THE CUSTOMS Department is encouraging importers and relevant agencies to utilise its new automated systems which facilitate speedier and efficient processing of transactions with the department.
Despite the fact that in recent times several new procedures have been instituted for efficiency and ease in doing business with Customs, the department is indicating that importers are under-utilising these automated systems, including the electronic manifest, pre-arrival processing (PAPS) and electronic payment facilities.
Customs said the automated systems offered greater convenience and persons should utilise them in order to gain maximum benefits. The benefits of using these systems include more timely completion of transactions, significant reduction in costs and general improvement in service quality, it was explained.
The e-manifest system, deemed to be Customs' flagship project, allows shipping agents, non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCC), freight forwarders, couriers, and airlines to submit manifest documentation to Jamaica Customs electronically. A manifest, is a document that details particulars of cargo being imported.
In its operation, the process will begin with the arrival of the cargo and the prior entry of the manifest information electronically. The system will then be linked to the entry processing system with the capability for cross-reference and creating an inventory account for shipments as information is entered.
The department is hoping that this system will cause a 'quantum-leap in the type of rapid service delivery' without compromising security standards. This system enables the electronic submission of the Carriers Manifest ahead of the arrival of the vessel, and is an integral part of the electronic cargo processing system of Customs.
As it relates to the pre-arrival processing system (PAPS), the Department said this allowed importers to lodge entries for processing up to 10 days before the ships arrival, thus giving a 'just-in-time' effect for importers who need their cargo immediately.
Currently, the department processes C78 entries electronically but as a benefit derived from this activity there is a facility for pre-arrival processing of imports.
E-PAYMENT
Turning to the e-payment system, the department applauds importers/brokers currently using the system and encourages more persons to use this facility. Recent analysis has indicated that only two per cent of Customs collections year to date were being paid using this medium.
This facility allows the payment of duties for C78 entries via the Internet using credit cards. An importer or broker can access e-payment by using the department's web site at http://www.jacustoms.gov.jm or via the C78 broker application. Outlining the benefits of the e-payment facility, Customs explained that it eliminate the need for manager's cheques, waiting in cashier lines, and that it provided the convenience of being able to check the status of entries on-line.
C79 FORM
Another improvement being considered is the replacement of the current import entry form - C79 with the new C78X. This is for non-commercial imports with a maximum value of US$1,000.00 CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight).
This entry will be accompanied by the C86 form which requires the importer/declarant to submit a detailed description of the consignment. This would also serve as the importer's formal declaration of the consignment.
This new form will ensure 'full electronic control of cargo from ship to gate' thus giving Customs the confidence to exercise prudent expediency while at the same time improving customer satisfaction.
For additional information visit the Jamaica Customs' web site at www.jacustoms.gov.jm.
Customs Department.
