Brazilian Customs is extremely strict regarding to documentation. It's very important to follow strictly their demands, not even a minor mistake will be tolerated.Usually I send a single form to get the full information from customer. Then I fill in all the forms required by Customs. After that I send the documents to customer in order to check data, values, etc. This way we can make something duly accurate.
Brazilian Customs demands that ALL the documents go through notarization (copies and signatures). It's a service provided by Brazilian Consulates/ Embassies (abroad) or notary agency (in Brazil).
The cost to notarize all the documents is expensive (mainly abroad). That's why I'm always concerned regarding to the documentation.
If you are thinking about doing an international removal, I do recommend you to pick an experienced professional to guide you in the preparation of documents. Wrong or hidden information, discrepancy on values, wrong packing list, expired documents, visa not allowed to bring household goods and personal effects and stuff like that are very usual in this business.
Sometimes the mistakes happen due to a lack of knowledge in elaborating them, but sometimes they are intentionally elaborated to cheat Customs and they know that.
The worst scenario is when you make some mistake due to your lack of knowledge and such problem "seems" to had been made to cheat the fiscalization. In this case you better have a good explanation to Customs officer otherwise besides the heavy penalty you can have your shipment fiercely retained.
This is a nightmare because the port charges are very expensive in Brazil.
Don't hesitate on contacting a good professional.
Some cheap people think that an good professional is expensive. I assure you that an amateur will be way more expensive...
I hope you make the right thing!
MB
