In international trade, carefully following the customs regulations is necessary for smooth delivery of your cargo. Same goes with D.R. Congo
Democratic Republic of Congo is also called D.R. Congo or D.R.C.
For businesses importing into D.R.C, securing a FERI (Fiche Électronique des Renseignements a l’Importation) is a must step. In simple words, it’s an Electronic Cargo Tracking Note.
This electronic certificate validates compliance with D.R.C’s customs regulations and also facilitates the smooth transit of your cargo. In this complete guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of acquiring a D.R.C FERI, required documents, potential penalties, processing timelines, and other essential steps.
D.R.C’s FERI is also known as BSC, BESC, ECTN, or CTN.
Understanding the Essence of FERI
Before diving deep into the intricacies of FERI process, it’s vital to understand pivotal role of D.R.C FERI. This electronic cargo tracking note stands as a prerequisite for goods destined for D.R.C.
It serves as an evidence that you follow the nation’s customs regulations, avoiding potential delays, fines, or cargo rejections upon entry in D.R.C.
Step 1- Compiling Essential Documentation
Begin your journey towards obtaining the D.R.C FERI. It requires accurate compilation of essential documents as listed below:
- Bill of Lading (B/L): This document contains vital cargo particulars, including type, quantity, destination, and shipment terms.
- Commercial Invoice: This commercial invoice provides a comprehensive details of the commercial transaction between buyer and seller. It delineates the cargo’s value and payment terms.
- Freight Invoice: This document shows financial dimension of your cargo transportation, the freight cost document contains freight charges, handling fees, and other related costs.
- FXI Number: It needs to be provided by the importer. FXI is a reference number that is provided to importers when they open their Import license. It enable the correct verification and execution and assists in avoiding delays and extra charges.
Step 2- Hiring Authorized Consultant like us
Now you need to hire officially recognized consultant like us at ctncertificate.com. This move will take the burden off your shoulders to process your FERI application. These experts possess a deep knowledge and experience on D.R.C’s customs regulations and will play a crucial role to navigate through the process and get you the FERI. They assist in document validation, correspondence and facilitate the seamless submission of your FERI application.
Step 3- Application Submission
Your consultant will now submit your application after making sure that all the information is correct and complete. Precision and attention to detail is required any inaccuracies could lead to potential delays.
Step 4- Document Scrutiny and Validation
Upon submission, D.R.C’s customs authorities will review your application and documents. Depending on cargo specifics, additional scrutiny and validation might be conducted.
Your consultant will ensure that prompt correspondence is being done between all parties to make sure that your scrutiny and validation goes smoothly.
Step 5- FERI Issuance
Following successful scrutiny and validation, D.R.C’s customs authorities will issue the FERI certificate. This document serves as evidence that your cargo follows D.R.C’s customs regulations, authorizing its import.
The validity period of the FERI certificate depends on multiple factors such as time, cargo type and final destination.
FERI Processing Timeframe
We provide draft FERI within 24 hours depending on submission. FERI can take from a day to few weeks due to reasons like backlog volume at the authority, complexity of the documents, time of submission, holidays etc.
Penalties and Adherence
Neglecting to adhere to FERI regulations can lead to penalties, ranging from fines to shipment delays. To avoid such consequences, make sure you take care and attention to detail. Working closely with your FERI provider is very important.
