Understanding Dangerous Goods in Foreign Trade
Customs clearance of dangerous cargo involves a rigorous process of control, inspection and compliance with national and international standards. These goods, classified according to UN criteria and conventions such as the IMDG Code, pose risks to health, public safety or the environment when mishandled or stored improperly.
Flammable, corrosive, toxic, explosive, oxidizing or radioactive products are some examples of dangerous cargo. And when it comes to handling them in import or export operations, the responsibility and technical requirements increase considerably. Correct customs clearance of dangerous cargo ensures that it enters or leaves the country safely, meeting all the legal and technical requirements.
Why Is the Customs Clearance Process for Dangerous Goods Different?
The nature of dangerous cargo requires a different approach from the outset. Even before international shipment, the exporter must provide the appropriate documents, use approved packaging and hire carriers trained to handle this type of product. When the goods arrive in Brazil, the customs clearance of dangerous cargo goes through specific channels, with detailed analysis of documentation, inspections and authorizations from multiple regulatory bodies.
Unlike ordinary cargo, this type of operation requires, for example:
- Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
- Emergency data sheet (MSDS or SDS)
- Risk labels and appropriate symbology
- Packaging approved according to risk class
In addition, the temporary storage site must be certified to receive loads with these characteristics, and the staff involved in handling them must have specific training.
Step-by-Step Customs Clearance of Dangerous Goods
1. Correct product classification
The first step in customs clearance of dangerous goods is to correctly identify the merchandise. Each item receives a UN number (United Nations Number) and is classified in one of nine risk classes. This identification defines the type of documentation, packaging, transportation and tax requirements of the operation.
2. Document preparation
It is necessary to prepare complete and coherent documentation, including:
- Import or export declaration
- Prior licenses issued by bodies such as Anvisa, the Army, Ibama or Inmetro (depending on the nature of the product)
- Safety data sheet and handling instructions
- Bill of lading and commercial invoice
- Authorization for land and sea transport
Incorrect or incomplete documentation is one of the main causes of dangerous cargo being held up at ports and airports.
3. Proper Storage
During the customs clearance process for dangerous goods, storage must take place in certified areas that are segregated from other goods. This guarantees the physical integrity of the cargo and avoids the risk of cross-contamination or accidents. Specialized bonded terminals follow strict ventilation, containment and signage protocols.
4. Evaluation by Regulatory Bodies
Depending on the type of cargo, different entities can be called upon to authorize clearance. Chemical or pharmaceutical products, for example, require approval from Anvisa. Explosive products or those with war potential require clearance from the Brazilian Army. Products with environmental risks involve Ibama.
This cross-referencing between federal agencies makes the process more complex, and each requirement needs to be met in good time, with consistent technical information.
5. Analysis by Receita Federal
After the approval of the consenting bodies, the Federal Revenue Service analyzes the fiscal and tax aspects of the operation. The goods can be sent to different conference channels:
- Green channel: automatic release
- Yellow channel: document checking
- Red channel: documentary and physical check
- Gray channel: investigation of value or suspicion of fraud
In the case of dangerous cargo, it is common for the operation to fall into a yellow or red channel, which requires agility in the presentation of documents and specialized technical support.
Risks of a Poorly Conducted Dispatch
Delays in the customs clearance of dangerous cargo lead not only to high storage costs, but also to environmental risks, damage to the company's image and even the definitive seizure of the cargo. A misidentified package, an expired license or an error in tax classification can generate heavy fines and compromise the entire supply chain of the importing or exporting company.
In addition, failure to comply with the rules may constitute an environmental or public health crime, with civil and criminal consequences for those responsible for the operation.
The Role of Integrated Logistics in Customs Clearance
Customs clearance of dangerous cargo needs to be integrated into a safe, efficient and traceable logistics chain. This includes planning transportation from the source, choosing safe routes, using prepared vehicles, adequate insurance and real-time monitoring.
The synchronization between shippers, carriers, port operators and customs brokers is what ensures that each stage takes place within the standards required by law and with total control over deadlines and risks.
The Importance of Relying on a Specialized Import and Export Company
Faced with such complexity, it is not advisable to carry out the process on your own. Enlisting the support of a import-export company The specialized system makes it possible to anticipate problems, eliminate document failures and guarantee compliance at every stage of the operation.
This type of company has a trained technical team, practical experience with multiple risk classes and detailed knowledge of the legal requirements of all the agencies involved. The result is faster, safer and more cost-effective customs clearance.
How an Import and Export Company Can Help
A specialized company carries out everything from the technical classification of goods to scheduling mandatory inspections, as well as providing guidance on packaging, labels, transport and documentation. It also offers advice on special customs regimes and logistical alternatives that reduce costs without compromising security.
In the event of emergencies, this partner is able to act quickly with regulatory bodies and take corrective measures based on tested protocols. The expertise accumulated in different segments and types of hazardous cargo translates into operational agility and less exposure to risk.
