Customs Clearance in Cambodia Explained

Customs clearance is the process where Cambodian Customs checks your goods and documents, collects duty and taxes, and allows the cargo to leave the port.

Who does it? Importers can file themselves, but most use a licensed customs broker who knows the system and the officers.

The main stages

1. Cargo arrival and manifest. The shipping line submits the cargo manifest. Your goods must appear on the manifest before the declaration can be processed.
2. Declaration. The broker enters the declaration with the HS code, value, quantity, weight and origin.
3. Selectivity (risk channel). The system assigns a channel. In general terms, low-risk shipments may be released with little checking, while others get a document check or a physical inspection.
4. Assessment. Customs calculates duty and taxes based on the declared value, HS code and origin.
5. Payment. You pay the assessed amount.
6. Release. After payment and any checks, the goods are released for delivery.

Common problems

• Wrong or vague HS code
• Value that looks too low compared with similar goods
• Container, seal or weight on the declaration not matching the Bill of Lading
• Missing permits for restricted goods
• Late filing, which leads to storage and demurrage costs

Tips

send documents to your broker before the ship arrives, make sure names and quantities match on every document, and keep copies of all receipts.

Procedures and systems are updated from time to time. Confirm details with Customs or your broker.