Inside Bonded Warehouses: Trade’s Secure Hub

A bonded warehouse is a facility where imported goods can be stored, manipulated, or undergo manufacturing operations without payment of duty. These warehouses are supervised by customs authorities, and they play a crucial role in international trade. Many major ports and logistics hubs have bonded warehouses to support the flow of goods.

There are two kinds of bonded warehouses — wet and dry. Wet bonded warehouses allow for the storage of alcohol and goods that are subject to excise duty, such as tobacco and fuels while dry can store goods subject to customs duty and VAT but not excise duty.

Why bonded warehouses are essential?

1. Temporary storage without customs duties: When goods arrive in a country, they are typically subject to customs duties and taxes. However, if the goods are moved to a bonded warehouse, they can be stored there without the immediate payment of these duties.
2. Delayed duty payment: The payment of customs duties is deferred until the goods leave the bonded warehouse. This allows businesses to manage their cash flow more effectively, as they can defer duty payment until the goods are sold or otherwise disposed of.
3. Value-added services: Bonded warehouses often offer various value-added services, such as labeling, sorting, and repackaging. This allows businesses to customize their products for the local market without incurring customs duties until the modified goods leave the bonded warehouse.
4. Re-exportation: Goods stored in a bonded warehouse can be re-exported without paying duties if they are shipped to another country. This is beneficial for businesses engaged in international trade and transit.
5. Duty exemption for certain goods: Some goods, like those intended for manufacturing or processing, may be exempt from customs duties while in a bonded warehouse. This encourages businesses to engage in value-added activities within the host country.
6. Facilitating trade: Bonded warehouses facilitate international trade by reducing the financial burden on businesses and streamlining customs procedures. They promote efficiency in supply chain management.

Benefits for goods

Cost savings: Businesses can save on immediate duty payments and use the funds for other purposes until the goods are sold.

Flexibility: Bonded warehouses provide flexibility for businesses to adapt to market demands as they can hold and modify inventory without incurring duty costs.

International trade facilitation: Bonded warehouses promote international trade by simplifying customs procedures and encouraging the re-exportation of goods.

Compliance & Regulations

Bonded warehouses play a crucial role in international trade by providing a secure storage facility for goods before they undergo customs clearance.

Documented Goods: Proper documentation of goods is essential for customs purposes. This includes accurate records of the type, quantity, and value of the stored items. Thorough documentation ensures compliance with customs regulations and facilitates the smooth movement of goods through the import/export process.

24/7 security monitoring: The presence of security personnel around the clock adds an extra layer of protection. Security professionals are responsible for monitoring the premises, responding to alarms or suspicious activities, and ensuring the overall safety and integrity of the stored goods.

Detailed assessment and auditing: Bonded warehouses undergo detailed assessments and regular audits to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This not only includes security measures but also involves verifying the accuracy of documentation and adherence to customs procedures.

The specific regulations and the number of bonded warehouses can be found in the customs laws and regulations of each country. It is advisable for businesses involved in international trade to work closely with customs authorities and logistics experts to navigate the complexities of bonded warehousing.

Aurobees is a platform designed for Smes dealing with multimodal transportation. We cater to industries such as freight forwarding, warehousing, e-commerce fulfilment, transportation, manufacturing, trading, and distribution.