Recognizing what is Hidden

I'll start off by recommending that the reader watches an excerpt from the movie "Men In Black".
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3hAVT2sDqQ 

The main message is that things are not always what they seem to be.

Within the realm of Customs Compliance, there are many aspects that tend to be "hidden" from view.

There are many examples to think about:

- HS Codes (I probably have already mentioned this in previous Blog posts, but it is worth repeating. HS classification is not right or wrong. It is less accurate and more accurate.) Having various experts review HS classification data may identify opportunities to improve on HS compliance that could result in duty refunds, or at times, additional duties owed.

- Participating Government Agencies (PGAs): Thinking of importing a product into a specific jurisdiction? Customs is not the only agency that may be reviewing the products entering the country. Very recently, I received a call about importing a "lotion". The caller could not outline the ingredients and was unaware of specific requirements imposed by Health Canada. Without aligning the proper information not just for Customs but for Health Canada as well, the goods would probably never reach their destination. That could be detrimental to the business.

- Valuation adjustments: Unlike the tax agencies that review the annual books and records, Customs bases their reviews on a transactional basis. Therefore, if there is a pricing adjustment to be made, it is very important to understand how to align that adjustment to each specific transaction, and sometimes even to align the adjustment amounts to specific SKUs declared within a specific line on the identified transaction. Making a global adjustment through a basket of data could result in Customs rejecting the claim and possibly aligning the importer with further verifications that Customs could initiate.


All to say, that there are many HIDDEN aspects to Customs compliance. Undertaking consistent and timely reviews whether utilizing the knowledge of the internal team members or bringing in some external help to identify those hidden anomalies or even treasures is something that all importers should undertake.

So how does this connect to Cooking?
This past Sunday, I enjoyed watching the Super Bowl with my family and prepared a "small feast" for all of us to enjoy.
The picture says it all.
But what is the most important item in that picture?
I am sure that many will say:
- the food
- the game on the TV
- the drinks
- comfortable seats

In my opinion, the "HIDDEN" item in the picture which is really not hidden at all is the TREADMILL.
After a nice dinner and a long day, I am beginning to enjoy the "hidden treasure" that the treadmill provides.

One may not notice the treadmill in the picture when you first take a look. As well, even if one does see the treadmill, one may not recognize how beneficial and important it is.

I am grateful for my cheering squad and "coach" who are encouraging me to get on that treadmill often.

RECOGNIZE WHAT IS HIDDEN!!!

It can benefit you AND your business.

Location: Montreal, QC, Canada

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