Export regulations: what every new exporter must know

Exporting goods across borders requires compliance with the regulations of your home country and potentially the destination country. Ignorance of the rules does not prevent penalties, so understanding the basics is essential.

Key Steps Before Your First Export

1. Register as an exporter — Most countries require an export license or registration. In Ukraine, this is handled through the customs broker registration process.
2. Classify your goods — Assign the correct HS code. This determines duty rates and whether the product faces restrictions.
3. Check for restrictions — Some goods require special permits (dual-use items, agricultural products, pharmaceuticals). Use your country's export control list or Faktorist's compliance checker.
4. Prepare documentation — At minimum: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and certificate of origin if requesting preferential duty rates.
5. Arrange customs clearance — Work with a licensed customs broker or use your freight forwarder's brokerage service.

Common Pitfalls

• Mis-classifying goods to lower duties — this is illegal and leads to fines or shipment seizure.
• Forgetting to check sanctions lists — always screen the buyer and destination against OFAC, EU, and UN sanctions.
• Missing phytosanitary or veterinary certificates for food and agricultural products.