WIJHARS - when is an inspection compulsory and how to prepare for it?
The marketing of agri-food commodities involves additional obligations that go beyond standard customs clearance. One of the key elements of this process is the control carried out by the WIJHARS.
Its consideration at the right stage has a real impact on the duration of procedures, costs and the fluidity of the entire supply chain.
What is WIJHARS and what is its role?
WIJHARS, or the Provincial Inspectorate for Commercial Quality of Agricultural and Food Articles, is responsible for controlling the commercial quality of selected groups of foodstuffs.
In practice, this means verifying that the goods and documentation comply with the applicable regulations, even before the goods are released.
This check does not apply to all products, but for certain commodity groups it is mandatory and must be taken into account in good time.
When does the obligation to notify the WIJHARS arise?
One of the key elements of the process is the moment the goods are declared to the WIJHARS.
Notification shall be even before import clearance is given, which means that control obligations must be recognised as early as the goods receipt or delivery planning stage.
Once the complete set of documents has been submitted, the inspectorate examines the application and takes a decision:
- whether formal verification of the documents will suffice,
- whether it will be necessary to carry out a physical inspection of the goods, for example at the port.
Only after this stage is completed is it possible to proceed smoothly to further customs procedures.
What does WIJHARS inspection look like in practice?
The WIJHARS inspection process involves several key steps:
- to identify whether the goods in question are subject to inspection,
- notification of goods to the competent inspectorate,
- transmission of the required documentation,
- the inspectorate's decision on the scope of the inspection,
- possible physical inspection of the goods.
Each of these steps is relevant to the duration of the procedure and the risk of downtime or additional costs.
Why is adequate preparation so important?
Lack of prior recognition of the WIJHARS inspection obligation or incomplete documentation can lead to:
- stopping the container,
- Extension of check-in times,
- additional parking and storage costs,
- unnecessary delays in the circulation of goods.
Taking WIJHARS requirements into account at an early stage allows better planning of the process and avoids unforeseen complications.
How does Alfa Customs Agency support the WIJHARS procedures?
At Alfa Customs Agency, the process related to WIJHARS is conducted comprehensively. It includes:
- identification of the obligation to notify the WIJHARS,
- preparation and verification of documents,
- contact with the inspectorate,
- coordination of further stages of customs procedures.
This ensures that the procedure runs in an orderly and predictable manner, meeting the required deadlines.
WIJHARS and the efficient movement of goods - summary
WIJHARS control is an important element in the marketing of selected agri-food commodities. Of key importance is:
- proper recognition of the control obligation,
- the appropriate moment for notification,
- completeness of documentation.
A well-planned process reduces the risk of downtime and ensures the smoothness of subsequent customs procedures.
Do you have questions about WIJHARS or do you want to sort out the formalities before customs clearance? Consult us!
