Frequently asked questions from our clients

1. When are export documents required?

   Export documents are typically required for all cross-border shipments. Countries within the European Union do not require customs documentation from fellow EU countries. However, shipments from countries outside the EU will require customs declarations. Shipments from the US to other US Territories don’t always require documentation, but we strongly suggest verifying upon booking as rules are subject to change.

2. Why do I need to provide a Tax ID?

   Many countries require a Tax ID to clear customs to identify the exporter as a valid entity or individual. Failure to present a tax ID upon an object’s arrival could lead to the item’s return or abandonment. Tax ID requirements vary by export country but we typically suggest exporting under an EIN in the US and EORI in the UK and EU.  Social Security Numbers are still accepted for exporting Parcel goods from the US. You can provide an EIN number in place of an SSN. You can apply for an EIN here.

3. Who is the Exporter of Record?

   Also referred to as the Seller, Consignor, Sender, or Merchant**,** this is the person or legal entity that receives the monetary benefit from an export transaction. More simply, the person who sold and wants to ship out the goods.

4. When will Arta send me an ECD link and when is a Commercial Invoice Required?

   Our Export Customs Documents feature is available for all shipments being exported from the US, EU, and the UK across all quote types. How to complete the Export Customs Documents form.

   Commercial invoices are excepted for shipments originating from all other countries. Learn about Exporting with Commercial Invoices.

5. How do I decide on the right HS code?

   Arta’s ECD form has an HS code selection tool that helps identify the best fit based on the object subtype. If you are not using ECD, this official harmonized system code website is helpful when discerning which code applies.

6. What is a customs status?

   For shipment originating within the EU or UK there is a possibility that duties and taxes were deferred when the shipment was originally imported and put under Temporary Admission. If sold to a domestic buyer, the buyer who purchases the goods will owe duties and taxes. If sold internationally, the buyer will pay duties and taxes upon arrival into their country. The options for customs status are:

   • Free Circulation: All duties and taxes have been paid upon entry by the buyer.
   • Temporary Admission: Duties and taxes are currently deferred and will be the responsibility of the buyer if sold domestically and the buyer if sold internationally.
   • Bonded Warehouse: Objects are stored in a secure facility that defers the duty and tax until sold and delivered. Movement whilst under Bond is heavily restricted, whilst under this customs status.

7. How can I save time on the ECD form?

   Our ECD form pulls in information provided on the original quote request. If you have the Creator, Created Date, Medium or even HS Code you can include those in your request via the Dashboard, API or data import template.

8. Can I save my exporter of record information?

   Yes! On our Professional and Custom subscriptions you can save an Exporter Profile.

Common terms used by customs

1. Shipper/Exporter: Also referred to as the Seller, Consignor, Sender, or Merchant**,** this is the person or legal entity that receives the monetary benefit from an export transaction.
2. Consignee: The consignee refers to the buyer or recipient. This person or entity is ultimately the person responsible for paying any customs duties.
3. HS Code: Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes are used by customs authorities around the world to classify products when assessing duties and taxes and for gathering statistics.
4. POA: A Power of Attorney is sometimes required when someone transacts “customs business” on behalf of a corporation. A POA is also required any time a third party transacts “customs business” on behalf of an individual or partnership.
5. Tax IDs: Keep in mind that the information below is a general overview. Be sure to check the appropriate country’s official customs site as requirements may change over time.
   • EIN – Tax ID that the US government uses to identify business entities located in the US. You can apply for an EIN here.
   • Social Security Number -A social security number can be used in lieu of an EIN for US Exports if the shipment is under $2,500 and is shipped with a parcel carrier.
   • EORI – A number provided by the European Union that serves as a reference number for communication with customs authorities. You can learn more here.
   • VAT – A UK-specific code similar to an EIN or EORI. A company’s VAT (value-added tax) number is the same as its related EORI number, however, with the prefix ‘GB’ and the suffix ‘000’. You can read more here.

Information typically required for export

• Date of Sale
• Exporter Name
• Exporter Address
• Exporter Tax ID
• Consignee Name
• Consignee Address
• Description of goods
• Quantity
• Value
• Country of origin
• HS Code

Arta’s How to Guide for Successful Customs Clearance