Importing through Chattogram port: the documents and steps
, 2 minute read, by Mashrur Corporation
Chattogram port handles the large majority of Bangladesh's seaborne trade, so most imported building materials and industrial goods pass through it. The process is paperwork-heavy but predictable. This outline covers the usual route for a commercial importer.
Before you order
- An Import Registration Certificate (IRC) from the office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports.
- A trade licence, TIN and VAT registration (BIN).
- A bank willing to open a letter of credit for you.
- The HS code of the goods, because it decides the duty rates and whether any permit or standard applies.
Agreeing the purchase
The supplier issues a proforma invoice stating the goods, price, Incoterm, shipment period and payment terms. On that basis your bank opens a letter of credit. Marine insurance is normally bought from an insurer in Bangladesh before the LC is opened, which is one reason many imports are priced on CFR rather than CIF terms.
Documents that travel with the shipment
- Commercial invoice and packing list.
- Bill of lading.
- Certificate of origin.
- Any test, inspection or mill certificates the LC calls for.
- The insurance policy or cover note.
Clearing the goods
When the vessel arrives, a licensed clearing and forwarding (C&F) agent lodges a bill of entry in the customs system on your behalf. Customs assesses the declared value and HS code, and you pay the duties and taxes. For most goods these include customs duty, VAT and advance income tax, and some goods also attract regulatory or supplementary duty.
After payment and any physical examination, customs releases the goods. You then settle port and shipping line charges and take delivery by truck.
Where the delays and costs come from
Containers get a short free period at the port. After that, port storage and shipping line detention are charged per day and add up quickly. The usual causes of delay are documents that do not match each other, a disputed HS code or value, and a missing permit. Check every document against the LC before shipment, not after arrival.
Rules, rates and required documents change. Confirm the current position with your bank and C&F agent before committing to an order.
This is general guidance. Standards, duties and procurement rules change, so confirm current requirements for your project before acting on it.