What does a customs declaration indicate?

A customs declaration is a formal document that provides essential information about goods being transported across international borders. One of its primary purposes is to declare the value and contents of the shipment. This declaration is necessary for customs authorities to assess the appropriate duties and taxes, and to ensure that the goods comply with import regulations and restrictions.

The declaration typically includes details such as the nature of the goods, their quantity, and their value. This information helps customs officers determine if the goods can be allowed entry into the country and if any tariffs or prohibitions apply. By providing this critical information, the customs declaration serves as a key tool in regulating trade and ensuring that all shipments comply with international laws and standards.

In contrast, while the origin of the goods, shipping costs, and delivery methods are important aspects of shipping logistics, they are secondary to the core function of the customs declaration, which is to disclose the contents and valuation of the shipment for customs processing.