Scope and purpose

This Origin Procedure sets out the framework and practical steps to be followed by VTTI when recording, reviewing, determining and substantiating the origin of goods handled at its terminals.

The purpose of this procedure is to support the consistent and compliant treatment of preferential and non-preferential origin in accordance with the Customs Legislation applicable in the European Union and the applicable preferential arrangements. It provides guidance to relevant VTTI personnel on the origin information to be recorded, the checks to be performed, the circumstances in which an origin determination is required and the documentation to be retained.

This procedure applies to inbound and outbound flows of goods handled at VTTI terminals where origin information is required for customs or related commercial purposes. It covers:

• the recording and retention of non-preferential origin information for inbound parcels;
• the receipt, review and retention of proofs of origin and other relevant supporting documentation;
• the use of preferential origin when goods are released for free circulation;
• the treatment of origin where goods leave the terminal unchanged;
• the determination of preferential or non-preferential origin following processing or blending at the terminal;
• the issuance, making out or facilitation of proofs of origin;
• the escalation process where clarification or specialist support is required; and
• the documentation and record-keeping requirements supporting an origin determination or claim.

This procedure serves as a practical reference for VTTI personnel involved in registering parcels, handling origin documentation, preparing customs declarations, determining the origin of outbound goods or facilitating the issuance of origin documentation.