July 20, 2023

PASSAR updates

Timeline

Passar is the new Customs system that will replace the NCTS and E-DEC applications.

The work plan will be developed over several years and will be completed by the end of 2026.

This process will simplify, harmonize, and digitize the customs processes related to transit, export and import operations.

Automation is expected to speed up border crossings and eliminate the need to present documents at the counter. The NCTS and E-DEC programs will no longer be developed and will be phased out. Also at the European level, an update of the transit system is planned, which will move on to Phase 5. October 31st will be the last day for the submission of the last NCTS declaration. While on December 1, 2023, NCTS will be definitively deactivated. Read here the previous article about PASSAR. Differences for SA (Export) with PASSAR The major differences, as I understand, can be summarized as follows:

Transit is always preceded by an export process. This involves using e-dec Export with SendToPassar or Passar Export. The previous two-stage transit with deferred export is no longer allowed.

The transit is activated by the customs office when the journey begins from the domicile to the border.

For international activation upon crossing the border, a transport declaration is required. Initially, this declaration is optional.

A tariff number, which is a minimum 6-digit HS code, is needed for the transit process.

The export processes include e-dec Export with SendToPassar and Passar Export. The Passar Export should include the tariff number and is documented in the Consignment Items section of the transit goods declaration (NT015).

Differences for DA (IMPORT) with PASSAR

Differences in Receiving Goods as DA:

1. Transport Declaration

When a truck arrives, it must have a transport declaration issued based on the truck plate.

2. Announcement of Arrival

The DA department announces the arrival (NT007) of the transit documents associated with the truck.

3. Unloading Authorization

Customs sends the unloading authorization (NT008) to the DA department.

4. Inventory Request

Customs initiates an inventory request (NT043).

5. Parcel Counting

The Warehouse department counts the parcels.

6. Status of Goods Receipt

The DA department sends the status of goods receipt (NT044).

7. Goods Release

Goods are released only after the receipt of acceptance of inventory (NT057) and the release message (NT025) sent to the DA department by the customs department.

8. Correct Inventory Result

If the inventory result is correct, the release notification is generated.

9. Non-compliant Inventory Result

In the case of a non-compliant inventory result, the customs officer announces the release after consulting the DA department.

10. Release and Process

Goods can be released only after the completion of the inventory process, and they can be processed only after receiving the release notice. This differs from the existing agreements in the DA process.

Transport Declaration:

In the future a transport declaration will be required for crossing the border in both directions for trucks and other related vehicles.

The transport declaration can be submitted through Declare-it, ePortail Transportcockpit, Activ application, or manually with the assistance of a customs officer at the border.

The border crossing activation can be done through the Activ application or through telematics, with further development by UDSC still pending.

The transport declaration is initially optional until January 1, 2025.