Errors in customs declarations are still the most expensive miscalculation of importers and exporters. According to data for the first quarter of 2025, the customs authorities initiated over 660 criminal cases, and the vast majority of violations were administrative offenses under Chapter 16 of the Administrative Code — 27,173 cases were opened. In 2024, the additional charges for episodes of incorrect declaration alone exceeded 9 billion rubles, showing that the problem is systemic.
One of the key sources of risks remains the incorrect definition of the HS code. This code does not just affect the amount of the fee — the requirements for permits, labeling, certification, and even the possibility of applying benefits depend on it. An example is illustrative: if you mistakenly specify a code for textiles instead of children's toys, the duty rate will increase from 5% to 12%, and additional documents may be required that the participant in foreign economic activity does not have on hand. The result is production stoppage, adjustments, fines, and delivery delays.
A common illusion among novice importers is an attempt to "save money" by underestimating the customs value. In practice, Customs compares the declared price with references for similar and similar goods, with public price lists and information available in its own databases. The revealed "underestimation" leads to additional charges, penalties and fines. In addition, the cost adjustment entails a revision of VAT on imports, which increases the financial burden and complicates accounting.
Do not underestimate the "little things" in the logistical indicators. Even a small discrepancy in weight or quantity — at the level of one hundred grams — can be the basis for an inspection. Practice shows that such control stretches the release from one day to a week: the cargo will be spent on opening, recalculation, re-weighing and reconciliation of shipping documents. If the information is incorrect, the declarant receives a fine and the need to rework the declaration.
A separate block of problems is related to the translation of titles and descriptions. Machine translation or inattention to terms often distort the meaning of the product. A seemingly harmless "candle" turned into a "lamp" radically changes the classification and set of mandatory characteristics. The error forces us to re-prepare the package of documents, edit invoices, specifications and, as a result, to re-declare the goods.
The country of origin is another element that is often filled in formally. Meanwhile, preferential treatment and duty exemptions operate on a point-by-point basis and require confirmation by certificates. Preferential rates can be used for products from Serbia, while the same product from China is subject to full duty, and this should be correctly reflected in the contract. Any discrepancy leads to loss of benefits and financial sanctions.
What should a business do to avoid adding to the statistics of violations? First, we need to establish a pre-classification procedure: collect samples, technical descriptions, photos, catalogs and, if necessary, receive preliminary classification decisions. Secondly, to ensure high-quality logistical training: weight and size control in the sender's warehouse, accuracy of packing lists, and reconciliation of quantities for each SKU. Thirdly, to introduce bilingual glossaries and translation regulations for product cards in order to eliminate semantic errors in the translation of names and characteristics.
It is also important to establish internal control of the customs value: supporting documents on the transaction price, payments, specifications and contracts with a clear structure of transportation, insurance and packaging costs. This will reduce the risk of adjustments and allow you to reasonably defend the cost during desk inspections. For goods applying for preferences, the completeness of certificates of origin and the rules for filling them out should be checked in advance.
If, nevertheless, the goods are detained or an inspection is scheduled, it is worthwhile to promptly interact with the customs post: provide the missing documents, explanations on classification, photos and videos of packaging. Fast and transparent communication reduces downtime and reduces the likelihood of dispute escalation. In difficult cases, it makes sense to involve specialized consultants and prepare alternative codes with justifications so as not to delay the release.
The practice of the first months of 2025 confirms that the price of a mistake in the DT is not only an additional duty and fine, but also a loss of time, delay in shipping, increased storage costs and damage to relations with the buyer. Companies that base the process on preventive checks and data quality standards significantly reduce the frequency of inspections and the number of complaints from the FCS. In the context of stricter controls, it is the discipline in documents that becomes a competitive advantage and a real way to maintain margins.
