Blog

  • What are the responsibilities of a customs agent?

    The responsibilities of a customs agent consist of facilitating the import and export of goods subject to customs inspection. Among their tasks are the proper classification of merchandise, the calculation of dutiable value, and determining which products are subject to restrictions and controls. To carry out this work, they must have a thorough understanding of […]

  • Master Bill of Lading and House Bill of Lading: Similarities and Differences

    The Master Bill of Lading (MBL) and the House Bill of Lading (HBL) are the two variants of the main document used in international maritime transport: the Bill of Lading. This document serves as a transportation contract between the shipping line and the shipper, as proof that the shipper has delivered the goods to the […]

  • The Functioning of LCL Shipping for Imports (Part II)

    Less Than Container Load (LCL) shipping is used when the cargo is not sufficient to fill a full container. LCL shipping means that the goods must share a container with products from other suppliers. This system is often used by importers of small volumes of goods who opt for consolidation to save costs. Consolidation or […]

  • VAT on the importation of frames for prescription glasses

    The import of frames for prescription glasses is regulated in Spain by the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS), as they are considered medical devices and, therefore, must meet specific safety requirements as well as certification of compliance with the standards set out in Directive 93/42/EEC.The Royal Decree 1591/2009, following the community directive, […]

  • What is a Letter of Credit and How Does It Work in Importation

    The import letter of credit is a document by which the importer commits to paying the supplier of the goods. It is considered the safest payment method in imports, as it is the customer’s or importer’s bank that undertakes to pay the exporter’s bank the agreed amount of money in the international sales contract.The main […]

  • Key Aspects of the Bill of Lading in Maritime Imports

    The Bill of Lading (BL) is the most important document in maritime imports. The success of the commercial operation largely depends on its correct completion. The complexity of the documentation required for international maritime trade operations makes it advisable to delegate these procedures to a management company, especially for importers with little experience.The maritime transport […]

  • When and how to import goods by air

    Air transport in international trade is the fastest and safest method, but importing goods by air is not always the best option. Its advantages (immediacy, security, simpler logistics and procedures) are counteracted by higher costs and lower cargo capacity, so it is necessary to weigh all factors before making a decision. Advantages of Importing Goods […]

  • The Phytosanitary Certificate for Importing Plant Products

    The phytosanitary certificate for the importation of plant products is a necessary document to certify that goods originating from third countries are free from pests. The introduction of plants and plant products into the Member States of the European Union is regulated by Directive 2000/29/EC, which is reflected in the Royal Decree 58/2005 through a […]

  • The Functioning of LCL Shipping for Imports (Part I)

    Less Than Container Load), meaning the goods will share the container with products from other suppliers. It is the preferred system for importers of small volumes who opt for group purchases. Group purchasing or consolidation has many advantages, especially for SMEs, compared to FCL (full container load) shipping. However, LCL shipping for imports requires precise […]