Zambia Customs Clearing FAQs: Imports, Exports and Fees
Answers to commonly asked questions about import and export clearing, required information, nationwide service and getting a quotation.
Frequently asked questions
Helpful answers before you start a clearing enquiry.
What services does Three Stripes provide?
We provide import and export customs-clearing services for businesses and individuals across Zambia. Contact us about the goods, route and documents involved in your shipment.
Where is the company located?
Our office is at Plot Number 47, Kafubu Road, Livingstone, Zambia. We assist customers nationwide through our enquiry and contact channels.
How do I request an import-clearing quotation?
Send us the goods description, quantity, supplier country, intended entry point, Zambian destination and expected arrival date. Include details from any invoice and shipping paperwork you already have.
How do I enquire about export clearance?
Tell us what you are exporting, the destination country, quantity, transport mode and planned exit point. We will discuss the relevant documents and any product-specific requirements.
What import documents might Customs require?
Import documents commonly include a commercial invoice and relevant packing or transport records. Contracts, certificates and permits may also be required depending on the goods and customs procedure.
Do I need to appoint a clearing agent electronically?
Where agent appointment is required, use the Zambia Revenue Authority’s official electronic process. We can discuss what information to prepare before you complete the appointment.
Can you tell me the exact import duty before seeing my documents?
We need accurate product descriptions, values, origin and other shipment details to discuss the factors affecting import costs. The official duty assessment is determined by customs.
Are government duties included in the clearing fee?
Government duties and taxes are separate from professional clearing service charges. We help you distinguish those amounts when discussing your requirements.
Does nationwide coverage mean there are offices in Lusaka or Ndola?
Our physical office is in Livingstone. We assist importers and exporters throughout Zambia without suggesting that we maintain an office in every city.
Can I request assistance for Kazungula or Chirundu?
Yes. We receive enquiries for import and export movements involving Kazungula, Chirundu and other customs routes. Tell us your intended border crossing, cargo and direction of travel.
What if my goods need a special permit?
Some products require permits or certificates from specific authorities. Describe the goods precisely and let us know which approvals you already hold so we can discuss the relevant requirements.
Will submitting this form clear my goods?
Our web form starts your clearing enquiry. Customs declarations, any required appointment, official assessments and release remain separate formal procedures.
How soon will my consignment be cleared?
Clearance times vary with the shipment, documents and any checks required by customs. We focus on preparing complete information and communicating the next steps rather than promising a fixed release time.
What is your WhatsApp number and contact time?
WhatsApp us on +260 977 751 858. Our contact hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. You can also send an enquiry through our website.
Should I send passwords, passports or bank statements through the form?
Please send basic cargo and contact information in the initial form. If sensitive documents are needed later, we will discuss an appropriate way to share them.
Does the price of the goods equal the full customs cost?
No. The price on the invoice is only part of the information relevant to customs valuation and tax treatment. Classification, origin, legal provisions and other applicable charges may matter. Ask for a breakdown that distinguishes taxes and professional service fees.
What details help with a vehicle import enquiry?
Tell us the make, model, year, vehicle identification details, purchase records, origin and intended entry route. You can also read our vehicle import preparation guide.
Can I request assistance with machinery documents?
Yes, you can send us an import-clearing enquiry that describes the machinery and includes available model details, functions, invoice and intended route. We will discuss the relevant documentation and next steps.
For regulatory requirements, refer to the latest guidance published by the Zambia Revenue Authority and Zambia Development Agency.
More questions from Zambian importers and exporters
Can I contact you before buying goods abroad?
Yes. Tell us what you intend to buy, the supplier country, expected quantities, delivery route and available specifications. Early preparation can reveal which information or approvals you may need.
What is the difference between an invoice and a packing list?
The invoice records the commercial transaction and product value; a packing list helps identify how the goods are packed. Both should agree on the consignment details. See our document comparison guide.
Does every import attract the same duty?
No. The classification, valuation, origin and applicable statutory treatment vary by goods. ZRA makes the official assessment.
What if customs requests an inspection?
An inspection or records review is part of customs control. Keep accurate invoices, transport records and product details available, and respond through the relevant official procedure.
Can you help me prepare an export enquiry?
Yes. Provide the goods, destination market, commercial invoice, transport method, exit station and any applicable permits or certificates you already hold.
Can I request a quote without a final invoice?
Yes. Begin with an accurate description, quantities, supplier country, route and whatever documents are available. A final quotation may need additional information.
Are you based in Lusaka, Ndola or Kitwe?
Our office is at Plot Number 47, Kafubu Road, Livingstone. We serve customers throughout Zambia and do not advertise additional offices.
How do I appoint a clearing agent?
ZRA provides an official electronic appointment process. Use its current portal and authorised guidance; we explain the preparation steps in our agent appointment resource.
Will customs duty be included in the agency charge?
Customs duties and taxes are statutory amounts, while agency fees relate to professional clearing services. Ask for clear distinctions when discussing a quotation.
What causes avoidable delays?
Common preparation issues include inconsistent invoices and packing lists, unclear commodity descriptions, missing permits and unconfirmed routing. Official inspections can also affect timing.
Do you guarantee that my cargo will clear by a specific time?
We discuss the steps and documents relevant to your shipment. Formal assessments, interventions and release decisions are made under the applicable customs process.
How can I contact Three Stripes?
WhatsApp or call +260 977 751 858 during our contact hours, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, or email info@threestripesclearing.com.