Etienne Clémentel helped to found The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) a century ago, to serve world business by promoting open markets.
As we write this in October 2022, even though his ideas have gone, the chancellor’s September statement remains on government websites. He has also gone, the prime minister joined him and another arrived in Downing Street.
This lack of stability is hardly good for business. If we had to pick one reason from many for the existence of ATA carnets, the international credibility they offer would be first in line.
Being controlled by global, non political bodies is the primary reason they are accepted in so many nations, without being questioned.
Broader Rationale
Customs departments across the planet aren’t keen on failing to collect sums due to them. The ATA carnet international guarantee chain offers certainty that duties and taxes will be paid, if goods are not re-exported.
Each country has a single guaranteeing organization, approved by customs authorities and the ICC. Payments will be met and the same organisations are responsible for issuing carnets, fraudulent documents are more or less unknown.
Those documents are accepted across most of the developed world and beyond. Few systems have ever existed with similar levels of agreement and the ability to facilitate trade with a neighbour, or across continents.
ATA carnets are a helpful coalition between customs and business, which bring cooperation on an international scale.
Practical Benefits
A system which allows the tax and duty free temporary import, or export of goods helps us all to take advantage of the global economy. Costs, delays, admin and support needs are reduced by using what is a passport for goods.
As with any passport, there is a degree of admin and a fee but these are more than offset by the ability to cross borders with relative ease. An advantage which gives business the efficiency needed to plan.
Beyond perishable goods, or those for repair, there isn’t much which fails to fit a carnet category. From exhibition needs, to media work, to attending events, to offering your trade, or service, you are likely to be covered.
Once you have a carnet in place, this can normally be used cost free as many times as you wish for a year. ATA carnets can support transit needs in most member countries and crossing the EU’s internal borders.
Professional Support
ATA carnets are not difficult documents to use, or to obtain but they need to be accurate and meet your needs. A little professional support can go a long way, which is the reason organisations exist to assist with carnets.
Dynamic Dox are one of those and the leader in the UK, in terms of numbers and effectiveness. Neither are you required to pay more for your carnet, because you obtained this from a specialist supplier who supports all aspects.
A wider version of the assistance you can see from hire, or equipment suppliers, who provide detailed lists in carnet format. You could create these yourself but mistakes are avoided, which contributes to a hassle free journey.
That is our reason for existence, in line with the rationale for carnets. Ensuring that your admin is reduced, business travel for you and your goods is not impeded and ATA carnets can offer the freedom they should.