Clearing goods through Tanzania’s ports—especially the busy Port of Dar es Salaam—can seem complex if you’re unfamiliar with the process. At Waxbill Freight & Logistics, we help our clients navigate every stage smoothly and compliantly. Whether you’re importing or exporting, this guide breaks down the customs clearance process in Tanzania step by step.
Step1: Register with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)
Before clearing any goods, you must be registered as an importer or exporter with the TRA.
Requirements include:
Tax Identification Number (TIN)
VAT registration (if applicable)
Business registration certificate
If you’re a first-time importer/exporter, Waxbill can help with registration and compliance.
Step 2: Obtain Required Import/Export Permits
Depending on the nature of your cargo, you may need specific permits or licenses from regulatory authorities such as:
Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)
Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA)
Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC)
Plant or animal health authorities (if applicable)
We assist clients in securing all necessary approvals before the cargo arrives.
Step 3: Submit Bill of Lading and Shipping Documents
Once the goods are in transit, you’ll need to prepare and submit the key documents for customs processing:
Original Bill of Lading (or Waybill)
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Import/Export permits (as required)
Freight and insurance documentation
These documents are submitted electronically via the Tanzania Customs Integrated System (TANCIS).
Step 4: Customs Declaration and Assessment
Waxbill’s licensed clearing agents lodge your declaration through TANCIS using the Single Administrative Document (SAD).
TRA will:
Assess duties and taxes
Verify cargo classification and value
Issue a customs assessment notice
Step 5: Payment of Duties and Taxes
Once assessment is complete, applicable taxes and fees must be paid. These may include:
Import duty
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Excise duty (if applicable)
Port handling and storage fees
We handle these payments on your behalf, ensuring receipts are processed without delay.
Step 6: Inspection and Physical Verification
Some shipments are selected for physical inspection by customs or other regulatory bodies. This ensures the cargo matches the declared documents and complies with local regulations.
Note: Pre-shipment inspections are required for some goods under the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) scheme.
Step 7: Port Clearance and Cargo Release
Once verification is complete and all fees are settled, customs will release the goods for pickup.
Waxbill coordinates:
Terminal handling
Port exit formalities
Last-mile delivery to your warehouse or facility
Why Choose Waxbill for Port Clearance Services?
End-to-end documentation support
Efficient coordination with TRA, TBS, and port authorities
Real-time updates and cargo tracking
Clearing goods through Tanzania’s ports doesn’t have to be a headache. With Waxbill by your side, you get reliable support, compliance assurance, and timely clearance—every time.