Every declaration your cargo needs
Import declarations
We file the import declaration, match it to your invoice and HS codes, and track it to release.
Export declarations
Export declarations filed before the cargo leaves, so the booking and the papers line up.
Re export and transshipment documents
Papers for goods that land in Dubai and move on to Africa, the GCC or CIS.
Duty and VAT payment
We work out the duty and VAT due and settle them so release is not held up.
Free zone to mainland movement
Documents and duty for goods moving from a free zone into the UAE mainland.
Inspections and holds
If customs calls an inspection or holds the cargo, we attend, answer and push for release.
The Dubai customs clearance procedure, step by step
Four steps from your first document to release. We tell you where your cargo is at each one.
Send documents
Share the invoice, packing list and bill of lading or airway bill as soon as the cargo is booked.
We check and declare
We check every line, confirm the HS codes and file the declaration with Dubai Customs.
Duty paid and inspection if called
We settle duty and VAT. If customs selects the cargo for inspection, we handle it on site.
Release and delivery
Once the cargo is released, we deliver it to your door or move it into storage.
Documents you need for customs clearance in Dubai
Most shipments need the papers below. We check the full set before your cargo arrives.
Import
- Import code for the consignee
- Attested commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading or airway bill
- Certificate of origin
- Import permit where the goods need one
Export
- Customs client code for the exporter
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Booking, bill of lading or airway bill
- Certificate of origin where the buyer asks for one
- Export permit for controlled goods
iFree zone and mainland clearance follow different procedures, and some goods need approval from the relevant authority before arrival.
Customs clearance charges in Dubai
Free zone and mainland clearance
Where your company is licensed decides how your goods are cleared. Our Dubai team prepares the papers for each.
Free zone company
- Goods can enter the zone with duty suspended
- Duty is due when goods move into the UAE mainland
- Re export from the zone suits Africa and GCC trade
- Zone authority rules apply on top of customs rules
Mainland company
- Duty and VAT are paid when the goods are cleared
- The consignee needs an import code
- Released goods can be sold anywhere in the UAE
- Some goods need a permit before they arrive
Our Dubai team prepares the free zone or mainland documents your company type needs.
Why ship with Gxpress
Our own team in Dubai
Our Dubai team prepares the documents your company type needs, for free zone and mainland companies alike.
Papers checked at origin
Our offices in India and China check your papers before the cargo sails, so problems are fixed before arrival.
One file, one invoice
Freight and clearance run under one Gxpress file and one invoice, on our GClick system from invoice to tracking.
Often booked with clearance
Questions we hear every week
Still unsure? Send us your shipment details and we will answer with facts for your cargo.
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