Express customs clearance - how does it work and when to use it?

Express customs clearance: how does it work and when to use it?

In today's international trade scenario, speed in logistics operations has become a determining factor in the success of companies. The speed with which goods are released has a direct impact on the efficiency of the supply chain, compliance with deadlines and competitiveness in the market. It is in this context that express customs clearance has emerged as a strategic alternative for businesses that need to optimize time and ensure greater predictability in import and export processes.

In this content, you will understand how this modality works, what its differentials are, in what situations it can be applied and how to count on specialized support to get the most out of this resource.

What is express customs clearance

O express customs clearance is a simplified and accelerated procedure that allows cargo to be cleared more quickly with the Federal Revenue Service. It is a modality suitable for companies that need agility in the nationalization or export of goods, especially in cases where the time factor is decisive for the success of the operation.

Unlike the traditional process, where clearance can take several days, express shipping reduces deadlines through optimized flows, differentiated risk analysis and the use of priority channels. This translates into productivity gains, savings on storage and greater logistical predictability.

How express customs clearance works

Express customs clearance works in a similar way to the regular process, but with a few special features that make it quicker. Below, we explain the main steps to better understand these dynamics.

Classification of goods

The first step is to correctly classify the goods according to the NCM. This code defines the tax and administrative treatment of the product and is essential to avoid questions and delays in clearance.

Preparing and checking documents

The documentation must be complete, coherent and free of discrepancies. Mandatory documents include the commercial invoice, the bill of lading, the packing list and any licenses required by the consenting bodies. In express customs clearance, any inconsistency can compromise the desired speed.

Registering the declaration in the tax office system

For imports, the Import Declaration must be registered in the Siscomex system. In the case of exports, the registration is done through the DU-E. This step formalizes the operation and initiates analysis by the Federal Revenue Service.

Parameterization

After registration, the Revenue system assigns a conference channel. In express customs clearance, companies with a good track record often go through the green channel, which releases the cargo automatically, without physical or documentary inspection.

Release of goods

If all the steps are followed correctly, clearance takes place quickly, often on the same day as landing. This is the main difference between express and conventional clearance.

When to use express customs clearance

The choice of this modality must be strategic and based on the specific needs of the operation. Below are the main scenarios where express customs clearance is more advantageous.

Urgent goods

Products with high turnover or that need to be available quickly on the market, such as maintenance parts, technological items or seasonal products, are strong candidates for the use of express shipping.

Perishable or sensitive products

Goods with a short shelf life or that require strict temperature control, such as fresh food, medicines and flowers, need an agile release process so as not to compromise their quality.

Recurring operations

Companies that operate frequently in foreign trade can use express customs clearance to create a more efficient and predictable logistics flow, reducing dependence on high stocks.

Reduction of indirect costs

Although the main focus is agility, this modality also reduces storage costs, the risk of fines for delays and idle time for cargo in customs zones.

What are the requirements for using express customs clearance?

Not all companies or operations can immediately benefit from express customs clearance. There are certain prerequisites that must be met, including:

  • Have an active and regularized CNPJ
  • Have a history of tax and customs compliance
  • Present correct documentation without inconsistencies
  • Working with qualified logistics operators
  • Comply with the requirements of regulatory bodies

Companies certified as Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) are even more likely to be prioritized in the parameterization channels, which favors the use of express dispatch.

Advantages of express customs clearance

Adopt the express customs clearance brings a series of benefits to companies seeking excellence in logistics and customs operations.

Operational agility

The main advantage is the drastic reduction in the time it takes to clear goods, which enables faster distribution and customer service.

More predictability

With a more controlled and faster process, the company can better plan its routes, stocks and delivery times.

Less exposure to risks

The less time cargo stays in a customs area, the lower the risk of loss, damage or additional charges.

Competitive advantage

Agile dispatch translates into faster deliveries and greater capacity to respond to the market, which creates a competitive edge.

How an import-export company can help

Relying on a company that specializes in international trade is essential if you want to use express customs clearance strategically. This type of partner offers:

  • Complete support in analyzing the feasibility of express shipping
  • Checking and organizing the required documentation
  • Proper registration of declarations in the IRS system
  • Real-time monitoring of each stage of the process
  • Support in the event of demands or inspections

With an experienced and trained team, your company avoids mistakes that could jeopardize the operation and guarantees efficient handling from shipment to final delivery of the goods.

Conclusion

O express customs clearance is a modern and efficient solution for companies that can't afford to waste time on bureaucracy and delays. When well planned and executed, it becomes a true strategic ally, helping to streamline operations, reduce costs and strengthen the company's position in the global market.

With the support of a import-export company, If you're looking for the best solution, you can take advantage of all the benefits of this modality with security, organization and intelligence. After all, in an increasingly dynamic scenario, those who anticipate and deliver faster gain more space and trust.

Contact us

Headquarters | Caxias do Sul

Rua Dr. Montaury, 2090 | 5th floor Exposição | Caxias do Sul - RS | 95020-190

Offices in

Dover | Shanghai | Hong Kong | Itajaí

Contact

+55 54 9 9623.0929
+55 54 3538.0280

All rights reserved.

2024. Afianci.

Cookies and privacy policy.