Used Household Goods and Personal Effects

Documents Required

• Copy of passport
• Packing list
• Original bill of lading (OBL) / no express release / air waybill (AWB)
• Original valued inventory in English, dated, and signed by the owner of the goods
• Invoices for all electrical items less than 6 months old
• Employment contract
• Diplomatic exemption (diplomats)

Specific Information

• The agent must receive documents at least 15 days prior to arrival of the shipment to allow agent time to apply for a duty exemption on the used household goods.
• The owner of the goods must be present during the clearing process.
• New personal effects are subject to 30% to 80% tax on declared value.
• The diplomatic organization will apply for documents on behalf of the owner of the goods with the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and must have copies of the OBL / AWB and packing list to initiate Customs clearance (diplomats).

Motor Vehicles

Documents Required

• Copy of passport
• Original registration card
• Owner of the goods’ employment contract
• Original purchase invoice
• OBL (no express release) / AWB

Specific Information

• Taxes on vehicles will depend on age, power, etc. of approximately 95% to 150% cost, insurance, and freight (CIF).
• The OBL must show chassis number, engine number, cubic capacity, year of manufacture, brand, and model.

Pets

Documents Required

• Veterinary health certificate
• Valid vaccination record

Specific Information

• Current vaccinations and permission from nearest embassy are required for the importation of live animals.

Restricted/Dutiable Items

• Alcohol (subject to taxes)
• New electrical, electronic Items and computers are subject to 50% to 150% tax on the declared value
• One used computer is granted duty free
• Firearms and ammunitions (authorization from the territorial administration required)

Prohibited Items

• Illegal drugs
• Pornography
• Explosive materials
• Counterfeit items

Consignment Instructions

Recommended:  Contact the destination agent to ensure all requirements have been met prior to import, especially for differences regarding air / sea shipments.

Helpful Website(s):

http://www.state.gov/p/af/ci/mi

http://www.malawiembassy-dc.org