Export procedures

Introduction

It has been observed that the world's economic and scientific development and progress is towards increasing the need for documentation rather than decreasing it. To make a success in export trade, the exporter must adopt an integrated systems approach a well-defined export price and payment policy. This approach must start right form the quotation stage when the price and offers are being made for presentation to the potential overseas buyer.

Correct documentation, therefore, is the lubricant of international trade and its importance cannot be overemphasised. Incorrect documents cause delays at ports when clearing the goods through customs, resulting in extra costs, failure to met delivery dates and, in some cases, seizure of such goods. Unfortunately, some exporters fail to realise the importance of correct documentation and thus develop bad reputation for their export business. In order to save extra costs and possible delays a the point of import, the potential exporter should ensure that he is full acquainted with all aspects of the actual procedure involved in getting the goods from factory/farm gate to the consignee. It is therefore, important to know what documentation will be needed to get the goods out of the country of production and into the foreign market with the least possible delay and expense.

Also, it is necessary to know what special certificates are required e.g. health, sanitary, free sale and the like.

Classification of goods

Most countries have now adopted the Customs Co-operation Council Nomenclature (CCCN) formerly known as the Brussels Trade Nomenclature (BTN). The CCCN is comprised of 99 chapters with many sub-divisions in each chapter. The first four digits are similar in all countries using the CCCN and EEC countries the first six digits are similar but any further breakdown in code numbers may vary from country to country. Any export should be familiar with this trade code to ensure effective communication between and his buyers. Though codification products in trade can hardly be misunderstood.

The Federal Government of Nigeria issued new guidelines for both exports and imports in 1996. The new guidelines for export were aimed at ensuring strict adherence to accountability and transparency in the conduct of international business by Nigerians as a first step towards building a good image for the country. The objectives would be achieved by ensuring that the quality and quantity of all exports as well as the true value of goods to the consignee tally with the claims on all accompanying documents. The new guidelines have been used to update and review the publication on export procedures and documentation in Nigeria.

The procedure

Having completed bank transactions, identified, carried and certified the demands of inspection; goods could be moved to the port of shipment for Customs inspection. The inspection is conducted at the newly created Customs Processing Centres (with eight customs processing units (CPUs) at major ports in Nigeria.