How to Export to Venezuela - Export to Venezuela

Import Regs.: Documentation

Under Plan Zero initiated in September of 2003 by the GOV customs authorities have stopped and inspected various shipments. Under this program any discrepancies in the documentation and the actual contents of the shipment are grounds to stop shipments and require clarification to eliminate the discrepancies or confiscate the shipment.

-- Documents must be in Spanish.

-- The invoice must be typewritten; a photocopy will not be accepted. It must be in duplicate and list both the value per unit and the total value of the shipment. Exporters should quote CIF prices. Insurance and freight must be listed separately on the invoice. Shipping and insurance costs are to be listed separately. Description for the merchandise must include the appropriate tariff number, which the importer can supply.

The following documents may be required:
-- customs declaration
-- commercial invoice;
-- bill of lading;
-- packing list;
-- certificate of origin;
-- special certificates, permits or authorization of sale (such as phytosanitary, quality standards or firearms permits).

Consignee.
-- All shipments must be made on a direct consignment basis.
-- Customs regulations stipulate that the consignee is the owner of the shipment and is responsible for all customs payments.

Sight Draft
-- Some US companies have had difficulties with sight draft transactions.
-- When Venezuelan companies delay or refuse to claim merchandise arriving Customs will impound goods not claimed, and, if fines and storage fees are not promptly paid, sell the goods at auction.

Customs Brokers
-- Customs brokers typically charge one percent of the CIF value, or less on regular orders.
-- Additional charges for document preparation and incidentals. These expenses are normally paid by the importer.
-- The Commercial Section of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas can provide names of reputable agents.