How to quickly handle international customs clearance in Bahrain
To prepare and handle international customs clearance in Bahrain efficiently, you can follow the following steps:
1. Understand Bahrain customs clearance requirements
Tariff system:
Bahrain belongs to the customs union of the GCC countries. Most goods are subject to a unified tariff of 5%, but special tariffs are imposed on certain goods such as cigarettes and alcoholic beverages, and import permits are required.
Customs clearance documents:
Commercial invoice: details the description, quantity, unit price and total price of the goods, and indicates the contact details of the exporter and importer.
Bill of lading (sea bill of lading or air waybill): a document that proves the transportation contract and the receipt of the goods.
Certificate of origin: Proof of the origin of the goods is essential to enjoy specific tariff preferences, and a declaration related to Israel must be indicated and consular certification must be obtained.
Import license: For restricted import products such as medicines, weapons, alcoholic beverages, etc., you need to apply to the Ministry of Commerce of Bahrain or relevant government departments.
Packing list: details the packaging of the goods.
Quality certificate/inspection certificate: Quality inspection certificate required for restricted import products, especially food, medicines and chemicals.
Health certificate/sanitary certificate: for food, animal and plant products, to prove that they meet Bahrain's health standards.
Other special documents: such as cosmetics, food and vitamins require an import license from the Ministry of Health; chemicals require an import license from the Ministry of Environmental Protection; gaskets, rubber seals, etc. require an import license issued by the Chamber of Commerce; communication equipment, etc. require an import license issued by the Ministry of Communications Supervision; educational books require an import license issued by the Ministry of Information Industry.
2. Registration and update information
Bahrain importers or traders must register and update their company business registration information in the new customs system. Individuals also need to register and update relevant certificate information in the customs system.
3. Prepare customs clearance documents and review
Before shipping, ensure that all accompanying materials are complete, including the above customs clearance documents.
Carefully review the documents to ensure that the information is accurate to avoid customs clearance delays.
4. Submit customs clearance documents and follow up
Submit documents: After the goods arrive in Bahrain, submit all customs clearance documents through the electronic declaration system of Bahrain Customs.
Follow-up review: Customs officials will review the declaration documents and goods and may request additional information or documents. Respond to customs requirements in a timely manner to ensure a smooth customs clearance process.
5. Pay duties and taxes
Based on the customs assessment results, pay duties, value-added tax (VAT) and other possible taxes. Payment is usually made through bank transfer or online payment systems.
6. Release of goods and subsequent audits
Release of goods: After all fees have been paid, the customs will issue a release notice, and the goods can leave the customs supervision area and be shipped to the final destination.
Subsequent audits: Customs may conduct follow-up audits on released goods to ensure that all regulations are complied with.
In summary, efficient preparation and handling of international customs clearance in Bahrain requires a full understanding of Bahrain's customs clearance requirements, registration and update information, preparation and review of customs clearance documents, submission of documents and follow-up audits, payment of duties and taxes, and attention to the release of goods and subsequent audits. These steps will help ensure that the goods are cleared smoothly and arrive at the final destination in time. If you want to be simpler and more convenient, you can directly choose our DDP door-to-door delivery service to provide you with a one-stop, easy and fast logistics experience. Please feel free to call or whatsapp us.
