Customs Clearance Services
We Clear the Way – So Your Cargo Keeps Moving
At Addis Asqual, we understand how complicated and frustrating customs procedures can be. Whether you’re importing goods for your business, moving cargo across borders, or trying to meet tight deadlines, we’re here to make things easier.
With over two decades of experience, we’ve helped clients—big and small—navigate the complex world of customs clearance with confidence. From embassies and NGOs to private companies and first-time shippers, we’ve seen it all and handled it all.
How We Help
Here’s what you can count on when you work with Addis Asqual
01
We guide you through the paperwork
We guide you through the paperwork and make sure it meets customs standards. While we don’t prepare commercial invoices or packing lists ourselves, we thoroughly review all required documents to ensure they meet Ethiopian Customs standards. We also assist with permit applications, guide you through the necessary forms, and can help you apply for cargo insurance when needed. Our goal is to make sure everything is in order—so your shipment clears without delays or surprises.
02
We make sense of duties and taxes
Ethiopia’s import tax structure is multifaceted, encompassing customs duties, VAT, excise taxes, welfare tax and other levies. Customs duties range from 0% to 35%, influenced by the type of goods and their intended use. Additionally, a 15% VAT applies to most imports, with certain exemptions for essential commodities. Excise taxes and a 3% withholding tax may also be applicable, depending on the product category. Additionally, a new 3% Social Welfare Levy has been introduced on all imported goods, regardless of other taxes paid. This levy is calculated on the aggregate cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of the goods and is in addition to other applicable duties and taxes.
Our team meticulously calculates these taxes using the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS Codes), ensuring accurate tariff classifications and preventing overpayment. We also assist in securing duty-free status for eligible goods, such as capital equipment for manufacturing, by navigating the necessary regulatory channels.
03
We deal with Customs so you don’t have to
Navigating Ethiopian customs procedures can be intricate, involving multiple steps and documentation. Our experienced team liaises directly with the Ethiopian Customs Commission, border officials, and port agents to facilitate the clearance process. We prepare and submit all required documents, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, and packing lists, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
We also manage the payment of duties and taxes on your behalf, streamlining the process and reducing the risk of delays. Our proactive approach ensures that your cargo moves efficiently from port to warehouse, minimizing downtime and optimizing your supply chain.
04
We stay updated on the rules
Customs regulations in Ethiopia are subject to frequent changes, influenced by economic policies, trade agreements, and international standards. Our team stays abreast of these developments, ensuring that your imports comply with the latest laws and tariffs. For instance, Ethiopia’s membership in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) offers preferential tariff rates for goods originating from member countries.
We also monitor changes in VAT exemptions and duty-free privileges, such as those available for investors in industrial zones or under specific investment incentives. By keeping you informed and compliant, we help you avoid potential fines and delays, allowing you to focus on your core business operations.
Our Job Is to Make Your Job Easier
We provide full customs support for air, land, and sea shipments—whether it’s a single-mode (unimodal) or a multi-modal journey that passes through multiple points.
Unimodal & Multimodal Shipments
Whether your goods come by truck from Djibouti, air cargo through Bole, or a mix of sea and inland transport via Dry Port, we coordinate the process from start to finish.
We’re experts in:
- Unimodal shipments (single-mode, e.g. truck only)
- Multimodal shipments (combining sea, rail, and road)
- Coordinating transitions between Djibouti Port, Dry Port, and final destinations in Ethiopia
Djibouti Port Clearance
We work on the ground at Djibouti, coordinating with port agents and customs to clear your goods quickly and efficiently—no miscommunication, no unnecessary delays.
Whether its full container loads, consolidated cargo, or sensitive goods, we manage:
- Bill of Lading corrections
- Port handling and offloading
- Timely clearance and inland forwarding
Dry Port Services (Khality, Modjo, Adama, etc.)
Once cargo reaches Ethiopia, we handle clearance at the dry ports with:
- Coordination between shipping lines and customs
- Payment facilitation and tracking
- Trucking arrangements for final delivery
We make sure your goods don’t sit waiting. We get them moving.
Who We Work With
We provide customs support for a wide range of clients:
- NGOs & humanitarian organizations
- Embassies & diplomatic offices
- Import/export companies
- Retailers & manufacturers
- Individuals relocating or shipping personal items
Why Choose Addis Asqual?
We provide customs support for a wide range of clients:
- Over 24 years of hands-on experience
- Trusted by top organizations and businesses
- Friendly, knowledgeable support that’s always just a call away
- We treat your cargo like it’s our own
