Customs Clearance (Imports & Exports)

At True Way Logistics Ltd, we transform complex customs regulations into a clear, structured, and predictable workflow — ensuring that your goods move across borders smoothly, lawfully, and on time.

Our team of clearance specialists manages every stage — from document preparation to final cargo release — providing clients with full visibility and confidence throughout the process. 💠

1️⃣ Scope of Work

💼 Pre-arrival advisory:
We guide you before your shipment arrives — offering HS code classification, import eligibility review, license or permit verification, and duty/tax estimation based on CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) values.

📄 Document preparation:
Our team handles all required documents including:

• Commercial Invoice
  
  

• Packing List
  
  

• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
  
  

• Certificate of Origin
  
  

• Import/export permits (if applicable)
  
  

• Insurance certificate
  
  

• Power of Attorney or authorization letter
  
  

💠 SAXUM system processing:
We prepare, encode, and submit all declarations through the SAXUM customs management system — including coordination for scanning or physical inspection when required by customs.

⚓ Port/Airport interface:
Our field officers coordinate directly with port and terminal operators for manifest matching, Delivery Order (DO) retrieval, and terminal handling.

💳 Duties & taxes settlement:
We provide accurate duty/tax calculations, guidance on approved payment channels, and immediate confirmation once payment is verified.

🚛 Release & delivery:
Once cleared, we finalize gate-out documentation, arrange transport, and issue proof of delivery.

2️⃣ Step-by-Step Import Process (Sea Example)

📆 Pre-alert & file opening (T-5 to T-3 days before vessel ETA):
We receive all documents, check for completeness, and flag any missing or inconsistent information.

📜 HS classification & valuation:
Our team confirms accurate HS codes and determines the CIF value, forming the base for duty and tax computation.

💻 Declaration in SAXUM:
We input all data, attach scanned documents, and book inspection slots (if required).

📦 Delivery Order (DO):
We collect DO from the shipping line or agent against Original B/L or telex release.

⚙️ Terminal & port charges:
We settle Terminal Handling Charges (THC), port dues, and storage fees — ensuring alignment with free-time limits to avoid penalties.

🔍 Customs inspection (if required):
Our team coordinates unpacking, scanning, or physical examination and provides supporting documentation.

💰 Duty/tax payment:
Clients receive a verified breakdown of customs charges; we assist in payment facilitation and confirmation.

🚛 Release & gate-out:
Once approved, we arrange truck pickup, obtain gate-out clearance, and issue proof of delivery.

3️⃣ Air Freight Import Process (AWB)

✈️ Workflow Overview:
Pre-advice & manifest → AWB and invoice verification → SAXUM declaration → Airline cargo terminal charges → Customs exam (if any) → Duties/taxes settlement → Release & handover.

Each stage is closely monitored to ensure your air shipments are cleared within hours, not days. ⚡

4️⃣ HS Classification Method

💠 Document-driven approach:
We classify goods based on product description, composition, functionality, and end-use.

📘 Application of General Interpretative Rules (GIRs):
Our staff apply international HS standards to ensure globally consistent tariff classification.

📑 Binding clarity:
In cases of uncertainty, we prepare internal classification notes and, where necessary, consult customs for pre-approval to avoid disputes.

5️⃣ Duty & Tax Estimation (Illustrative)

💰 Customs Value:
CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) basis used to compute total customs value.

📊 Duties and Levies:
Applied according to the assigned HS code and Somalia’s prevailing tariff schedule.

💵 Taxes:
Includes VAT or consumption taxes, where applicable.

📄 Landed Cost Sheet:
We provide a pre-shipment duty/tax summary — helping you estimate total landed cost and avoid surprises.

6️⃣ Compliance & Risk Controls

🧾 Internal review:
Every declaration passes a four-eyes review system to eliminate errors and ensure accuracy.

🛡️ License & permit verification:
We cross-check regulatory requirements for specialized cargo (e.g., telecom devices, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or food items).

📂 Record retention:
All clearance files and declarations are archived per compliance standards, ensuring full traceability and readiness for post-clearance audits.

7️⃣ Export Clearance

🌍 For exports, we manage end-to-end documentation and terminal compliance:

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List
  
  

• Booking with carrier
  
  

• Export declaration filing via SAXUM
  
  

• Terminal cut-off timing compliance
  
  

• Customs inspection (if applicable)
  
  

• Issuance of B/L or AWB after clearance
  
  

We ensure exporters meet all legal, commercial, and carrier requirements, enabling swift shipment release and accurate export documentation.