- Filling out the NAFTA form is actually quite easy. Online forms are available that allow you to type in the information and save it to your computer.
The form collects basic information such as the names, addresses and tax identification numbers of the exporter, producer (manufacturer) and importer. Oftentimes the exporter and producer are one. In this case you would enter SAME in the Producer field. - There are specific items that need to be entered on the certificate for validation. These include:
The Blanket Period. This refers to the calendar period importing and exporting of the product is valid under the certificate. The blanket period entered cannot be longer than one year.
The Description of Goods. These are the items being exported.
The HS Tariff Classification Number. This can be a little tricky. HS means harmonization system, so the classification number is a code that has been assigned to your type of product. This number is also known as the Schedule B code. Any business selling merchandise internationally has to assign a code number on the certificate to the shipped products. You can look up codes for your particular product on a current database of codes online at the government Trade Information Center.
The Preference Criterion is a code that is determined by a schedule on the backside of the NAFTA form. The product must meet at least one of the criterion listed in order to be entitled to NAFTA benefits.
The Producer section is straightforward. The exporter is either the producer or not. If you are the producer you would enter YES, if not, you enter NO.
The Net Cost field is a YES or NO answer. There is an explanation of the Net Cost field on the backside of the NAFTA form.
The Country of Origin field is self explanatory. Depending upon the country of origin of the product you will enter CA, US or MEX.
Lastly, section 11 of the form is a legal declaration that must be completed and signed by the exporter or the producer for use by the exporter. - NAFTA fields should be entered in all caps.
Be sure to have the correct HS Tariff Classification Number for your product entered on your NAFTA form. This can alleviate a multitude of import and export problems with your product in customs.