Top Reasons Why Obtaining Export Declaration Number Gets Difficult

Top Reasons Why Obtaining Export Declaration Number Gets Difficult

It seems simple to apply for and obtain an export declaration number (EDN). As an exporter, you declare the details about the goods you wish to export. Next, you submit this export declaration to the Australian Border Force (ABF). If everything is accurate and as per the prescribed format, they issue an EDN that makes the further shipment path smooth. Still, a number of exporters often get stuck during the process, leading to delays, penalties and too much hassle.

In general, there are some common issues in this direction that can be easily addressed using the right kind of electronic tools. Let’s discuss some of them one by one.

Manual Processes

Though the ABF accepts export declaration both electronically and at various counters, it is better to choose the first option. Doing it manually may lead to the situations like:

• Unnecessary wastage of valuable time in visiting the designated counters

• Errors and missed-out details due to human ignorance

• Late response to the enquiries and objections

• Poor organization of information

On the other hand, you can smoothly contact the ABF’s Integrated Cargo System (ICS) electronically for fast processing. It reduces the chances of errors, information mismanagement and time consumed dramatically.

Desktop Applications

Clearly, using an electronic tool to apply for EDN is a great idea. However, you may go wrong in choosing the right kind of software application. For example, choosing a desktop-based application may restrict the benefits you anticipate from the electronic procedure. Find out how:

• Increased cost of installing and maintaining the application

• Repeated upgrading of the software to the latest versions

• Limited access as you might not be present in front of your computer all the time

Contrary to the desktop solutions, a cloud-based software may prove to be much more useful. First, you don’t need to install it on your desktop, as it can be accessed using a browser. Second, you don’t need to worry about upgrading. Third, you can access it anytime and from any place using a PC, laptop or smartphone. Moreover, it reduces reliance on others for resolving the technical issues.

Digital Certificates

It should be noted that submitting export declaration electronically may add a new cost to your export budgets. In order to communicate with the ICS, you would need a digital certificate to keep things secure. While buying one such certificate can increase your costs, you may also need to spend money periodically to renew it.

However, you may eliminate this cost if you use the export declaration submission services of a reliable agency. These agencies maintain digital certificates that multiple clients can use to submit their respective export declarations.

Besides addressing these issues, an electronic tool may ensure some additional advantages like:

• High security while communicating electronically so that none of your critical business details gets leaked.

• Fast and hassle-free status tracking and reporting which not only saves time but also allows better business analysis.

• Support for multiple users in a secure manner that permits exporters to authorize more than one employee to be able to submit export declarations.

• No need to contact and rely on third-party agents, but full control on the entire process while enjoying complete transparency.

• Invest in a single software to obtain the EDN and also to prepare other important export documents.

To conclude, a cloud-based software from an agency which offers added benefits like complete export documentation, training and digital certificates can make export declaration filing easier. As a first time user, make sure you study the information regarding ICS in advance to make the best use of it.