Adaption’s Logistics Cloud Suite (LCS) provides an integrated Warehouse Management System (WMS) that is perfectly equipped to manage complex customs processes. This system automates and streamlines the entire customs handling process, from clearance to storage in a customs warehouse, ensuring full compliance with international customs regulations.
1. Arrival of goods and manifest registration
When a shipment arrives at the warehouse, the WMS automatically registers the manifest (a document containing all shipment details). This process includes entering information such as:
2. Customs clearance or storage in a customs warehouse
The WMS supports two key routes:
3. Tracking and Tracing
The system provides full tracking and tracing of goods, including the status of customs goods (e.g., “not cleared” or “in transit”).
4. Document Management and compliance
Adaption’s LCS automatically generates all required customs documents, such as:
5. Export or distribution
When goods are sold or exported, the WMS automatically calculates import duties and VAT based on the HS code and provides the necessary data for an Export Declaration (EXA) or other customs formalities.
Step 1: Arrival of shipment
A company imports a container of laptops from Asia to the Netherlands. Upon arrival at the Port of Rotterdam, Adaption’s LCS automatically registers the manifest and links it to warehouse management. Each laptop receives a unique inventory status with the corresponding customs status.
Step 2: Storage in a customs warehouse
The laptops are stored in a customs warehouse. The WMS registers that the goods are “under customs supervision” and manages the Customs Bond. Until the laptops are sold or exported, no import duties or VAT are paid.
Step 3: Order from germany
An order is placed by a retailer in Germany. The WMS calculates the applicable import duties and VAT and automatically generates the Import Declaration (AtI). Once customs approval is granted, the inventory status changes to “free circulation,” and the laptops are shipped.
Step 4: Export to the USA
A portion of the laptops is exported to the USA. Adaption’s LCS generates an Export Declaration (EXA) and manages the T1 document for transport to the port. The goods leave the EU without any import duties being paid, as they are exported directly.
Functionality:
Benefit:
Automation of Clearances
Reduced administrative burden and faster processing.
Real-Time Inventory Management
Always have insight into customs status and inventory location.
Customs Bond Management
Seamless registration of Customs Bonds and compliance reporting.
Flexibility
Supports both storage in a customs warehouse and regular clearances.
International Compliance
Comply with customs regulations in multiple countries with automated processes.
A customs warehouse within a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a solution that allows companies to store goods without immediately paying import duties or taxes. The WMS facilitates this by accurately managing inventory, customs procedures, and bonds. This is particularly valuable in complex logistics chains where flexibility and cost efficiency are crucial.
In a customs warehouse, goods remain under customs supervision while being temporarily stored. A WMS plays a key role by providing:
Inventory Management: The WMS precisely registers which goods are stored and links this to customs information.
Regulatory Compliance: The system ensures all customs requirements are met, such as tracking bonds and timely reporting to customs authorities.
Tracking and Tracing: The WMS provides real-time insight into the status of goods, whether they are stored, shipped, or exported.
Suppose an international company imports laptops and smartphones from Asia into a warehouse in the Netherlands. The goods are temporarily stored in a customs warehouse while awaiting distribution to various EU countries.
1. Arrival:
The shipment arrives at the Port of Rotterdam. Instead of being cleared immediately, it is stored in a warehouse with customs warehouse status. The WMS registers the quantity and type of goods.
2. Storage:
The goods remain in the warehouse until orders are received. No import duties or VAT are paid during this period, improving the company’s cash flow.
3. Shipping:
When an order from Germany arrives, the WMS automatically calculates applicable import duties and taxes. The necessary data is sent to customs, and the goods are shipped immediately.
4. Exporting Unsold Stock:
Some stock remains unsold in Europe and is exported to South America. Because the goods were stored in a customs warehouse, no unnecessary import duties were paid, as the goods were never officially placed in EU circulation.
Cost Savings: No immediate import duties; duties are only paid when goods are placed on the market.
Efficient Inventory Management: The WMS ensures structured and compliant storage.
Scalability: Ideal for companies operating globally, requiring flexibility in logistics.
This approach is particularly attractive for companies in consumer electronics, where products are frequently shipped internationally, and profit margins depend on smart cost control.
Adaption’s Logistics Cloud Suite simplifies and enhances customs processes through automation, real-time insights, and full compliance with customs regulations. Whether you choose direct customs clearance or storage in a customs warehouse, the system provides the flexibility and control needed to succeed in international trade, such as in the consumer electronics sector.
Contact us for a no-obligation consultation or schedule a demo. Together, we will achieve your logistics goals and support your company’s growth!
