For every shipment beyond the borders of the European Union, careful handling of customs procedures — both for export and import—is essential. Fresh Ways simplifies every step of the process with a comprehensive customs advisory service, ensuring transparency and precision for the secure and seamless transport of goods.
Export customs: our assistance for international shipments
Export customs management is handled by Fresh Ways in close collaboration with our trusted customs operator, Battaglino Custom Services. Depending on the requirements, the Italian exporter can either provide pre-cleared goods or entrust the entire export clearance process to us.
Required documentation for export customs:
- Sales invoice including “VAT Exempt Article 8” indication, preferential origin declaration (with Eori/Rex code), Incoterms (EXW, FCA, DAP, DDP) and EORI codes for the exporter and importer;
- Packing List, detailing customs code, number of packages, net and gross weight, value and currency of goods, origin and treatment for animal or plant products, specific documentation for goods requiring certifications (veterinary, phytosanitary, fisheries, Agecontrol etc. certificates).
Upon completion of export customs, the documentation is uploaded to the Enveloppe on the French customs website. This mandatory step allows French customs to pre-verify all customs declarations before the goods exit the European Economic Community.
Import customs is managed by our trusted UK agent, Eori (UK) Ltd, operating 24/7 to provide continuous assistance. Once the import declaration is completed, our customs agent sends the documentation directly to Fresh Ways, enabling us to generate the GMR (Goods Movement Reference) required for crossing the UK border.
This document provides UK customs with a comprehensive list of declarations, facilitating inspections and ensuring a quick and secure border crossing.
Choosing Fresh Ways for customs procedures means partnering with experts who understand regulatory complexities and provide a complete and secure service.
From initial contact to delivery, we handle every detail with precision, ensuring obstacle-free transport that complies with regulations. Every customs step is managed meticulously to ensure that all products arrive at destination in perfect condition.
01. Which documents are required for customs procedures?
We require essential documents such as the commercial invoice with the indication “VAT Exempt – Article 8”, the Eori codes of both the exporter and importer, the packing list detailing weight, value and origin of the goods and specific certificates (veterinary, phytosanitary, fishing, Agecontrol) required for products that necessitate them.
02. How do we manage customs duties during importation?
Customs duties, including tariffs and VAT, are calculated based on the value of the goods, their customs classification code and their country of origin. We collaborate with qualified partners to ensure the correct assessment of duties and full compliance with regulations.
03. What do we do if a shipment is held at customs?
With the 24/7 support of our partner Eori (UK) Ltd, we act quickly to resolve customs holds. We ensure verification and completion of missing documents, manage communications with customs authorities and finalize the necessary procedures to expedite clearance.
04. Why entrust us with customs procedures?
Thanks to a comprehensive service, we handle every detail of the documentation, from GMR generation for the UK to the preliminary verification of customs declarations. Our Omnia platform ensures full transparency, allowing you to constantly monitor your shipments in real time.
