South America is known for its corruption and South American ports are no exception. Before starting any customs clearance for a container shipment of a car in South America, it is advisable to be well-prepared in terms of port handling procedures and knowledge of shipping fees. Being familiar with port handling procedures not only saves time and hassle, it also lessens the chances of having to hand out “facilitation fees” – to use a friendlier term than bribes.
Port Handling Procedures – Customs Clearance
Before starting any port handling procedures, make sure all paperwork is in order. Although it varies per port or even per customs broker, papers that are most probably needed when dealing in a port handling procedure are:
- Valid passport and visa [if required].
- Valid international driver's license.
- Bill of Lading, the document that is issued by the shipping line when the container is loaded on board. The Bill of Lading proves ownership of that container.
- Delivery Order, issued by the shipping line after arrival in the port of destination.
- Car documents such as registration papers and third-party insurance.
N.B. A Carnet de Passage for South America is no longer required [a Carnet de Passage is a document that allows travellers to temporarily import their vehicles without having to leave a cash deposit at the border]. Having said that, buying a Carnet de Passage just to bring the vehicle into the continent may facilitate the procedure.
The Use of a Customs Broker for Customs Clearance
There are two ways to arrange customs clearance: independently or with the aid of a customs broker. Working independently has the advantage of not having the expense of hiring a customs broker; the disadvantage may be having to pay exorbitant shipping fees because of ignorance, or unnecessary prolongation of port handling procedures. By hiring a customs broker one is certain of having to pay his fee, but it may save a lot of time, stress and possibly extravagant charges.
Choosing to work with a customs broker may either be the result of personal preference, or because the port authorities demand an intermediary in the person of a customs broker.
How to Find a Reliable Customs Broker
At, or around, ports there are always men hustling and handing out business cards, trying to find customers this way – not necessarily a bad way. Another option is to tour the city and visit different customs brokers. Ask the shipping line which customs broker they work with, or ask other big, international shipping lines which customs brokers they use.
Compare customs brokers and their quotes to take care of the port handling procedure. Price is important, but do not underestimate the value of having faith in a customs broker. Some of them are simply not interested in going through the motions of customs clearance for just one private vehicle, while others are happy to be of assistance.
Port Handling Procedures – Shipping Fees
- The shipping line charges local taxes, logistic fees, Delivery Order, and THC Destino.
- The Terminal, or Port, charges things like: verification, cargo de seguridad, devolucion mty importacion, cargo manipuleo, tasas a las cargas impuestos [price per ton].
N.B. Since the car is not imported, no import duty should be paid.
Tips on Customs Clearance Procedures in South America
- Before starting the official customs clearance, take the time for a chat. In Argentina, accepting a 'mate' [a herbal tea] is a good way to break the ice.
- Never, ever be in a hurry – an essential South American rule in any bureaucratic rigmarole. If in a hurry, do not show it.
- Being well-rested and familiar with the surroundings before starting a port handling procedure avoids a lot of stress.
- Master a few basic words in Spanish or Portuguese, just knowing the words "hello" and "thank you" may help a lot.
- Visit customs brokers personally; there is a reasonable chance that the quote given by e-mail will be lower after a meeting with the customs broker.
- Check websites of overlanders on experiences with customs clearance and current shipping fees.
To be well prepared is the key factor in handling a proper customs clearance. Patience and time will help greatly to facilitate customs clearance procedures as well.
Karin-Marijke Vis - Karin-Marijke Vis is a bilingual writer (Dutch-English) who has been traveling in Asia and South America since 2003.
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