DHL introduces Trade Automation Service to simplify international shipping
Global express delivery leader DHL today announced the launch of a new online international shipping resource designed to take the guess work out of estimating duties, taxes and other customs-related charges. The new Trade Automation Service (TAS) is one of the most comprehensive databases available, providing trade and customs data covering more than 64 countries that are responsible for 95% of the world’s trade.
Through TAS, DHL offers customers a convenient way to take advantage of the Company’s expertise as the global leader in package delivery. In fact, by this September, TAS will cover more than 72 countries that are responsible for 99% of the world’s trade.
“TAS simplifies international shipping in a time when cross-border trade is increasing and companies often must have this information at their fingertips to ensure timely deliveries,” said Steve Bandrowczak, chief information officer for DHL Americas. “By using TAS, customers are able to save valuable time and avoid unnecessary delays in customs due to incorrect documentation. TAS arms them with the correct information to be precise with trade tariffs and regulations before a shipment is sent.”
TAS users can take full control of the information flows and processes that accompany international shipment transactions. Following are the unique tools available:
— Landed-Cost Calculator: Estimates duties, taxes and other customs-related charges for shipments in order to access export and import costs upfront.
— Product Compliance: Verifies that the shipment complies with country export and import regulations such as quotas or licensing rules to avoid costly delays or penalties.
— Comparative Landing Costs and Product Compliance: Allows comparison of charges and rules between two or more countries in order to make the best sourcing or distribution decisions.
— Trade Documents: Contains general documents required for international trade, logistics and customs transactions for smooth customs clearance.
— Interactive Classification: Searches for Harmonized System (HS) or Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) commodity codes, enabling quick and accurate classification of a wide range of products.
— Restricted Party Screening: Checks shipper and receiver details against government lists, embargos and sanctions so customers can ensure global compliance.
“At DHL, we build our offerings around what our customers need, not what our systems dictate,” said Bandrowczak. “TAS offers comprehensive international shipping information, and we are continuing to expand this offering to make certain we meet the growing needs of our customers.”
Customers can access TAS online by visiting the DHL USA homepage at http://www.DHL-USA.com and clicking on the “International Services” link to begin navigating the system through simple point and click functionality. The service is available with three subscription options. Additionally, TAS will be offered as a customized system to businesses with unique shipping needs or those that ship high volumes of international packages.
