All goods imported into Australia are classified under the Customs Tariff, and may be subject to customs duty.
Here at WSI, we know that this can be confusing for many importers and our experts in container transport in Sydney explain that customs import entry procedures are based on self-assessment by importers, including self-assessment of the correct classification of goods.
As explained by the The Department of Immigration and Border Protection the following may help answer a few of your questions in relation to import tariffs:
How do you use the Tariff when importing goods?
Importers are required to self-assess their goods, including the tariff classification of their goods. Importers have a legal obligation to correctly assess their goods, and penalties may apply for incorrect or misleading information provided to the Department.
Importers are also encouraged to use the services of a licensed customs broker if they are unsure of how to classify their goods. Customs brokers charge for the services they provide. To find a customs broker, search online or in your local Yellow Pages. Customs brokers are licensed by the Department.
What additional advice can the Department provide?
The Department provide a tariff advice service free of charge, offering advice on goods you intend to import and helping you to make business decisions. The advice is for specific goods from specific manufacturers, and once you receive the advice you must follow it or penalties may apply. The Department standard for the tariff advice service is 30 days. However, at times it may take longer, depending on the demand for this service.
How can I keep up to date with tariff information?
Stay informed by subscribing to ‘Updates to Tariff Information’. You can subscribe to updates on tariff precedents, tariff classification guides and other changes to the tariff website via the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.
For more information on tarriffs follow this link: https://www.ato.gov.au/Business/Excise-and-excise-equivalent-goods/Excise-equivalent-goods-(imports)/Customs-duty-rates/
To find out more about our customs warehousing, trasport and underbond warehousing in Sydney, contact WSI, the container transport company in Sydney.
