Importing from China into Tanzania: what to sort before the container leaves

A client of ours sourced a shipment in China and brought it into Tanzania through Panta Noura. We cleared it. It was a challenge, and it worked.

What stalled

The client had arranged clearing through the supplier's freight forwarder in China, and had paid for it there. When the shipment arrived, customs asked for further payment.

Because our team on the ground knows the process, we gathered the supporting evidence and the proofs of payment, went to the offices in person and resolved it.

How long it took

Once the shipment landed, we had it sorted within days, complications included.

The paperwork

Questions were raised about the documents along the way. We stayed with the process, had the correct documents and evidence ready, and dealt with the offices in the local language. Being able to answer each question properly, in person, is what kept it moving.

What we would do differently

We would not pay for clearing through the supplier's freight forwarder. We would clear in Tanzania and pay all duties on arrival, and we would confirm the exact tariff codes and duties beforehand, so that when it is time to pay, every figure can be checked against a number we already know.

Sourcing is one skill and clearing is another. The best moment to involve the people who will clear the goods is before the shipment is booked, not after it lands.

Bringing goods into Tanzania?Tell us what you are importing.