What is a SAC (Self Assessed Clearance) Declaration?

A Self Assessed Clearance (SAC) declaration is an electronic declaration that Customs requires to clear goods imported by air and sea that have a value at or below the AUD$1000 import entry threshold. Goods valued above the import entry threshold need to be cleared on a Formal Import Declaration. These must be communicated through the ICS System.

Perhaps are SAC is not what you are looking for, if you are talking personal effects, this requires a different process. Any Unaccompanied personal effects (UPE) must be declared to Customs and AQIS on the approved form - B534 Unaccompanied Personal Effects Statement, we can help you with personal effects.

As an Importer what is my role in a SAC (Self Assessed Clearance)?

• The items must be under the AUD$1000 threshold.
• They must not contain words or be of a kind as outline in the "SAC Thesaurus" (items such as plants, tobacco, drugs, weapons etc)
• Must provide all true and correct information to the party lodging on my behalf.
  • Packing Declaration, Commercial Invoices, Delivery Order, Fumigation Certificate (if goods require)
  • Give as much notice of the impending arrival of your shipment to help curb the possibility of storage at a depot being incurred.

Why use a Customs Broker to do a SAC (Self Assessed Clearance)?

SAC's must be communicated through the ICS (Customs System) by a cargo reporter.

There are two types of SAC's: (Self Assessed Clearances)

Short form (which does not require a broker, only a registered communicator in ICS)

- Concessional duty rates can not be claimed if applicable, AQIS information can be given but processing may take longer.

Full Declaration Form (which requires Importer to be registered in ICS and a broker/forwarder)

- Concessional duty rates can be claimed if applicable, brokers can use their AQIS Compliance to determine if any AQIS processing is required.