Whether you’re coming to Jamaica as a returning resident or are relocating because of a job transfer or even if you’re merely shipping packages to family or friends in Jamaica. Knowing the rules and laws of the place can help you avoid some major monetary losses and save time.
If you’re planning on shipping goods to Jamaica, take care of the following few tips to ensure a timely and hassle-free delivery:
Research the Shipping Laws
Shipping and customs laws differ from place to place. If you’re planning on shipping goods to Jamaica, it is essential that you be aware of the rules and regulations of the place. Shipping items worth $500 or more into Jamaica requires you to apply for a Waiver of Duty from the Ministry of Finance, which must be submitted 21 days in advance of the day of shipment.
When your shipment arrives on shore of the Jamaican port, it may be liable for certain taxes and duties that cannot be waived.
Certain items, such as milk powder, refined sugar, certain chemicals, motor vehicles and parts and vegetable saps and extracts require a special import license before they can be exported to Jamaica.
The common documents required to successfully ship to Jamaica include:
- A Supplier Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin
- (For certain products only) Sanitary or Phytosanitary Certification.
Research the Market Access Conditions
Market access conditions are variables such as customs, non-tariff barriers and free trade agreements. These can create hurdles in the shipping process, which may require money and time to clear. If your shipment has been labeled incorrectly, or does not meet the requirements of shipping to Jamaica, it could get hit with unexpected tariffs or penalties, or may even get confiscated by customs.
Packing Correctly
Before sending your shipment off to Jamaica, make sure they are packed correctly to avoid the risk of damage during transit. Never reuse cardboard boxes—especially if you’re exporting glassware—as these lose their strength by 50% during each shipment. Seal all sides of your package, including the top, bottom and all sides to prevent the risk of weather or transit damage to your goods.
Double and triple check the bill of lading, and all other documents to ensure the information on them is correct and valid. You wouldn’t want your shipment to end up in Jordan instead of Jamaica!
About Quality One International Shipping Express
Expert general freight exporters, Quality One International Shipping Express have the expertise necessary to get all your shipments through customs and to their destinations with little to no hassle at all.
Whether you’re a business looking to ship to Jamaica or a returning resident, contact us for a worry-free process. We also offer free quotations to all our customers prior to making any contracts. Contact us today!
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