country of origin, lot and dates, the black "EXCESO" warning octagons, the caffeine and sweetener legends, and label checks at the border.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Vietnam label rules for imported goods and food under Decree 37/2026, in force 23 January 2026: origin wording such as "Made in" on the original label for customs, origin stickers before import, Vietnamese supplementary labels, and food dates and warnings.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What an imported food label needs in South Korea: a legible Korean label with product name, ingredients by weight, importer and manufacturer, use-by date, net content and country of origin, the 19 allergens, stickers that cannot be easily removed, and nutrition for listed foods.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a prepackaged food label needs for China under GB 7718-2025, in force on 16 March 2027: a Chinese label matching any foreign text, country of origin, the importer, agent or distributor registered in China, 8 mandatory allergen groups and year-month-day dates.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
What an imported food label needs in Japan: name, ingredients, additives, net content, date, storage, importer name and address, country of origin, nutrition with salt equivalent, and the 9 mandatory allergens, with cashew nut mandatory since 1 April 2026.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a prepacked food label needs in the UK: name, ingredients, net quantity, date mark, origin where required, a UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man address in Great Britain since 1 January 2024, NI or EU address in Northern Ireland, the 14 allergens and nutrition per 100 g.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a prepackaged food label needs in Canada under CFIA rules: English and French, common name at 1.6 mm, metric net quantity, "Imported by" dealer statement, priority allergens, best before date, Nutrition Facts table and the front-of-package symbol since 1 January 2026.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a prepacked food label needs in the EU under Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011: the 12 mandatory particulars, EU operator or importer, 1.2 mm minimum x-height, local language, the 14 allergens emphasised in the ingredients and the nutrition declaration.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a food label needs for the US under FDA rules: name and net quantity on the front panel in metric and US units, name and address, ingredients and Nutrition Facts on the information panel, English with any foreign language, the 9 major allergens and country of origin.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
When canned, jarred or bottled foods need FDA's extra registration: low-acid (pH above 4.6) and acidified foods, Form FDA 2541 within 10 days for an FCE number, process filings within 60 days with a SID, 3-year records, exclusions such as jams, and foreign processors.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How FDA's Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) works for food exported to the US: who the FSVP importer is, hazard analysis, audits, testing and record reviews, corrective actions, the 3-year re-evaluation, DUNS at entry, small importers and exemptions.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How FDA prior notice works for food shipped to the US: the 2, 4 and 8 hour minimums by road, rail, air and sea, the 15-day (PNSI) and 30-day (ACE) maximums, what the notice must contain, the PN confirmation number on mail and samples, and what happens if notice is missing or inadequate.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What to do when FDA detains an imported shipment: the Notice of FDA Action, the respond-by date, testimony through ITACS, reconditioning with Form FDA 766, and what an import refusal means: export or destroy within 90 days, no extensions, liquidated damages on the bond.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What toys, children's clothing and other products for children 12 and under need for the US: CPSC-accepted third-party testing, the Children's Product Certificate, permanent tracking labels, lead limits of 100 ppm and 90 ppm, 8 restricted phthalates and small parts rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How a UK duty deferment account works for imports into Great Britain: what can be deferred, the guarantee or waiver (UK-established businesses only), Direct Debit on the 16th of the next month, limits and suspension, Northern Ireland, and when postponed VAT accounting is enough.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What CBP Form 5106 is and how an importer of record gets a US importer number (IRS EIN, SSN or a CBP-assigned number), when numbers lapse, and the stricter checks CBP began on 18 September 2026: real physical addresses, the importer's own email and phone, direct broker powers of attorney and immediate voiding.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What exporters of clothing, bedding, furnishings and other textiles to Australia must put on care labels under the Consumer Goods (Care Labelling) Information Standard 2023: English instructions or ISO 3758 symbols, permanent labels and the exceptions, products covered and excluded, and penalties.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to label clothing and other textile products for Japan under the Household Goods Quality Labeling Act: designated fibre names, composition percentages and tolerances, JIS L 0001:2024 care symbols, the labeler's name and contact details, water-repellency claims and relabelling imported garments.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How exporters turn receivables into cash: forfaiting (without recourse, 180 days to seven years, avalised bills or letters of credit, 100% of face value at a discount) compared with export factoring (open account up to 180 days, 80-90% advances), with costs, sizes and when to use each.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to label clothing, bedding and other consumer textile articles for Canada: generic fibre names and percentages in English and French, the 5% rule, dealer identity by name and address or a CA identification number, permanent labels, linings and trims, tolerances and exempt articles.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to label clothing and other textiles for the EU under Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011: the 80% textile fibre rule, only Annex I fibre names, percentages by weight in descending order, 100%/pure/all, animal-origin parts, label durability, the local language, who is responsible and the 3% tolerance.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How the new EU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 replaces the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC from 20 January 2027: digital instructions, high-risk machinery that needs a notified body, AI and cyber-safety, importer labelling, 10-year records and what to do before the deadline.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What exporters of kitchenware, tableware, bottles and food packaging need for the EU: Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, good manufacturing practice, the plastics Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 with its migration limits and declaration of compliance, and the bisphenol A ban deadlines.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What exporters of hardwood plywood, MDF, particleboard and furniture or other finished goods made with them need for the US: TSCA Title VI emission limits, third-party certification, panel and finished-goods labels, the TSCA import certification, importer records and exempt products.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What foreign makers of vitamins, herbal and other dietary supplements must do to sell in the US: no FDA pre-approval, facility registration and prior notice, the 75-day new dietary ingredient notification, Supplement Facts labels, and structure/function claims with the 30-day notice and disclaimer.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What it takes to sell wine, beer or spirits into the US: the US importer's TTB basic permit, a COLA for every label, certificates of age and origin for Scotch, Cognac, Tequila and other products, FDA registration and prior notice, excise tax, state rules and the 2026 ban on some Canadian alcohol.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to ship frozen goods or samples with dry ice: UN1845 and Class 9 by air, the 200 kg per package limit, venting, package marks, the air waybill wording that replaces a Shipper's Declaration, the US 2.5 kg exception, sea and ground rules, and passengers.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
When goods you exported come back (unsold stock, rejected or returned by the buyer), how to re-import them without paying duty again: US HTSUS 9801.00.10, UK Returned Goods Relief and EU returned goods relief, the 3-year limit, the unaltered-state rule, VAT, and the evidence to keep.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to renew an FDA food facility registration in 2026: the 1 October to 31 December window, no fee, the DUNS number as unique facility identifier, US agent and emergency contact for foreign facilities, what happens if a registration expires, and updates within 60 days.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What FDA requires before medical devices can be imported into the US: establishment registration and device listing, the US agent, 510(k) or PMA by device class, the FY 2027 registration fee, initial importer duties, and the DEV, DFE, LST and PM# codes for the customs entry.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How the USMCA (CUSMA, T-MEC) certification of origin works: who can complete it, the nine minimum data elements, no prescribed form, the 12-month blanket period, four-year validity, the USD 2,500 and CAD 3,300 low-value thresholds, record keeping and post-importation claims.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) origin rules work: the 25 Contracting Parties, diagonal and full cumulation, the revised rules in force since 1 January 2025 (15% tolerance, duty drawback, non-manipulation), the 2025 transition, and EUR.1, EUR-MED and invoice declarations.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the EUR.1 and EUR-MED movement certificates are for under EU and UK trade agreements, who endorses them, the alternatives (origin declarations, statements on origin by REX exporters, importer's knowledge), retrospective certificates, duplicates, replacements and record keeping.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the A.TR movement certificate is for in EU-Türkiye trade: proof of free circulation (not origin) under the customs union, which goods qualify, which use EUR.1 instead, who signs and endorses it, the four-month validity, retrospective issue, duplicates and electronic A.TR with a QR code since 8 July 2024.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How the EU's customs special procedures work under the Union Customs Code: inward processing and outward processing, temporary admission (up to 24 months, 3% a month if partial relief), end-use, customs warehousing and free zones, with authorisation, guarantees and equivalent goods.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What liquidation of a US customs entry means under 19 CFR Part 159: the 1-year deadline after entry, deemed liquidation at the importer's declared amounts, extensions of up to 1 year each and the 4-year limit, notices posted on cbp.gov, and why the liquidation date starts the 180-day protest period.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How a US importer can disclose customs errors to CBP under 19 CFR 162.74 before a formal investigation: what the disclosure must contain, where to file, paying the loss of duties within 30 days, and how 19 U.S.C. 1592 penalties are reduced for fraud, gross negligence and negligence.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to protest a US Customs and Border Protection decision under 19 CFR Part 174: which decisions can be protested (value, classification, duties, liquidation, exclusion, drawback), who may file, the 180-day deadline, CBP Form 19 or ACE, required contents, review times and the Court of International Trade.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling products as organic in the EU from outside the EU: Regulation (EU) 2018/848, the three routes (trade agreements, 11 recognised equivalent countries, Commission-recognised control bodies), the electronic certificate of inspection (e-COI) in TRACES and what happens without it.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting food to Canada: who needs a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence, the non-resident importer rule, preventive controls and plans, the import information CFIA needs, traceability one step back and forward, and the main exceptions.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting food, plant or animal products to Australia: how BICON shows whether goods are permitted and what they need (permits, treatments, documents, tests), import permit processing times of 20 or 40 business days, IFIS food inspection, and what happens to goods that arrive without a required permit.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting clothing or home textiles to the US: what the FTC's Textile and Wool Acts require on the label (generic fiber names and percentages, the 5% rule, 3% tolerance, country of origin, company name or RN), where the label goes, online disclosures and the permanent care label.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR, Regulation (EU) 2024/1781) means for apparel, footwear and other exporters: the ban on destroying unsold clothes and shoes from 19 July 2026, disclosure from February 2027, the working plan with textiles and steel, and the Digital Product Passport.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
When FDA puts a firm or product on an import alert: what detention without physical examination (DWPE) means, the red, yellow and green lists, how firms are placed, how to petition for removal and whom to contact.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How US LTL freight class works after NMFC Docket 2025-1 (effective 19 July 2025): the 13-step density scale from class 400 to class 50, how to calculate pounds per cubic foot for a pallet, and why carriers reclassify shipments.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting food or other products labelled halal to Malaysia: the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 halal orders, when halal certification is mandatory (meat and other animal products), JAKIM-recognised foreign halal certification bodies, DVS and MAQIS import permits, MS 1500:2009 and halal labelling.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting animal products or high-risk food and feed to Great Britain from outside the EU: approved countries and establishments, BTOM low, medium and high risk categories, health certificates, IPAFFS pre-notification at least one working day ahead, CHED references on CDS, border control post checks and the Common User Charge.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Importing wood, paper, furniture or other plant products into the US: when a Lacey Act declaration is needed, the data it requires (genus and species, country of harvest, quantity in metric units), filing in ACE, LAWGS or on PPQ Form 505, the 5% and 2.9 kg de minimis rule and other exemptions.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting food to South Korea: the Special Act on Imported Food Safety Management, registering the overseas manufacturing facility at least 7 days before the import declaration, livestock products from approved facilities, document, field, laboratory and random sampling inspections, and inspection orders.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting food, food additives, kitchenware, food packaging or infant toys to Japan: the importer's notification to an MHLW quarantine station under Article 27 of the Food Sanitation Act, the documents, inspections, the sealed notification Customs checks, and personal-use exceptions.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling electrical and electronic equipment to the EU: who counts as the producer under the WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU, registration in each Member State where you sell, the authorised representative for distance sellers, the open scope since 15 August 2018 and the six categories.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting toys to the EU: the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC and its CE marking, self-verification or EC-type examination, chemical limits (CMR substances, 19 heavy elements, 55 allergenic fragrances) and the new Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 with digital product passports from 1 August 2030.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Selling appliances or other energy-labelled products in the EU: who the supplier is (EU manufacturer, importer or authorised representative), EPREL registration before placing a model on the market, the A-G label and QR code, product information sheets and 15-year records.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Importing consumer products into the US: CPSC's certificate rule (16 CFR part 1110) requires certificate data to be eFiled with CBP from 8 July 2026 (8 January 2027 for FTZ goods), the General Certificate of Conformity vs the Children's Product Certificate, the 7 required elements and who certifies.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Which certification electrical and electronic products need in 12 major markets: FCC, CE and RED cybersecurity, UKCA, CCC, PSE and Giteki, KC, BIS, SNI and SDPPI, ANATEL, RCM, ISED and SABER, who must apply locally and which routes allow self-declaration.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling connected hardware or software in the EU: the Cyber Resilience Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/2847), products with digital elements, important and critical products, the 24-hour, 72-hour and 14-day reporting duties since 11 September 2026, importers' checks and full application on 11 December 2027.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling connected radio equipment in the EU: the cybersecurity requirements of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 under the Radio Equipment Directive, applying since 1 August 2025, the EN 18031-1, -2 and -3 standards, their restrictions and when a notified body is needed.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling phones, earbuds, cameras or laptops in the EU: the USB-C common charger rules of Directive (EU) 2022/2380 under the Radio Equipment Directive, the devices covered, the 28 December 2024 and 28 April 2026 dates, unbundled chargers and the pictogram and charging label.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling phones, routers or other telecom devices in Indonesia: certification under Permenkominfo No. 3 of 2024, who can apply, testing per brand, type and country of origin, the 3-year production window, the label with PLG ID and QR code, and exemptions.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or cellular devices in Canada: ISED Category I certification by a recognized Certification Body (TAC and REL listing), Category II SDoC for interference-causing equipment, terminal equipment registration and RSS-Gen labelling rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling electrical or electronic products in Australia: the Regulatory Compliance Mark, EESS responsible supplier registration and Level 1, 2 and 3 equipment, ACMA's five supplier steps and the RCM labelling rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling phones, routers, drones or other telecom products in Brazil: ANATEL homologation under Resolution 715/2019, certification by a designated certification body (OCD) or a declaration of conformity, who can apply, the Anatel seal and marketplace liability.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What EU AEO status is: AEOC for customs simplifications and AEOS for security and safety, the Article 39 UCC criteria, the benefits, where to apply and the 8 mutual recognition partners, including the US, China, Japan, Canada and the UK.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
When imports into Japan are free of customs duty and consumption tax: the 10,000 yen customs value rule per declaration or parcel, the goods excluded from it, and the low-value goods tax from 1 April 2028.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Selling wireless products such as cellular phones in Japan: the Radio Act's technical regulations conformity certification, construction design attestation, self-confirmation, registered bodies and the MRAs with the EU, US, UK and Singapore.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How non-EU manufacturers CE-mark products for the EU: directives and harmonised standards, notified bodies, testing, technical documentation, the EU declaration of conformity and importer checks.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How many HSN digits Indian GST invoices need since 1 April 2021 (4 on B2B invoices up to ₹5 crore turnover, 6 above), and how HSN relates to the HS code and India's 8-digit tariff items.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How Türkiye's 12-digit GTİP and Mercosur's 8-digit NCM build on the 6-digit HS code: what each digit means, where to look them up, Turkish binding tariff information and the cost of a wrong NCM.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How mandatory SNI works for products exported to Indonesia: BSN's list, LSPro certification, testing in Indonesian labs, the SPPT-SNI, the NPB under the SNI mark and SDPPI for telecom.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How the KC mark works for products sold in South Korea: KATS safety certification and safety confirmation, RRA radio and EMC certification and registration, Korean standards and the KC label.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How China Compulsory Certification (CCC) works for imported products: CNCA scope, type testing in China, factory inspection, follow-up audits, five-year certificates, the CCC mark and exemptions.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Since 22 November 2025 SWIFT cross-border payments use ISO 20022 pacs.008 instead of MT103: what exporters should ask buyers for as payment proof, UETR tracking and address data.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Letter of credit types under UCP 600: irrevocable by default, sight payment, deferred payment, acceptance, negotiation, confirmed and transferable credits, with the 21-day presentation rule.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How US foreign-trade zones work: duty deferral, no duty on re-exports, inverted tariff relief, weekly entry, scrap savings, the FTZ Board and CBP, and privileged foreign status for special tariffs.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
FCL vs LCL sea freight explained: how LCL consolidation at a CFS works, W/M pricing (1 CBM = 1 tonne), where FCL starts to beat LCL, extra transit time, CFS charges and damage risk.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What California's Proposition 65 means for products sold in the US: 800+ listed chemicals, clear and reasonable warnings, the 2025 short-form label change, the 2028 deadline and penalties.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Which FCC authorization your electronic product needs for the US: Certification with an FCC ID through a TCB for wireless devices, or a Supplier's Declaration of Conformity, plus labels and tests.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What exporters must know about EU chemical rules: REACH Candidate List SVHCs (253 since February 2026) above 0.1% in articles, SCIP notifications, and the 10 RoHS substances in electronics.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How US duty drawback refunds up to 99% of duties, taxes and fees on imports later exported or destroyed: manufacturing, unused and rejected goods, the 5-year limit, ACE filing and USMCA limits.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What export credit insurance covers (buyer insolvency, slow payment, war, currency inconvertibility), typical cover of 90–95% short term and 85% medium term, costs, and use with open account.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The difference between a standby letter of credit (SBLC) and a demand guarantee: which rules apply (ISP98, UCP 600, URDG 758), where each is used, demands, examination time and confirmation.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How a bonded or customs warehouse lets importers store goods without paying duty yet: US classes, the 5-year limit and withdrawal rate, EU customs warehousing with no time limit, and re-export.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How customs decides the value for duty under the WTO Valuation Agreement: transaction value, what is added (assists, royalties, packing, commissions), related parties, and the 6 methods in order.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to pack and secure cargo in a container under the IMO/ILO/UNECE CTU Code: who does what, weight distribution, payload limits, securing, ISPM 15 dunnage, pest checks and VGM.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the 4-character ISO 6346 size and type code on a container means: 22G1, 42G1, 45G1, 22R1, 45R1, 22U1, 22T1, L5G1, plus how the container number with owner code and check digit is built.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
How UK exporters zero rate goods sent outside the UK under HMRC VAT Notice 703: direct vs indirect exports, the 3-month limit, official and commercial evidence, ex works risk and records.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Why your HS code has 6, 8 or 10 digits: the international HS, the US HTS and Schedule B, the EU Combined Nomenclature and TARIC, UK commodity codes, and which one goes on each document.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Who to name as consignee and notify party on a bill of lading, straight vs 'to order' bills, which one needs endorsement, why the notify party has no rights to the cargo, and changing details.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Why carriers ask for a letter of indemnity when the original bill of lading is late, the risks for carrier, buyer and exporter, P&I cover, bank countersignature and the standard forms.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a bill of exchange is, who is drawer, drawee and payee, sight vs usance tenor, amount in words and figures, and the rules for drafts under letters of credit (UCP 600) and collections.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How a documentary collection works under ICC URC 522: the five parties, D/P vs D/A, what banks check, the collection instruction, and what happens when the importer does not pay.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The US UFLPA presumption for Xinjiang and listed entities, its high-priority sectors, the EU forced labour ban from 14 December 2027 and Canada's tariff item 9897.00.00, for exporters.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the EU Batteries Regulation means for exporters: producer registration since August 2025, labels from 18 August 2026 at the earliest, QR code, battery passport and removable batteries from February 2027.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Selling electrical products in Japan: diamond PSE (116 specified items) and round PSE (341 items), the importer's notification to METI, and the December 2025 rules for overseas online sellers.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling online to consumers in Brazil: since May 2026 no federal import tax on purchases up to USD 50 from Remessa Conforme platforms, confirmed by law in September 2026; ICMS still applies.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
How to get a legally binding HS code decision before you ship: EU BTI (3 years, free), UK Advance Tariff Rulings (30 to 120 days), US CBP rulings via eRulings, Canada advance rulings and Japan.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the extra lines on a sea freight quote mean: bunker (BAF/MFR), low sulphur (IMO 2020), terminal handling (THC), peak season (PSS), rate increases (GRI) and the EU ETS surcharge.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How exporters screen buyers, banks and ships against sanctions lists: OFAC SDN and the 50% rule, the UK Sanctions List (sole UK list since 28 January 2026), EU tools and the UN list.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
General average under the York-Antwerp Rules 2016: why every cargo owner shares the cost of saving the ship, the bond, guarantee or cash deposit to release cargo, and insurance.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How much a carrier pays for lost or damaged cargo: Hague-Visby 666.67 SDR per package or 2 SDR per kg, US COGSA USD 500 per package, Montreal 26 SDR per kg by air, CMR 8.33 SDR per kg by road.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Which certificate of origin each ASEAN free trade agreement uses: Form D (ATIGA), Form E (China), AK (Korea), AJ (Japan), AI (India), AANZ, AHK, RCEP, and ATIGA self-certification.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Food, animal products and plants entering the EU: border control posts, the four CHED types, prior notice in TRACES a working day ahead, and the high-risk list of Regulation 2019/1793.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a Certificate of Free Sale is, why importing countries ask for it, FDA export certificates and fees, UK certificates (MHRA for medical devices) and legalisation.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Great Britain recognises CE marking for 21 product regulations, such as toys, radio equipment, machinery and RoHS: the sectors with their own rules, UKCA marking rules and Northern Ireland.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The new EU Generalised Scheme of Preferences applies from 1 January 2027 to 2036: Standard GSP, GSP+ and EBA, what changes, the transition periods, and why REX and the origin rules stay the same.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme: the three tiers, the origin declaration any exporter can make, Form A, claims within 2 years and the rules of origin changes from 1 January 2026.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
UK CBAM starts on 1 January 2027 for aluminium, cement, fertiliser, hydrogen, iron and steel: who is the importer, the £50,000 threshold, emissions data and records.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Shipping to Great Britain: the S&S GB entry summary declaration, required for EU goods since 31 January 2025, time limits by mode, the reduced dataset, exemptions, and ICS2 for Northern Ireland.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
EU ICS2 in 2026: who files the entry summary declaration (ENS), deadlines by sea, air, road and rail, the 6-digit HS code, goods descriptions and the stop words list from 3 August 2026.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Italy in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 22% (10%, 5% or 4% for listed goods), IT EORI numbers based on the VAT number, consumer information at least in Italian under the Consumer Code and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Poland in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 23% (8% and 5% for listed goods), settling import VAT in the VAT return under article 33a of the VAT Act through a customs representative or with AEO status, EORI through PUESC and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Portugal in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 23%, 13% or 6% on the mainland (lower in Madeira and the Azores), paying import VAT through the periodic VAT return under article 27(8) of the VAT Code, PT EORI numbers and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Austria in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 20% (10%, 13%, and 4.9% on basic foods such as bread, butter, eggs and milk), booking import VAT on the tax account under section 26(3) UStG instead of paying customs, EORI through the Portal Zoll and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Finland in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 25.5% (13.5% for groceries and books since 1 January 2026, 10% for newspapers), VAT-registered importers reporting import VAT to the Tax Administration instead of Finnish Customs, FI EORI numbers, form 730 for foreign companies and the Åland tax border.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Sweden in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 25% (12% or 6%, and 6% on food since 1 April 2026), VAT-registered importers reporting import VAT in the VAT return instead of paying Swedish Customs, the taxable amount, free SE EORI numbers and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Belgium in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 21%, 12%, 6% or 0%, the ET 14.000 licence that shifts import VAT to the periodic VAT return, free EORI numbers from Belgian customs, the EUR 3 parcel duty and packaging duties with Fost Plus and Val-I-Pac.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Ireland in 2026: EU duty from TARIC on cost plus transport and insurance to the EU, import VAT of 23% (13.5%, 9%, 4.8% or 0% for listed goods), postponed accounting on the VAT3 return since 2021, IE EORI numbers through ROS, the EUR 3 parcel duty and Northern Ireland.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to avoid paying import VAT at the border in Europe: UK postponed VAT accounting, Irish postponed accounting, French autoliquidation, the Dutch Article 23 permit, the Belgian ET 14.000 licence, Spanish deferral to modelo 303, Swedish and Finnish VAT returns, Austrian tax account booking, the Portuguese VAT return option, Polish article 33a and German deferment accounts, compared country by country.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to the Netherlands in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 21% or 9% charged by Dutch Customs on the value including duties, the Article 23 permit that moves import VAT to the VAT return, EORI and customs declarations, excise and import licences, and the Verpact packaging contribution.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Spain in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 21% (reduced 10%, 4% and 0%), deferring import VAT to the modelo 303 return, EORI numbers from the tax agency AEAT, the Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla outside Spanish VAT, Spanish-language labels and the ENV packaging producer register.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to France in 2026: EU duty from TARIC, import VAT of 20%, 10%, 5.5% or 2.1%, automatic self-assessment (autoliquidation) of import VAT on the CA3 return, free EORI numbers through SOPRANO, French-language labelling under the Toubon law, the REP unique identifier (IDU) and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Germany in 2026: EU duty from TARIC on the value up to the EU border, 19% or 7% import VAT collected by German Customs and deductible as input tax, free EORI numbers, LUCID packaging registration, WEEE and battery registration with stiftung ear, coffee tax and the EUR 3 parcel duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Nigeria in 2026: the ECOWAS common external tariff of 0% to 35%, the 7% surcharge, ETLS and CISS levies, 7.5% VAT on CIF plus duties, Form M on the Nigeria Single Window, the PAAR, SONCAP or NAFDAC certificates, the CCVO and other documents.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Hong Kong in 2026: a free port with no customs tariff and no VAT or GST, excise duty only on liquor, tobacco, hydrocarbon oil and methyl alcohol, import declarations within 14 days, declaration charges capped at HK$200, licences for strategic commodities and re-exports to the Chinese mainland.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Kenya in 2026: EAC common external tariff of 0%, 10%, 25% or 35% on the CIF value, the Import Declaration Fee and Railway Development Levy, 16% VAT on value plus duty and taxes, excise, PVoC certificates of conformity, the ISM mark and clearing agents.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Norway in 2026: customs value including shipping and insurance, customs duty mainly on foodstuffs and textiles, 25% import VAT (15% on food) on value plus duty and taxes, excise duties, TVINN declarations through a forwarding agent, import VAT in the VAT return, and the VOEC scheme for low-value sales.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Peru in 2026: ad valorem duty of 0%, 6% or 11% on the CIF value, 16% IGV plus 2% IPM on value plus duty, ISC excise, the IGV perception of 3.5%, 5% or 10%, SUNAT documents, DIGESA and SENASA approvals, front-of-pack food warnings and the US-Peru TPA.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Colombia in 2026: duty on the CIF customs value in three main levels, 19% IVA on customs value plus duty, the importer's NIT, RUT and VUCE registration, customs brokers above USD 1,000, the 48-hour advance declaration, INVIMA and ICA permits, Spanish labels and the US-Colombia TPA.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Chile in 2026: the general 6% duty on the CIF value, 19% IVA on CIF plus duty, extra taxes on luxury goods, alcohol and tobacco, the customs agent rule above USD 1,000, documents, Chile's 33 trade agreements, SAG certificates and IVA on online sales up to USD 500.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to New Zealand in 2026: customs duty on the FOB value at mostly 0% to 10%, 15% GST on value plus duty, freight and insurance, the NZ$1,000 limit, the Trade Single Window and client code, the April 2026 goods levies, MPI biosecurity and free trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Switzerland in 2026: no customs duty on industrial goods since 1 January 2024, duties by weight on farm goods, 8.1% import VAT on value plus transport to destination, the CHF 5 small-amount rule, the CHF 100,000 mail-order rule, platform taxation and proof of origin.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to South Africa in 2026: customs duty on the FOB value under the SACU tariff, 15% import VAT with the 10% uplift, the SARS importer code and documents, DA59 origin declarations, ITAC import permits, NRCS letters of authority and trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Saudi Arabia in 2026: the GCC tariff of at least 5% on the CIF value, 2026 food duty changes, 15% import VAT, FASAH clearance 48 hours before arrival, SABER and SFDA approvals, invoice certification and labels.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to the United Arab Emirates in 2026: the 5% GCC customs duty on the CIF value and 5% VAT, the importer's Dubai Customs business code, documents and invoice attestation for invoices of AED 10,000 or more, Montaji and MoIAT rules for regulated goods, labels, free zones and the UAE's CEPA trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to the Philippines in 2026: duty on the dutiable value under the WTO Valuation Agreement, 12% VAT on the value plus duties, excise and other charges, the PHP 10,000 de minimis, BOC importer accreditation, regulatory permits (FDA, DTI-BPS and others) and the Philippines' trade agreements including RCEP.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Indonesia in 2026: duty on the CIF value, import VAT of 12% with an effective 11% for non-luxury goods (PMK 131/2024), the PPh 22 import income tax, the importer's NIB and API under Permendag 16/2025, import approvals for restricted goods, BPOM, SNI and halal rules with the deadlines moved to October 2028, low-value consignments above FOB USD 3 and Indonesia's trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Exporting to Thailand in 2026: duty on the CIF value, 7% VAT on the value plus duty and excise, the end of the THB 1,500 duty exemption for low-value imports from 1 January 2026, planned duty increases on consumer goods, Thai FDA and TISI rules, and Thailand's trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40 means for non-EU exporters: the rules that apply from 12 August 2026 (heavy metals, PFAS limits for food-contact packaging, declaration of conformity, manufacturer marking, authorised representative for EPR), the 2028 labels and the 2030 recyclability, recycled content and empty space rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Exporting to Malaysia in 2026: duty on the CIF value, sales tax of 5% or 10% on the value plus duty and excise after the July 2025 SST expansion, the 10% sales tax on low-value goods of RM500 or less sold online, and Malaysia's 19 trade agreements including RCEP, the CPTPP and the UAE CEPA.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Singapore in 2026: no customs duty except on liquor, tobacco, motor vehicles and petroleum products, 9% GST on the CIF value, the importer's UEN, customs account and TradeNet permit before import, SFA food licences and registrations, HSA rules for cosmetics, and GST on low-value goods of S$400 or less.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Türkiye (Turkey) in 2026: customs value to the Turkish border, how customs duty, additional customs duties (İGV) on non-FTA origins and 20% KDV are calculated, the EU customs union and 24 FTAs, TAREKS product safety checks under the 2026 communiqués, documents, and the end of simplified e-commerce entries from 6 February 2026.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How Egypt's Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system works in 2026: the 19-digit ACID number requested by the Egyptian importer in Nafeza, the exporter's one-time CargoX registration and document upload, which documents must show the ACID, deadlines for sea and air cargo (mandatory since 1 January 2026), and what happens without it.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
A 2026 comparison of import taxes in 32 markets: whether duty is charged on a CIF or FOB value, the import VAT or GST rate, and low-value parcel rules in the US, EU, UK, Japan, China, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, South Africa, Switzerland, New Zealand, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Norway, Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to South Korea in 2026: customs value on a CIF basis, how duty and 10% VAT are calculated, the importer's customs declaration options, food facility registration with MFDS at least 7 days before import, KC certification, low-value personal parcels (USD 150, or USD 200 from the US) and Korea's free trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Brazil in 2026: the importer's RADAR registration, the product catalogue and DUIMP in the Portal Único, NCM codes, how II, IPI, PIS/COFINS-Importação, ICMS and the 8% AFRMM on sea freight add up, the tax reform (CBS and IBS), and Mercosur and EU–Mercosur preferences.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to India in 2026: how basic customs duty, the 10% Social Welfare Surcharge and IGST (5%, 18% or 40% since 22 September 2025) are calculated on the CIF assessable value, the importer's IEC and bill of entry, BIS and FSSAI rules, Legal Metrology labels, and India's trade agreements including the UK CETA (15 July 2026).
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Vietnam in 2026: customs value on a CIF basis, how import duty and VAT (8% for most goods until 31 December 2026, otherwise 10%) are calculated, low-value express parcels, original labels and Vietnamese sub-labels under Decree 37/2026/ND-CP, the 2026 customs procedure changes and Vietnam's 17 free trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The difference between a freight forwarder, a customs broker and an NVOCC: who books transport, who files customs declarations, who issues the house bill of lading, US licensing and FMC bonds, EU direct and indirect representation, and which one you need under each Incoterms rule.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Mexico in 2026: the tariff increases of up to 50% for countries without a trade agreement, how IGI duty and 16% IVA are calculated, the importer's Padrón de Importadores and pedimento, Spanish labels under the NOMs, and Mexico's trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Australia in 2026: customs value without freight, how duty and 10% GST are calculated, the A$1,000 import declaration threshold and GST on low-value goods, import processing charges, biosecurity (BICON, packing and timber rules), product rules and Australia's free trade agreements.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to Canada in 2026: how duty and 5% GST are calculated, the importer's BN, RM account and CARM registration, release prior to payment, bilingual labels, food and cosmetics rules, CUSMA and other agreements, low-value thresholds and the counter-tariffs on US goods.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
When a US export needs Electronic Export Information (EEI) in the Automated Export System (AES): the USD 2,500 per Schedule B rule, licence cases, Canada, filing deadlines by vessel, air, truck and rail, the ITN on the bill of lading, routed exports and penalties.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the US Importer Security Filing (ISF, 10+2) requires for ocean cargo: who files, the 10 data elements (seller, buyer, manufacturer, ship-to, origin, 6-digit HTS, stuffing location, consolidator and more), the deadline of 24 hours before loading, ISF-5, the ISF bond and USD 5,000 liquidated damages, and what exporters must send their US buyer.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
A step-by-step guide to selling goods into Japan: CIF customs value, duty and 10% or 8% consumption tax, who imports, food notification under the Food Sanitation Act, PSE for electrical goods, cosmetics, EPAs and origin, and the low-value import change from 1 April 2028.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What anti-dumping and countervailing duties are under WTO rules, why rates are set per producer and country, the EU invoice declaration and TARIC additional codes, the US cash deposits and retrospective final duties, five-year expiry reviews, and how exporters check and avoid surprises.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The nine UN classes of dangerous goods and their divisions, packing groups I-III, UN numbers and proper shipping names, which rules apply by road, rail, sea and air (ADR, RID, IMDG Code, IATA DGR), the IMDG Code changes in force since 2026, and everyday products exporters often miss.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) is, which of 97 countries apply it (the UK and India do not), when it governs your export sale, how offers, conformity, risk, remedies and force majeure work, and how to exclude it or combine it with Incoterms.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The WCO's HS 2028 amendments: 299 sets of changes, new and deleted headings and subheadings, the public health and environment themes (vaccines, dietary supplements, plastic waste), the timeline to 1 January 2028, correlation tables and what exporters and importers should check.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
When export documents need an apostille or consular legalization, what the 1961 Apostille Convention covers and excludes (commercial and customs documents), recent members such as China, Canada, Bangladesh, Algeria and Vietnam, and how to prepare certificates and invoices for countries that still require legalization.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What an ATA carnet is, what it covers (commercial samples, professional equipment, exhibitions), what it does not cover, the one-year validity, about 80 countries, who issues it, how it is used at each border, and the move to digital carnets.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) requires from manufacturers and sellers outside the EU since 13 December 2024: an economic operator in the EU, product and contact information on the label, what online listings must show, marketplaces and records.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
What the Registered Exporter (REX) system is, who must register, the EUR 6,000 rule, the exact text of the GSP statement on origin, the REX number format, origin criteria P and W, and the FTAs where EU exporters use REX.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a safety data sheet (SDS, formerly MSDS) is under the GHS, its 16 sections, what Section 14 transport information must show, why carriers ask for it, and how it relates to dangerous goods declarations for air and sea.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What a phytosanitary certificate is under the IPPC and ISPM 12, which exports need one, who issues it, what it contains, re-export certificates, ePhyto, and the mistakes that get plant products held at the border.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What Institute Cargo Clauses (A), (B) and (C) 2009 cover and exclude, warehouse-to-warehouse duration, the 110% insured value, what CIF and CIP require under Incoterms 2020 and what a bank checks on an insurance document under UCP 600.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What an air waybill is under the Montreal Convention, the 11-digit AWB number and its check digit, master vs house air waybills, why an AWB is not a document of title, and what to check on an AWB under a letter of credit.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the VGM is, who must declare it under SOLAS chapter VI regulation 2, how Method 1 and Method 2 work, a calculation example, signatures and deadlines, national tolerances, and how the VGM differs from the gross weight on the bill of lading.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Indonesia's mandatory halal certification for imported food, beverages and cosmetics, with the deadlines moved from October 2026 to October 2028: legal basis, later deadlines, foreign halal certificates registered in SIHALAL, the import check under BPJPH Regulation 4/2026, the halal logo and NON HALAL labels, and what to send your importer.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
What the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) means for exporters of coffee, cocoa, palm oil, rubber, soya, wood and cattle products: the 30 December 2026 and 30 June 2027 dates, deforestation-free and legality rules, geolocation, due diligence statements and what EU buyers will ask you for.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism means for steel, aluminium, cement, fertiliser and hydrogen exporters in 2026: covered goods, the 50-tonne threshold, authorised declarants, certificates from February 2027, the 30 September 2027 declaration and what non-EU producers should prepare.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
How customs value and import duty are calculated: transaction value, whether freight and insurance are added (EU, UK, Japan) or left out (US, Canada, Australia), a worked example, import VAT and GST, and what the Incoterms rule changes.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What demurrage, detention, combined free time and storage mean for containers, when the clock starts and stops, how to calculate the charges with an example, US FMC billing rules (46 CFR 541) and how to dispute an invoice.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What "commercial invoice in triplicate", "in duplicate" and "full set 3/3" mean, how many originals and copies a letter of credit needs under UCP 600, and how to mark originals.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to get back IEEPA tariffs paid in 2025–2026: who can claim, filing CAPE declarations in ACE, Phase 3 (opened 6 October 2026), the class action, liquidated entries and deadlines.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Export cosmetics to Mexico: no registro sanitario, the importer's COFEPRIS notice, NOM-141 Spanish labels, banned substances, customs checks, IGI and IVA.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Export cosmetics to Saudi Arabia: SFDA classification, Ghad listing by a Saudi company, GSO 1943 rules, Arabic labels, FASEH CoC, invoice, duty and 15% VAT.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Check a B/L draft before issue: parties, ports, goods, marks, weights, freight terms, on-board date, UCP 600 credit rules, US manifest and ISF, EU ICS2 data.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
What changed from Incoterms 2010 to 2020: DAT became DPU, CIP needs all-risks cover, FCA on-board bill of lading, own transport, security and costs, and which edition applies.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Which Incoterms 2020 rules to use for air shipments: why FOB and CIF are for sea only, how to write FCA, CPT, CIP and DAP with a place, insurance, payment and pricing.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
DDP or DAP? What each rule makes the seller do and pay, who can be importer in the US, EU and UK, import VAT, IOSS and parcels, pricing and the invoice.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to export to the USA in 2026: HTS code and duties, importer of record and bond, ISF, invoice and origin marking, FDA food and cosmetics rules, DDP or DAP.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to the EU from outside it: EORI, who imports, CIF customs value and TARIC duty, import VAT and IOSS, the EUR 3 parcel duty, origin and product rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to the UK after Brexit: GB vs Northern Ireland, GB EORI, who imports, UK Global Tariff and customs value, import VAT, FTA and DCTS origin, cosmetics.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Export to mainland China: who imports, ordinary trade vs cross-border e-commerce, GACC food registration, NMPA cosmetics, RCEP and Form E, ISPM 15, documents.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting to ASEAN: local importers, cosmetic notification in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, RCEP and C/Os.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
How to export to Saudi Arabia and the UAE: SABER PCoC and SCoC, FASAH, SFDA, the UAE MoIAT certificate, Dubai Montaji, Arabic labels, 5% duty and documents.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How import customs clearance works: importer of record, EORI and US bond, broker documents, HS code and value, duty and VAT, holds, refunds and de minimis.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How an L/C works for exporters: the parties, proforma to issued credit, checks and amendments, shipment and presentation deadlines, examination and payment.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Incoterms 2020 mistakes exporters make most: FOB or CIF for containers, EXW and DDP traps, vague places, weak insurance, and invoice, B/L and L/C mismatches.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to classify cosmetics under HS 2022: Chapter 33 headings 3303 to 3307, cleansers in 3401, sheet masks, brushes, kits, medicaments, US codes and rulings.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to get a certificate of origin: chamber C/Os, FTA certificates vs self-certification, legalisation, e-COs, and steps in Korea, China, India and Japan.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to ship perfume (UN1266), aerosols (UN1950) and nail polish: flash point, SDS Section 14, IATA and IMDG limited quantities, couriers and the UPU mail ban.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Selling cosmetics in Great Britain in 2026: UK Responsible Person, free SCPN notification, safety report, labels, new GB bans, Northern Ireland, duty and VAT.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exporting cosmetics to Canada: the CNF within 10 days of first sale, Hotlist, bilingual INCI labels, 2026 fragrance allergen rules, DIN/NPN, CARM and duty.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Export cosmetics to Brazil: ANVISA Grade 1 and 2, notification or registration, the AFE holder, Portuguese labels, DUIMP import clearance and import taxes.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to check if US Section 301 or 232 tariffs apply to your product in 2026: HTS chapter 99 codes, China lists, metal rules, origin and melt-and-pour data.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Exporting cosmetics to Australia: AICIS importer registration, ingredient checks, the 2026 retinal rule, labels, TGA sunscreen limits, duty, GST and NZ.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Hong Kong: no registration, Cap. 456 safety duty, English and Chinese warnings, drug-type products, 14-day TDEC, re-export to China.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Taiwan in 2026: TFDA product registration by a local importer, a PIF for every product since July 2026, GMP proof, Chinese labels, customs.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to the UAE: MoIAT conformity certificate, Dubai Municipality Montaji registration, who applies, documents, Arabic labels, EDE and customs.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Singapore: who notifies HSA in PRISM, S$13 or S$28 fee, yearly re-notification, English labels, June 2026 annex update, GST and re-export.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Cambodia: who files the Ministry of Health notification, Sub-Decree 122, documents, Khmer labels, customs and the closed Thai land border.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Malaysia: who files the NPRA notification in QUEST3+, RM 50 fee, 2-year validity, Malay or English labels, 2026 ingredient updates, halal.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to the Philippines: who files the FDA notification (CPN), fees, validity, English or Filipino labels, ASEAN annexes, customs and online sales.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
How to check if your product is a controlled dual-use item: ECCN and EAR99, EU Annex I, UK, Korean, Japanese and Chinese lists, party screening and licences.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Indonesia: who files the BPOM notification, fees and validity, Bahasa Indonesia labels, the halal deadline Indonesia moved from October 2026 to October 2028, and SKI permits.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Export cosmetics to Thailand: who files the Thai FDA notification, place-of-import inspection, fees, 3-year validity, Thai labels, ingredient lists and LPI.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
When India requires BIS certification, how foreign makers get an ISI mark licence (FMCS) or CRS R-number, AIR role, 2025-2026 QCO changes and customs checks.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
What an EORI number is, who needs one in the EU and UK (GB and XI), when non-EU sellers do, format, how to apply and check it, and where it goes on documents.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
When goods need a "Made in" mark: US 19 CFR 134 rules and the 10% duty, EU and UK food rules, China, Korea, Japan, India, Saudi Arabia, wording and cartons.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Which countries need a certificate of conformity (CoC) before you ship: Kenya PVoC, Nigeria SONCAP, Tanzania, Uganda, Iraq. Routes A, B, C, fees and penalties.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
T/T in advance, 30% deposit and 70% against copy B/L, L/C, D/P, D/A and open account compared: who bears the risk, how each works and the wording for a proforma.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Plywood, OSB and particle board are exempt from ISPM 15, but solid-wood pallets and crates need HT or MB treatment and the IPPC stamp. What each mark means, approved treatments, and US, EU, Australia and China rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to China in 2026: NMPA filing or special registration, domestic responsible person, safety assessment, animal testing, labels, customs, CBEC.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Who can be importer of record (IOR), what a non-resident importer needs in the US (IOR number, bond, agent), EU and UK rules for DDP, and exporter of record.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
How to ship lithium batteries in 2026 by air, courier, sea or post: UN3480 vs UN3481, Section II, the 30% charge rule, UN38.3 test summary, marks and labels.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Mark the invoice “No commercial value, value for customs purposes only” but still declare a realistic value: how to ship product samples abroad, nominal values, wine samples, duty-free rules in the US, EU and UK, and ATA carnets.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
How to get an IEC from DGFT (fee INR 500), register your AD code on ICEGATE, file a GST LUT, get an RCMC and realise export proceeds on time under 2026 rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
RCEP parties and applicants in 2026, rules of origin (CTH, RVC 40%, cumulation, de minimis), Form RCEP or declaration of origin, tariff rates and records.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
When you need a US customs bond, single entry vs continuous, how CBP sets the amount (10% rule, USD 50,000 minimum), ISF bonds and insufficient bond notices.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Original B/L 3/3, telex release (surrendered B/L), sea waybill, house vs master and straight vs to order bills, and which is safe on T/T, copy B/L, L/C or D/P.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Food exports to China in 2026: GACC CIFER registration under Decree 280 (replaced 248), importer/exporter filing, Chinese labels (GB 7718), certificates, CBEC.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
How to get a SABER (SASO) certificate for Saudi Arabia: PCoC for regulated products, SCoC for each shipment, SABER fees, FASAH customs clearance and invoices.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
How to find the US import duty on a product in 2026: HTS codes, Section 301, 232 and 338 duties, the IEEPA ruling and refunds, de minimis, customs value and fees.
Checked against official sources: 2026-11
Selling to EU buyers from outside the EU in 2026: EORI, who acts as importer, customs value, import VAT and IOSS, the EUR 3 parcel duty, ICS2 and product rules.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Why customs holds shipments: documents that don't match, vague descriptions, wrong HS codes, low values, missing filings or permits, and what to do if held.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
The most common reasons banks reject documents under a letter of credit, based on UCP 600 and ISBP 821, plus a pre-presentation checklist for exporters.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Exporting food to the US in 2026: FDA facility registration and renewal, prior notice, FSVP, canned food filings, labels, allergens, FDA holds and de minimis.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Vietnam: who files the DAV product notification, CFS and legalisation rules, Vietnamese sub-labels, PIF and customs documents in 2026.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Exporting cosmetics to the US: MoCRA facility registration and product listing, label rules, SPF products as OTC drugs, and how FDA checks shipments at entry.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Exporting cosmetics to the EU in 2026: EU Responsible Person, CPNP notification, safety report, labels, new allergen rules, banned substances and customs.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Export cosmetics to Japan under the PMD Act: the Japanese MAH licence, product and PMDA notifications, ingredient standards, Japanese labels and customs.
Checked against official sources: 2026-09
Make a commercial invoice and packing list for an international Shopify or Etsy order: export the order CSV, fill in the buyer and items, add HS codes and origin, check and print.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Exact origin declaration text for the commercial invoice under EU–Korea, EU–UK, EU–Japan, UK–Japan, CETA, EU–Vietnam, Korea–EFTA, EU GSP and UK DCTS.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
The EU charges EUR 3 per item on B2C parcels up to EUR 150 from 1 July 2026. From 1 November 2026 import declarations need product identifiers. What changes.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Say the order once (product, quantity, price, Incoterm, buyer) and the proforma, commercial invoice and packing list fill in. What to say, privacy, browsers and limits.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
Which photos to take while goods are packed and loaded into a container, how to tie them to the packing list, container and seal numbers, and how to keep them as a record for a later damage or shortage claim.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
How to check a new overseas buyer before offering open account or deferred payment: trade references, a bank reference with the buyer's release, a credit report, screening and what to ask for when the checks are thin.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
When an overseas buyer says the goods are damaged, short or wrong: what the CISG says about examining the goods and giving notice (Articles 38 and 39), the seller's right to cure, price reduction, and a practical first reply.
Checked against official sources: 2026-10
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Each note summarises the official rules (laws, regulators and customs authorities) as checked on the date shown, lists its sources and points out recent changes. The notes are practical guidance, not legal advice.
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