In the world of foreign trade, time is a determining factor. When we talk about customs clearance of perishable products, The truth is even stronger. After all, fresh food, medicines, flowers, vaccines and other sensitive items cannot wait. A delay in customs clearance can compromise the quality of the goods and result in major financial and operational losses.
In this content, you will understand how the process of clearing perishable cargo works, what precautions are indispensable, what the legislation requires and how to guarantee agility and safety at each stage. If you work or intend to work in the perishable goods import and export sector, this is essential reading to avoid risks and make your operation more efficient.
What is customs clearance for perishable goods?
O customs clearance of perishable products is the process of analyzing and releasing goods with a limited shelf life that enter or leave the country. This procedure takes place under the control of the Federal Revenue Service and may also involve the work of consenting bodies such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Anvisa and Ibama, depending on the nature of the product.
Because they are time, temperature and humidity sensitive, perishable products require a much more agile and careful customs process. The main concern is to preserve the original characteristics of the goods and ensure that they reach their destination in perfect condition for consumption or use.
Why clearing perishables requires extra attention
When importing or exporting perishable products, every minute counts. A simple document error or poor planning can lead to detentions at the cargo terminal, deterioration of the goods and damage that is difficult to repair. Here are some of the main factors that require special attention:
Short shelf life
Perishable products have a short shelf life. Any delay in customs clearance can make them unfit for consumption or unusable, directly affecting the supply chain.
Sensitivity to environmental conditions
Many products depend on strict temperature and humidity control. If cargo is left to sit for a long time in unsuitable environments, there can be a loss of quality, contamination or decomposition.
Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements
O customs clearance of perishable products also involves compliance with strict safety standards, traceability and specific documentation. Food, medicines and products of plant and animal origin undergo detailed inspections and need special permits to circulate.
Integrated logistics
Operating with perishable cargo requires perfect integration between international transportation, refrigerated storage, customs clearance and distribution. A mistake at any link in this chain can jeopardize the entire cargo.
What precautions should be taken when clearing perishables through customs?
To ensure that the process is quick, safe and efficient, it is essential to adopt good practices and maintain a preventive attitude. Below are the main recommended precautions:
Planning ahead
Even before the cargo is shipped, all the legal and operational requirements must be studied to ensure that the documentation is correct and complete. This includes import or export licenses, health certifications, laboratory reports and well-structured commercial invoices.
Choosing reliable modes and operators
Working with logistics operators specializing in perishable cargo makes all the difference. They already have the structure for refrigerated transport, the know-how to handle sensitive products and easy access to customs clearance channels.
Correct registration in the Revenue system
In Brazil, all foreign trade operations go through Siscomex. The correct completion of the Import Declaration or Single Export Declaration is essential to ensure a smooth process. Any inconsistency can lead to additional requirements or unnecessary withholdings.
Real-time monitoring
During the clearance process, it is essential to monitor the cargo in real time. This allows you to act swiftly in the event of any deviation or requirement on the part of the Internal Revenue Service or other intervening bodies.
Be prepared for inspections
Even with all the correct documentation, perishable cargo can be directed to inspection channels. Having everything in compliance and quick access to documents avoids delays at this critical moment.
The role of legislation in customs clearance of perishables
Brazilian legislation is very strict regarding the entry and exit of perishable products. This is mainly due to the need to protect public health and guarantee the quality of products consumed in the country. For this reason, various bodies can intervene in the process:
- Anvisa: regulates medicines, cosmetics, industrialized foods and health products
- MAP: inspects products of plant and animal origin
- Ibama: intervenes when the cargo has an environmental impact or involves controlled species
Knowing the rules and knowing exactly what documentation is required by each body is an essential step for the customs clearance of perishable products occurs without complications.
How a foreign trade company can help
In view of the complexity involved in customs clearance of perishable products, having a import-export company is a decisive factor in the success of the operation.
This experienced consultancy takes care of all the paperwork, liaises with the intervening agencies, monitors the process with the Revenue Service and even ensures that the logistics are synchronized so that the cargo reaches its destination without losing quality.
In addition, a company with technical knowledge and a strategic vision can anticipate risks, advise on the best routes and prepare its operation to meet all legal and health requirements quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
O customs clearance of perishable products requires a precise, fast and highly organized approach. From documentation to logistics, every detail must be planned in advance to ensure that the cargo is released and transported within the necessary timeframes.
The sensitive nature of these products requires extra care, not only to avoid losses, but also to ensure the health of end consumers and the reputation of the companies involved.
With the support of a company specializing in foreign trade, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity to deliver more quality, safety and agility to your customers. And in the world of perishables, first things first.
