02 March 2023
Hey, We did two shipments to Azerbaijan but the goods were sent to Iran and from Iran sent to Azerbaijan via road. The payment has come from Azerbaijan only but we are unable to knock these shipping bills off due to the iran issue. How can we go about it? We bank with Axis bank.
11 July 2024
In your situation where goods were shipped to Iran and then further transported to Azerbaijan via road, but you are unable to knock off the shipping bills due to the Iran issue, here are steps you can consider to resolve the issue:
### 1. Communication with Customs Authorities:
- **Documentation Clarification:** Contact the customs authorities where the goods were originally shipped (likely India in this case) and explain the situation. Provide all relevant documentation such as invoices, bills of lading, transport documents, and any correspondence related to the shipment route through Iran to Azerbaijan.
- **Explanation of Route:** Clearly explain the logistics route taken by the goods from India to Iran and then to Azerbaijan. Highlight that the ultimate destination and payment are from Azerbaijan, not Iran.
### 2. Banking Procedures and Documentation:
- **Banks Involved:** Coordinate with your bank (Axis Bank) regarding the payment received from Azerbaijan and ensure all necessary documentation, including shipping documents, invoices, and proof of payment, is submitted to them.
- **Declaration of Actual Destination:** Provide a declaration or affidavit stating that the goods were intended for Azerbaijan and that the route through Iran was due to logistical considerations.
### 3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
- **Sanctions Compliance:** Ensure that your transactions comply with international sanctions regulations, especially concerning trade with Iran. If the goods were inadvertently transshipped through Iran, clarify this with the relevant authorities to avoid any potential sanctions violations.
### 4. Follow-Up and Persistence:
- **Follow-Up with Customs:** Continuously follow up with customs authorities in India and Azerbaijan to resolve any discrepancies or issues regarding the shipment route and destination.
- **Banking Channels:** Work closely with your bank to ensure they have all the necessary information and documentation to process the payment received from Azerbaijan.
### 5. Seek Professional Assistance:
- **Legal and Trade Experts:** Consider consulting with legal experts specializing in international trade or sanctions compliance if the issue persists or if you face challenges due to sanctions-related concerns.
By proactively communicating with customs authorities, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing complete documentation to your bank, you can address the issue and facilitate the clearance of the shipping bills for the shipments to Azerbaijan. It may require persistence and clear communication to resolve, but transparency and documentation are key in such international trade scenarios.
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