Dealing with Mistakes in Certificates of Origin and Practical Risk Management

A Certificate of Origin is an important document that is essential for receiving customs duty reductions or exemptions.
Even the slightest error in the description can cause delays in customs clearance in the importing country, which can have major repercussions such as increased tariffs and delays in transportation schedules.

This time, we will divide the case into two categories: "errors related to the determination of origin" and "errors related to export information," and clearly explain the correction procedures required for each.

Procedural response in the event of changes to the information provided

Changes in the content of the determination of origin

If there is a change in the HS code of the export product or a major change in the name of the export product, you will need to start over with the "Request for Origin Determination Application."

The process involves submitting a request for a new assessment to the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry or other organization, and having the "origin of this product" assessed again.

Not only will the certificate be reissued, but the decision itself will have to be redone, so the process will take time.

Changes to export information

If there are any changes to the information related to this export, such as shipping information, means of transportation, quantity, or weight, you will need to apply for a reissue.

Since this is a reissue application, the fee will be charged again.
Please note that a certificate of correct information must be obtained before the shipment arrives in the importing country.

Other options available besides reissuing your card

Utilizing bonded warehouses

If the cargo has already arrived in the importing country and it will take time to correct the certificate, it may be possible to temporarily store the cargo, depending on the importing country.

Bonded warehouses allow you to store goods before paying duties and taxes, allowing you to safely store your cargo while waiting for the re-issuance of certificates or completion of a new assessment, minimizing unnecessary costs and delays.

However, please note that there is a limit to the period that goods can be stored in a bonded warehouse, or if a certain period has passed, storage fees will be charged.

First, you need to check with the importer.

Utilizing retroactive application

Retroactive application may be permitted in some importing countries.

Even if the Certificate of Origin is not in order at the time of import customs clearance, preferential tariffs can be retroactively applied by submitting a corrected or newly issued certificate at a later date.
However, applicable periods and conditions vary depending on the country and agreement, so it is necessary to check with the importing country's customs office or the importer in advance.

The benefits of entrusting application support

Preventing reissuance of specific certificates of origin

Based on our extensive experience, we will support you in avoiding post-issuance corrections as much as possible.

Appropriate procedural decisions

We will determine whether to request a retrial or a re-issuance and respond promptly.

Stable export system

We can continue to support accurate and planned exports.

For specific certificates of origin, please contact Support Administrative Scriveners Corporation

There are regular exports, which make management difficult and the procedures complicated.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

Author: Ishikura