Customs Area Controller in charge of Area 1 command in Port Harcourt, Mr Jamo A.M has counselled importers and their agents that proper documentation is the only way to ensure speedy clearance of cargo in the ports.
Customs Area Controller in charge of Area 1 command in Port Harcourt, Mr Jamo A.M has counselled importers and their agents that proper documentation is the only way to ensure speedy clearance of cargo in the ports.
The controller gave the tips in a paper he handed over to our correspondence at his office in Port Harcourt port, last week. He said that it is very important for importers to be familiar with certain documents that are used in importation, stating that poor understanding of these documents, are often what constitutes major road blocks militating against speedy clearing process.
He said one of such documents is form ‘M’, which according to him, must be submitted to an authorized dealer Bank with the detailed information, on whether such document is valid or not valid for foreign exchange. Jamo said among such information are: detailed description of the goods, stating whether it is new, used, refurbished, and or whether it meets the basic standard used. He said that form ‘M’ should also contain quantities of goods to be imported, and their measurements, Unit Cost of goods, total cost of goods, freight cost and the mode of transportation either by Sea, or Air.
He noted that the Form ‘M’ should also contain whether it is the full container load or not, other charges, including the country of origin.
Other imports documents according to the area Controller includes the: Proforma Invoice, Combined Certificates of Value Origin (CCVO), Parking List, Way Bill and sometimes, physical analysis and chemical analysis certificate.
He said that the Risk Assessment Report (RAR) is an advisory document issued by the service providers. The RAR instrument gives detailed description of the import, value, HS Code, Quality, weight, Form ‘M’ number, Duty Payable etc”, Jamo stated.
He also said that Single Goods Declaration (SDG) is the final document that can be used to clear the goods from Nigeria Customs formation.
Discussion about this post