In the process of air export customs declaration, post-declaration procedures are equally crucial. This phase extends beyond merely submitting and reviewing declaration forms, encompassing multiple steps including inspection, documentation processing, amendments, and financial settlements. To help professionals navigate this complex workflow, here is a detailed overview of post-declaration operations, designed to provide thorough understanding of the entire air export customs process.
I. Customs Declaration Review and Release
In any air export operation, declaration review and cargo release take priority. Once electronic review is approved, goods proceed through different release channels based on their status. For paper-based declarations, the first step typically involves visiting designated counters to obtain a "document release" number. For paperless declarations, operators must wait for a "comprehensive processing" number—a critical step ensuring timely cargo release for subsequent operations.
Release procedures may encounter unexpected requirements for supplementary documents. Even in routine cases, maintaining effective communication remains essential. With increasing adoption of paperless declarations, adapting to updated workflows and regulatory compliance is paramount.
II. Cargo Inspection Procedures
Cargo inspection is an indispensable component of air exports, verifying declaration accuracy and consistency. Inspections are typically conducted three times daily at 10:30, 14:30, and 19:30. For instance, an airline's standard inspection schedule might follow this framework.
- Document preparation: After submission, inspected cargo details are recorded at designated counters where inspection notices are issued. For paper declarations, specific forms must be detached for cargo retrieval, while other documents accompany the declaration for processing. Paperless procedures require only detaching one copy for inspection.
- Cargo retrieval: Procedures vary by airline. For example, Air China requires fee payment and registration before inspection submission, while BGS mandates processing at specific cargo gates. Understanding these differences is crucial for inspection efficiency.
- Inspection execution: At inspection centers, officials verify declaration and airway bill completeness before transferring to customs officers. Maintaining clear communication with officers ensures smooth progress.
- Post-inspection: If no issues are found, inspection result forms are printed at customs offices, requiring declarant signatures and official stamps before release—a critical step affecting subsequent financial processes.
III. Declaration Amendments and Warehouse Returns
Following inspection, declaration amendments or warehouse returns may be necessary. For amendments, operators must first obtain processing numbers, preferably confirming required documents in advance. For unexamined goods requiring amendments, administrative approval procedures must precede document submission.
Warehouse returns require completed customs-stamped cancellation forms submitted at designated counters. Though straightforward, mishandling may cause cargo delays, warranting careful attention.
IV. Export Document Issuance and Tax Refunds
After completing preceding steps, operators must confirm declaration closure at designated counters. Post-closure, service departments print barcodes for export document issuance.
Concurrently, tracking tax refund forms' status ensures timely printing. The refund process involves interconnected steps where any delay may cause financial losses, requiring meticulous oversight.
V. Post-Closure Document Modifications
For post-closure adjustments, operators must follow paper/paperless requirements precisely. With complete documentation, submissions are accepted on specified mornings weekly, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
The air export customs process presents significant complexity, but systematic knowledge accumulation builds operational competence. Success hinges on understanding each step's requirements and documentation.
Professionals should continuously monitor industry updates, regulatory changes, and best practices to maintain competitiveness in international air freight. Detailed process comprehension enables risk identification and operational efficiency, supporting career advancement in this dynamic field.
