What is a certificate of origin

If you are faced with the need to obtain a certificate of origin during the transportation of goods, do not be alarmed, it is not as complicated as it may seem at first glance. Let us tell you what it is all about.

A certificate of origin (COO) is a document that confirms the country/place of origin of a product. It indicates where the product/good or substance was produced, obtained or processed. Typically, such a certificate is required by the country’s customs authority as part of the import clearance process.

Why do I need a certificate of origin?

If you are shipping goods to different countries around the world, then be prepared to provide a certificate of origin for the goods you are shipping. This is often due to economic, political or environmental reasons, for example, if there are import quotas, sanctions, boycotts or anti-dumping measures. A COO is also required for certain products of animal and plant origin that are subject to the CITES agreement.

How do I know if I need a COO?

Information on the need for a certificate of origin is available from the local chamber of commerce or the relevant government agency.

How and where to get a certificate?

Certificates of origin are issued by the local chamber of commerce. You can apply for a certificate of origin directly or on their websites (the service is not available everywhere). Please note that a separate copy of the COO should be issued for each batch of goods.

Sometimes, you can entrust the issuance of a COO to a freight forwarder, customs broker or your representative. In some cases, you may need to issue a power of attorney for such persons.

You may also need to obtain legal approval of the COO from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or an embassy. This procedure takes much longer and requires direct contact with the relevant authorities.

What are certificates of origin?

There are two types of COOs:

• non-preferential. It is issued if the imported goods are not subject to any special export regime from the country in which they were produced. This type of document is only used to indicate the origin of your goods;
• preferential. It is issued for goods delivered from countries with which a trade agreement has been concluded. Such a document proves that the imported goods are subject to reduced import duties.

Which countries require a certificate of origin?

As a rule, a certificate of origin is required for delivery:

• from the European Union to a country with an EU trade agreement (document EUR.1 or EUR-MED);
• between Canada, USA and Mexico (NAFTA);
• between the USA, Central America and the Dominican Republic (CAFTA-DR);
• to some countries of the Middle East and Africa;
• to China, India, Malaysia or Singapore.

Remember that a COO may be required in any country for any product, so it is important to first consult with the local chamber of commerce regarding the need for such a document.

What information do I need to provide on the certificate of origin form?

Specify:

• name and contact information of the exporter;
• name of the manufacturer and his contacts, if this information differs from the data of the exporter;
• recipient’s name and contact information;
• a clear description of the goods, including the HS Code, quantity/volume/weight;
• country of origin;
• air waybill number;
• types of transport and information about the route (optional);
• notes (optional);
• commercial account number(s) and date(s) (optional).

If you have any questions regarding the transportation of parcels or goods to different countries of the world, you can always ask our specialists. The GlobalPost company works for you and your comfort – contact right now!