basic-guide-to-exporting_Latest_eg_main_086196

Export LicenseA government document that authorizes the export of specific goods in specificquantities to a particular destination. This document may be required for most or allexports to some countries. For other countries, it may be required only under specialcircumstances. (See Chapter 2 for more details.)Export Packing ListConsiderably more detailed and informative than a standard domestic packing list.It itemizes the material in each package and indicates the type of package, such as abox, crate, drum, or carton. It also shows the individual net, tare, and gross weightsand measurements for eachpackage (in both U.S. and metricsystems). Package markings shouldbe shown along with references toidentify the shipment. The shipperor forwarding agent uses the listto determine the total shipmentweight and volume and whetherthe correct cargo is being shipped.In addition, U.S. and foreigncustoms officials may use the list tocheck the cargo.Insurance CertificateUsed to assure the consignee thatinsurance will cover the loss of ordamage to the cargo during transit.ShippingThe Harmonized System (HS) describesproducts for customs purposes.It is recognized by 179 countries,customs bureaus, or economic unions,representing 98 percent of world trade.• Six-digit codes are assigned that represent generalcategories of goods. Countries that use HS numbersare allowed to define commodities at a more detailedlevel but must “harmonize” the first six digits to theHS framework.• Using these codes ensures that customs officials arereferring to the same item when classifying theproduct and applying the tariff rate.The handling of transportation is similar for domestic and export orders. Exportmarks are added to the standard information on a domestic bill of lading. Thesemarks show the name of the exporting carrier and the latest allowed arrival date atthe port of export. Instructions for the inland carrier to notify the international freightforwarder by telephone on arrival should also be included. You may find it useful toconsult with a freight forwarder to determine the method of international shipping.Because carriers are often used for large and bulky shipments, you can reserve spaceon the carrier well before the actual shipment date. This reservation is called thebooking contract.International shipments are increasingly made on a bill of lading under a multimodalcontract. The multimodal transit operator (frequently one of the transporters) takescharge of and responsibility for the entire movement from factory to final destination.140U.S. Commercial Service • A Basic Guide to Exporting