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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)

Q What Is an ATA Carnet?
An international customs document, The Merchandise Passport. Carnets facilitate temporary imports into foreign countries and are valid for up to one year.

Q What are the Advantages of Using an ATA Carnet?
Reduces costs to the exporter by eliminating value-added taxes (VAT), duties, and the posting of security normally required at the time of importation. Simplifies customs procedures by allowing a temporary exporter to use a single document for all customs transactions, make arrangements for many countries in advance, and do so at a predetermined cost. Facilitates re-entry into the U.S. by eliminating the need to register goods with U.S. Customs at the time of departure.

Q What information is required to request a quote?
The number of pieces, weight, dimension, origin, destination, city, state, country and zip code. Special handling or packaging requirements, excess insurance requirements, product code or identification are also helpful.

Q What is a GBL and CBL?
A Government Bill of Lading (GBL) and Commercial Bill of Lading (CBL) are forms for government shipments utilized to facilitate service authorization and billing.

Q When is a Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) required?
An SED is required on shipments leaving the United States that are valued over $2,500 US.

Q Do I need to be concerned when arranging to air ship hazardous or restricted articles?
Items that are flammable, explosive, corrosive, have magnetic properties, or can in any way endanger flight safety will require declaration and special packaging or be prohibited from air transport.

Q How are air charges computed?
The weight (of the shipment) times the cubic volume times the rate determines the total air cost.

Q Is there a minimum density required by the air carrier?
Yes, typically international air carriers require (and charge) a minimum of 10.4 pounds per cubic foot or actual weight, whichever is greater when computing air costs.