INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT CERTFICATES
If you are considering exporting from Australia it may be a good idea to understand requirements in relation to export certificates. Some of the more common certificates are listed below. Call CargoMaster if you would like to know more about export documentation
Certificate of Free Sale (CFS)
When exporting to certain countries you will require a Certificate of Free Sale (CFS), also called an export certificate or certificate of export. An Export Certificate confirms in writing that you can sell your goods in the Australian market and that there are no restrictions. The Certificate of Free Sale certifies that you have the approval of relevant authorities to sell your goods in Australia.
The overseas purchaser of your products may have problems with customs clearance and registration process’s if you do not provide a CFS when required, your buyer may not be able to import your product into their country. You may need to present this certificate as part of the customs clearance or registration process.
A CFS is often requested for products such as:
- food-based products
- medical parts, devices and products
- certain complementary, prescription, and over the counter medicines.
Not all countries require a CFS, the need for a Certificate of Free Sale will depend on your product and your export market. Speak with your buyer to find out if you need a CFS.
Where can I get a Certificate of Free Sale?
To find out more and apply for a Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) visit:
- Department of Health Therapeutic Goods Administration
- Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
- Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI)
ATA CARNET
An ATA (Admission Temporary Admission) Carnet is an international document that permits temporary the temporary entry of commodities into overseas countries. Carnets are used for goods that are intended to be imported for a short period of time, then exported back to the country of origin. It provides exemptions for import duties and taxes. It is most often used for high-value goods imported for specific uses.
Typical goods that may be transported under a Carnet:
- cars, bikes, boats, caravans or trailers for exhibitions and trade shows
- es or cars and other vehicles used for motorsports
- equipment, trucks, and machinery for mining or farming
- cameras and other equipment used for filming and audiovisual production.
To apply for a Carnet contact The Australian Chamber Of Commerce and Industry
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry www.australianchamber.com.au/international/certificates-of-origin (ACCI).
PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATE
Many countries will require a Phytosanitary Certificate for specific regulated commodities such as plants, plant products (for example Grain) or other specified products.
A Phytosanitary Certificate confirms that these products:
- were inspected and treated as required
- are free from quarantine and other potentially dangerous pests
- comply with the regulations of the country you are exporting to.
Phytosanitary Certificates available from the
CERTFICATE OF ORIGIN (CoO)
A coO is Government certified or can be issued by an authorized entity. A Certificates of Origin confirms the place of growth, production or manufacture of the commodity. It confirms the goods were manufactured and originate from the country specified on the document.
Certificates of Origin are needed when Origin when:
- exporting to countries where Australia has a current Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
- it is requested by the importer for customs clearance
- it is specified in a Documentary Letter of Credit.
Some agreements will allow for a self-certification, while others require a certificate from an authorised body. Self-certification carries a high level of risk and is not recommended for new exporters.
There are 2 types of Certificates of Origin:
- 1. Preferential certificates
A Preferential certificate will assist customs authorities to confirm your compliance with trade agreements made, tariffs and and Rules of Origin.
Rules of Origin (ROO) are an agreed set of rules between countries that share a preferential trade agreement, such as a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
ROO set out the criteria for which goods are eligible for free or preferential import tariffs. Typically, they require a product to be entirely produced in a one of the participating countries, or have a minimum percentage of the value produced there. They can be complex to understand so speak with your customs broker or freight forwarder, or visit the DFAT Free Trade Agreement Portal.
Note: If Australia has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the country you are exporting to you can apply for a Preferential certificate
- Non-preferential certificates
Local governments of most countries issue non-preferential certificates to collect statistical data and ensure you are meeting:
- government sanctions
- anti-dumping rules
- quotas
- general tariffs.
Where can I get a Certificate of Origin?
To find out more and apply for a Certificate of Origin (COO) visit:
- Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI)
- Australian Industry Group (AI Group)
- International Export Certification Services (IECS)
For information about the documents needed for specific products check out: