The short answer
7AS Trust Logistics clears imports and exports through ICUMS at Tema Port, Takoradi Port and Kotoka International Airport. With complete documents and prompt duty payment, most containers at Tema are released in two to four working days. Every file gets an itemised quote and a named account manager.
What our clearance service covers
- Pre-arrival review of the B/L, invoice, packing list and permits
- HS classification with the tariff line shown on your quote
- Declaration lodgement on ICUMS and duty computation
- Responses to valuation and classification queries
- Examination booking, scanning and physical inspection attendance
- Shipping-line release, delivery order and terminal charges
- Exemptions and reliefs: Free Zones, GIPC incentives, project and diplomatic
- Hand-over to haulage, warehousing or transit
Why we lodge before the vessel berths
Free time at the terminal and on the container is short. Most of the days lost at Tema are lost before the declaration is filed: a permit applied for too late, a vague invoice line that cannot be classified, a consignee name that does not match the importer. We review your documents while the ship is at sea, so the entry is ready to lodge the day the manifest is available.
Typical Tema timeline: two to four working days with complete documents. Physical examination, a valuation query or a pending permit adds time. We tell you at quote stage if your cargo type is often selected for examination.
Gateways we clear
| Gateway | Cargo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tema Port | Containers, vehicles, break-bulk | Head office on site; transit origin for the Sahel |
| Takoradi Port | Mining, energy, bulk, project cargo | Western Region clients |
| Kotoka Airport | Air cargo, express, perishables, spares | Same-day release is possible for simple entries |
What your clearance bill is made of
Two parts, always shown separately on our quote. Government charges: import duty, levies, NHIL, GETFund and VAT, assessed by GRA from your HS code and CIF value. Service charges: terminal handling, shipping-line fees, examination, any storage, and our agency fee. Use the duty calculator for a first figure and the landed cost guide for the full picture.
Frequently asked questions
How long does customs clearance take at Tema Port?
Two to four working days is typical with complete documents and prompt duty payment. Examination, valuation queries or missing permits add time.
Can clearance start before my cargo arrives?
Yes. We prepare the entry during the voyage and lodge it on ICUMS once the manifest is available, so release can follow soon after discharge.
What happens if Customs disputes my value or HS code?
We assemble supporting evidence (supplier invoices, specifications, catalogues, previous assessments) and handle the query with Customs, keeping you updated at each step.
Do you clear goods for Free Zone companies?
Yes. We process Free Zone and other exemption entries, provided the approvals are in place before the goods arrive.
Can I pay duty directly to the bank myself?
Yes. Duty is paid to GRA through designated banks. Many clients pay directly and send us the receipt; we can also handle it for you.
