B-2-5- The certificate of origin


Dealing with transport logistics is particular, and requires many documents to be presented at border crossings. Indeed, during clearance procedures, it's necessary to present all documents related to the goods for export. The origin certificate is one of these documents. It informs the customs services of the origin of the goods.

The goods' origin impacts the customs duties amount, and is therefore important.

2-5-1- The certificate of origin: definition

Customs services can request a certificate of origin if an English company has transacted with a company in a country that has not signed an agreement with the European Union. As opposed to the EUR1 document, the certificate of origin is a movement certificate. This second document is requested in cases of goods coming from the European Community with an intended destination in countries that have preferential signed agreements

The certificate of origin must be endorsed, otherwise it has no value. In simplified export procedures, the certificate of origin must be endorsed by customs services.

It is uniform across the European Community.

2-5-2- The presentation of the document

The presentation of the certificate of origin must occur at the customs office during all export and/or import procedures, depending on the type of operation (or, for example, within the scope of a documentary credit).

2-5-3- The certificate of origin: the document

The certificate appears in the form of an application form that must be filled out. The necessary form is available at that chamber of commerce and/or through a freight forwarder. There are a certain number of copies, with one intended for the chamber of commerce.

The language used for the certificate of origin must be English or a European language. In the second case, it must be translated. It can be modified only after an authorized visa.

Detailed content of the certificate of origin :
  • shipper of the goods,
  • consignee of the goods,
  • country of origin,,
  • the goods' mode of transport,
  • notes,
  • description of the goods,
  • quantity,
  • authorized endorsement (visa),
  • date and signature.

2-5-4- The certificate of origin: accreditation

The certificate of origin is unique in that it must be completed by an accredited party. Indeed, the person who fills out the certificate is legally liable.

2-5-5- The electronic certificate of origin

The certificate of origin is now available electronically in some countries.