New to foreign trade? Where should I start with an import?
If you are importing goods into Russia for the first time, start with a product description and the planned route. This information helps establish the tariff classification, required documents and charges before planning clearance. Tell us what you want to import, and we will help identify the next step.
This approach concerns preparation for commercial imports from outside the EAEU. Intra-Union supplies and personal purchases require a separate review. Check codes and tariffs against the EEC's current nomenclature, and assess product requirements against its characteristics and applicable rules.
What should I prepare before the first shipment?
Describe what the product is, what it is made of, how it works and its intended use. If available, prepare specifications, photographs and the supplier's offer. Include the country of dispatch, expected route, quantity and shipment value. Tell us which details remain unknown so we can identify the missing information during the review.
How should I prepare?
- Describe the product. We review its characteristics and the supplier's documents.
- Check the tariff code. Classification affects many import requirements. How to classify the goods.
- Check import documents. Requirements differ by product. Permits and conformity documents.
- Review delivery terms. Establish which costs and obligations each party accepts. Understanding Incoterms.
- Estimate and plan. Compare goods, transport, clearance and other costs. Customs value and import charges.
- Prepare for clearance. We prepare documents, submit the declaration and support release within the agreed service. Customs operations · Logistics.
What if I sell on a marketplace?
Mention this in your enquiry. We can consider delivery to a marketplace warehouse, product documents and issues with your marketplace agreement. Marketplace delivery · Agreements and disputes · Changes from 1 October 2026.
What if classification is difficult?
You can discuss assistance with an application for an advance classification ruling. For equipment arriving in components, we consider whether the separate component-delivery procedure is applicable: it has statutory conditions and does not cover every delivery split into several consignments. These types of decisions are distinguished in Article 21 of the EAEU Customs Code. Both areas are covered by our classification decision support service.
What if I need help with the FCS account?
Start by describing what you want to do and where you encountered a problem. Our FCS personal account consultation helps identify further steps. Do not send passwords, one-time codes or private electronic-signature keys with your enquiry.
What if I want to import branded goods outside the official distribution channel?
Before paying, establish the legal basis for importing the particular genuine product. For parallel imports, check the applicable list entry, exclusions and effective dates as well as the brand name. Ask the supplier for evidence that allows you to examine the goods' provenance and supply chain; a statement that “the brand is allowed” is not enough to decide on a consignment.
What should I check before paying the supplier?
Confirm the product details and contract terms, check the likely tariff code and import documents, then estimate transport and charges. Consider a separate dual-use goods review if the goods may be subject to relevant restrictions. The final assessment depends on the actual product and shipment documents.
Can I contact you without a supplier or complete documents?
Yes. Describe what you want to import and what you already know. We will explain which information is needed next. Service and delivery costs are calculated after reviewing the shipment.
Discuss your first shipment
Mention that you are new to foreign trade, describe the goods, expected country of dispatch and current preparation stage. If you sell on a marketplace, mention it in your enquiry. Contact Senateks.