RESOURCES

CFFC (Change Freight Forwarding and Consulting) is a premier logistics firm based in Sydney, Australia. Specializing in comprehensive transportation services for air, sea, and rail cargo, CFFC operates in over 50 countries worldwide. With over 18 years of industry experience, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized freight solutions tailored to each client's specific needs. Our dedicated freight specialists and experienced Customs Brokers emphasize reliability, customer service excellence, and compliance.

The responsibilities of a customs broker can vary widely depending on their clients' needs and specialties. A customs broker develops expertise in clearing goods for specific client requirements.

Upon receiving initial shipping documents, a customs broker performs the following tasks:

• Liaises with the airline or shipping line to obtain arrival details of the cargo.

• Collects a 'delivery order' from the airline or shipping line and settles any associated charges.

• Handles necessary documentary checks with Customs and the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE).

• Arranges for inspections or examinations required by Australian Customs, DAWE, or for issues related to pilferage or damage.

• Organizes the collection of cargo from the airline or wharf and ensures delivery to the client's premises.

• Provides the client with a completed Customs Clearance dossier, which must be retained by the goods' owner for a minimum number of years.

An Australian freight forwarder has a reliable network of overseas agents to ensure the safe transportation of your goods to and from Australia. A professional freight forwarder can efficiently coordinate the collection of your boxes and containers from your supplier's premises, manage the shipping process to Australia, handle customs clearance, and ensure the final delivery to your location.

• Port of Brisbane
• Port of Sydney
• Port of Fremantle
• Port of Melbourne
• Port of Hedland
• Port of Dampier
• Port of Wellington
• Port of Darwin
• Port of Adelaide 
• Port of New Castle

A packing declaration is essential for all sea freight shipments, as mandated by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE). This document should be completed by the packer of the goods. Having a packing declaration can help reduce costs associated with inspection fees.

The responsibilities of a customs broker can vary widely depending on their clients' needs and specialties. A customs broker develops expertise in clearing goods for specific client requirements.

Upon receiving initial shipping documents, a customs broker performs the following tasks:

• Liaises with the airline or shipping line to obtain arrival details of the cargo.

• Collects a 'delivery order' from the airline or shipping line and settles any associated charges.

• Handles necessary documentary checks with Customs and the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE).

• Arranges for inspections or examinations required by Australian Customs, DAWE, or for issues related to pilferage or damage.

• Organizes the collection of cargo from the airline or wharf and ensures delivery to the client's premises.

• Provides the client with a completed Customs Clearance dossier, which must be retained by the goods' owner for a minimum number of years.

Low-Value Imports:

• Goods worth equal to or under AUD $1000 incur no duties, taxes, or charges.

• Self-Assessed Clearance (SAC) declaration is required for air or sea cargo arrivals, handled by the freight forwarder or cargo company.

High-Value Imports:

• Goods worth over AUD $1000 require an Import Declaration form, subject to processing charges, duties, and taxes.

Starting out as an importer or exporter in Australia involves navigating several key aspects to ensure smooth operations and compliance with regulations. Here are some essential things you should know: Regulations and Compliance: Learn about Australian customs regulations, including tariffs, duties, and import/export controls. Visit the Australian Border Force (ABF) website and the Department of Home Affairs for detailed guidance.

Documentation Requirements: Familiarize yourself with essential documentation like commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and necessary permits.

Understanding Tariffs and Duties: Know the tariff classifications and duties that apply to your products using resources like the Australian Harmonized Export Commodity Classification (AHECC) and Customs Tariff.

1. Customs Clearance: Engage a licensed customs broker for smooth customs clearance, ensuring compliance and efficiency.

2. Benefit from Trade Agreements: Explore Australia's free trade agreements (FTAs) for potential tariff advantages on eligible goods.

3. Logistics and Shipping: Master international shipping logistics, including transportation methods (air, sea, land), packaging requirements, and Incoterms (sales terms).

4. Taxation and GST: Understand Goods and Services Tax (GST) implications for imports, alon\g with other relevant taxes based on your business structure.

5. Permits and Licensing: Check if your goods require specific permits or licenses from authorities such as the Department of Agriculture or Therapeutic Goods Administration.

6. Market Research: Conduct thorough market research in your target export markets or sourcing countries. Analyze demand, competition, pricing, and regulatory landscapes.

7. Risk Management Strategies: Implement strategies to mitigate risks like currency fluctuations, political instability, logistics delays, or regulatory changes.

8. Legal and Contractual Considerations: Understand international contracts, Incoterms, payment terms, and legal obligations when dealing with suppliers or buyers.

9. Network and Support: Connect with industry associations, chambers of commerce, or trade promotion organizations for valuable networking, market insights, and export/import support.

Starting as an importer or exporter requires careful planning, compliance with regulations, and understanding the complexities of international trade. Staying informed and seeking professional advice when needed will help you navigate these challenges effectively. 

9.SHOULD I USE A CUSTOMS BROKER? 

Using a Customs Broker can significantly streamline your import process and ensure compliance with local regulations. At CFFC, our experienced Customs Brokers specialize in navigating complex customs procedures to minimize delays, lower customs duties and taxes costs, and guarantee swift clearance at ports. Whether you're importing goods by air, sea, or rail, our dedicated team ensures a smooth and efficient customs clearance process tailored to your specific needs.

Key Benefits of Using a Customs Broker:

• Expert Guidance: Navigate complex customs regulations effortlessly.

• Cost Savings: Minimize customs duties and taxes costs.

• Compliance: Ensure adherence to local import regulations.

• Efficiency: Streamline the import process to reduce delays.

• Peace of Mind: Trust our experienced team for reliable customs clearance solutions.

Partner with CFFC for expert customs brokerage services that simplify your import operations and optimize your logistics chain. Contact us today to learn more about how our Customs Brokers can support your business.

LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) are terms used in shipping logistics to describe different modes of transporting goods via sea freight:

1. LCL (Less than Container Load):

• Definition: LCL refers to shipments that do not fill an entire shipping container. Instead, multiple shipments from different shippers are consolidated into one container.
• Usage: It is suitable for smaller shipments that don't require a full container's worth of space. Shippers pay only for the space their goods occupy within the container.

2. FCL (Full Container Load):

• Definition: FCL refers to shipments that occupy an entire shipping container, whether it's a 20-foot (20 ft) or 40-foot (40 ft) container.
• Usage: Ideal for larger shipments from a single shipper that require the entire capacity of a container. Shippers pay for the entire container regardless of whether it's fully loaded or not.

Key Differences:

• Volume: LCL is for smaller volumes, while FCL is for larger volumes.
• Cost: LCL costs are based on the volume of goods shipped, while FCL costs are fixed for the container.
• Security: FCL shipments are less prone to damage or tampering since they're not mixed with other shipments.

Choosing between LCL and FCL depends on factors like shipment size, cost considerations, and the need for container exclusivity.