In the increasingly dynamic context of import and export, ensuring that goods meet international standards is crucial for smooth customs clearance.
One of the important requirements in many markets such as Europe, the United States, Australia, and Japan is the Fumigation Certificate. So, which goods require this certificate? How can you avoid the risk of returns or heavy penalties? Let Trường Thành Logistics, a reputable logistics company with over 10 years of experience, help you explore the details to best prepare for your shipments!
What is a Fumigation Certificate and Why is it Important?
A Fumigation Certificate is a document issued by a competent authority, confirming that goods have been treated with chemicals to eliminate insects, bacteria, or harmful pathogens. This document is particularly important in countries with strict hygiene and environmental protection standards, aiming to prevent the spread of pests across borders.
Without a fumigation certificate, shipments may be returned, fined, or even prohibited from import.
Which Goods Require a Fumigation Certificate?
Not all goods require fumigation. However, certain specific categories of goods are mandatory to have this certificate, especially when exporting to demanding markets.
Here are the main categories of goods:
1. Agricultural Products and Organic Produce Agricultural products such as rice, coffee, cashew nuts, pepper, tea, tapioca chips, beans, corn, wheat, or animal feed of organic origin are susceptible to termites and mold during long transportation periods, especially by sea. Without fumigation, insects or bacteria can develop, harming the environment and ecosystems of the importing country.
2. Goods of Wood Origin Products such as handicrafts, rattan and bamboo products, wooden furniture, and untreated wooden decorations need to be fumigated to eliminate the risk of termites and mold. Natural wood, especially precious wood, is an ideal environment for insects to thrive if not chemically treated. Note: Some countries like Australia and New Zealand require fumigation according to the AFAS standard, while the international standard ISPM 15 applies to untreated wood.
3. Wooden Packaging and Packing Materials Wooden pallets, wooden crates, wooden boxes, wooden dunnage, or cushioning materials used to pack goods such as ceramics, machinery, and spare parts must also be fumigated. These materials can easily carry insects or microorganisms, especially in the humid conditions of containers.
4. Other Goods as Specifically Required In addition to the above categories, some countries or importing partners may require fumigation for:
+ Goods from epidemic areas: For example, food or products from regions at risk of spreading pests.
+ Non-mandatory goods requested by partners: Some customers in Korea and Japan require fumigation even if the goods are not in the mandatory list, to ensure safety. Note from Trường Thành Logistics: Always carefully check the requirements of the importing country and the contract with your partner. For assistance in accurately identifying goods that need fumigation and avoiding unnecessary costs, please contact Trường Thành Logistics immediately.
Consequences of Not Having a Fumigation Certificate
Ignoring the fumigation requirement can lead to serious risks:
+ Returns or refusal of customs clearance: Goods that do not meet standards will be held at the port or returned to Vietnam, incurring costly shipping and storage fees.
+ Heavy fines: Penalties can be up to tens of thousands of USD, depending on the country.
+ Import ban: Some markets like Australia and the United States may ban imports from violating exporters, affecting long-term reputation.
+ Loss of goods: If goods are destroyed at the port of import, the business loses both production and transportation costs. Trường Thành Logistics helps businesses minimize risks by providing specific regulations for each market and coordinating with reputable fumigation companies, ensuring internationally accepted certificates.
Procedure for Applying for a Fumigation Certificate
To apply for a fumigation certificate, businesses need to:
+ Prepare documents: Including commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, application for a certificate, and export license (if any).
+ Contact a fumigation service provider: Choose a company licensed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, such as Vietnam Fumigation Joint Stock Company (TCFC) or Vietnam Fumigation Company (VFC).
+ Carry out fumigation: Spray chemicals (usually Methyl Bromide) on goods or packaging, at the factory, container yard, or port. The process lasts 12-48 hours depending on requirements.
+ Receive the certificate: After 1-2 days from the time of spraying and submitting all documents, the fumigation certificate issuing agency will provide the certificate. Reference cost: Approximately 300,000 – 500,000 VND per 20-foot container, depending on the service provider and type of goods. At Trường Thành Logistics, we connect businesses with quality fumigation service providers, ensuring a quick process and optimal costs.
Notes for Effective Fumigation
+ Choose a reputable provider: Some certificates from low-quality suppliers may be rejected by customs, especially in Australia or New Zealand. Trường Thành Logistics helps to check and recommend reliable partners.
+ Comply with ISPM 15 standards: Ensure that wooden pallets or packaging are heat-treated (HT) or chemically fumigated (MB) according to international regulations.
+ Check the contract: Importing partners may require fumigation even if the country does not mandate it. Confirm this in advance to avoid issues.
+ Reasonable timing: Complete fumigation before loading containers onto the ship to avoid schedule delays.
Trường Thành Logistics – Accompanying Import-Export Businesses
At Trường Thành Logistics, we understand that a successful shipment involves not only transportation but also meticulous preparation of documents and compliance with regulations. We offer:
+ Dedicated consultation: Accurately identify goods requiring fumigation and the requirements of the import market.
+ Professional connections: Collaborate with leading fumigation service providers, ensuring globally accepted certificates.
+ Comprehensive services: From preparing documents and applying for certificates to transportation and customs clearance, we handle every step so you can have peace of mind.
+ 24/7 support: Our team of experts is always ready to answer questions and resolve issues promptly.
Don’t let the lack of a fumigation certificate hinder your shipments in the international market. With Trường Thành Logistics, every process becomes simple, fast, and efficient. Contact us now for a free consultation and start your successful import-export journey.
For assistance with import and export information, international freight, sea transport or import entrustment, please contact Truong Thanh Logistics at the address:
Truong Thanh Logistics – Dedication, Prestige
Hotline: 0915 36 38 39
Headquarter: 26th Floor, Tower A, Song Da Building, Pham Hung, Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi.
Email: sale@truongthanhjsc.com
info@truongthanhlogistics.com
Website: www.truongthanhlogistics.com
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Address: R.A11, TTC Building, 630 Le Thanh Tong, Hai An, Hai Phong
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