The exporters who frequently export goods under the categories of plants and animals and plant and animal products are required to apply for Health/Phytosanitary Certificates for every consignment. These goods are known as export controlled goods and their import and export are controlled by Australia’s Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR). The documentation process is cumbersome for many exporters who repeatedly fail to complete the document forms without errors.
If you are facing similar issues, you may think of hiring an export documentation expert who offers comprehensive services in this direction. Here’s a small guide to help you choose the right expert on the basis of the answers to a few important questions.
Do They Know Prescribed Vs. Non-prescribed Goods?
In order to complete the documentation correctly, the expert you choose must know the difference between prescribed goods and non-prescribed goods. According to the Export Control Act of 1982, the goods that must be inspected and certified by the authorized officers are known as prescribed goods. For example, grains and fresh fruits and vegetables are the goods that belong to this category.
Non-prescribed goods are those which according to the above-mentioned Act don’t essentially require certification. An example of this category is fish oil strictly meant for manufacturing purposes.
Do They Refer to the MICoR?
Whether the goods are prescribed or non-prescribed, different importing countries may set guidelines for certifications of different types of goods. These requirements are compiled in the Manual of Importing Country Requirements (MICoR). The documentation expert you choose must refer to this manual in order to know the exact requirements of the country you plan to export to.
Do They Use EXDOC-compliant Software?
The Export Documentation (EXDOC) system is used by the DAWR to respond to an exporter’s request for permits and other important export documents. When choosing a documentation service provider, you must ensure that the company uses software from a vendor recommended by the DAWR on its official website. It should also be registered with the EXDOC as an EDI user or should help you register as an exporter.
Do They Know what’s SEW?
The Single Electronic Window (SEW) is a facility which helps the exporters to apply for permit with the DAWR and for the export declaration number with Australia’s Customs simultaneously. It is possible to save time and money using this facility. Though, it is not an essential requirement that the documentation expert should fulfil but having it can definitely add to the advantage.
Do They Help in Preparing Other Documents?
If you are planning to hire a documentation service provider, why not choose the one offering complete assistance in preparing all the necessary documents and certificates? For example, you may also require a certificate of origin or letter of credit or a commercial invoice. By choosing an expert meeting each of these requirements, you can actually make the documentation process much more efficient.
While looking for one such expert, you may come across a number of options. Make sure you evaluate them on the basis of their experience and knowledge to enjoy the expected benefits.