Customs Clearance of Goods in Kazakhstan: A Step-by-Step Guide for Importers
Customs Clearance in Kazakhstan: A Step-by-Step Guide for Importers
When importing goods into Kazakhstan, it is important to prepare the necessary documents in advance, determine the correct HS code, and check the requirements applicable to the specific product. Errors at these stages may lead to customs clearance delays and additional costs.
Below, we explain the main stages of customs clearance in Kazakhstan.
What Documents Are Required for Customs Clearance?
The exact list of documents depends on the type of goods, country of origin, delivery terms, and the applicable customs procedure. Depending on the specific shipment, the following documents may be required:
foreign trade contract;
commercial invoice;
packing list;
transport document — CMR, AWB, or another document depending on the mode of transport;
documents confirming the origin of the goods, if required;
export declaration or other documents required by the legislation of the country of shipment;
permits and authorization documents, if required for the specific goods.
For food products, equipment, cosmetics, and certain other categories of goods, additional documents may be required, including certificates and declarations of conformity, state registration certificates (SGR), and other permits.
Main Stages of Customs Clearance
1. Determining the HS Code The HS code is used to determine applicable customs duties and requirements for the goods. The classification is based on the characteristics, composition, intended use, and other properties of the product.
2. Determining the Customs Value The customs value is used to calculate customs payments. To confirm the customs value, documents such as the commercial invoice, foreign trade contract, payment documents, and transportation documents may be required.
3. Checking Product Requirements Before the shipment is dispatched, it is necessary to check whether the goods are subject to any prohibitions or restrictions. All required permits and authorization documents should also be prepared in advance.
4. Submission of the Customs Declaration The customs declaration contains information about the goods, including their quantity and value, country of origin, HS code, sender, recipient, and other required details.
5. Payment of Customs Duties and Taxes The amount of customs payments depends on the HS code, customs value, country of origin, and other import conditions. Depending on the specific goods and terms of import, customs duty, VAT, and other applicable payments may be charged.
6. Customs Control and Release of the Goods Customs authorities review the submitted information and documents. If necessary, they may request additional documents or conduct a customs inspection. Once all required procedures have been completed, the goods are released.
Why Can a Shipment Be Delayed at Customs?
The main reasons include:
errors or inconsistencies in the documents;
discrepancies between the customs declaration and the actual characteristics of the goods;
incorrect HS code classification;
the need for additional confirmation of the customs value;
missing mandatory permits or authorization documents;
the need for additional customs control.
For this reason, it is recommended to start preparing for customs clearance in Kazakhstan before the goods are dispatched from the supplier's country.
Customs Clearance with NOMADTRANZIT
NOMADTRANZIT arranges international transportation to Kazakhstan by road and air, helping clients coordinate the main stages of cargo delivery. Before shipment, our specialists help check the key transportation requirements and prepare the necessary documents based on the specific characteristics of the cargo. If you are planning to import goods from Europe to Kazakhstan, properly prepared documents and well-organized logistics can help reduce the risk of delays and additional costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does customs clearance take? The time required depends on the type of cargo, the completeness and accuracy of the documents, and whether additional inspections or checks are required.
Can customs duties and taxes be calculated in advance? Yes. A preliminary calculation requires information about the goods, their value, country of origin, HS code, and other relevant data.
Are permits and authorization documents required? For certain categories of goods, yes. The requirements depend on the specific product and the applicable regulatory measures.