FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Short answers on Nafeza, ACID, Form 4, port fees, and what Hendy clears. For longer guides, use the links under each answer.
- What is Nafeza, and what is an ACID number?
Nafeza is Egypt's online trade window for filing import data with customs. An ACID number is the shipment ID that system gives you before the goods leave the foreign port. Your documents must show that same number so Egyptian customs can match the file when the cargo arrives.
- Do I need an ACID before my goods ship?
For many commercial sea imports into Egypt, yes. You (or a licensed customs broker you authorize) request the ACID on Nafeza before shipment. The foreign seller then uploads the shipping papers through Egypt's required electronic channel. If the number is missing or the papers do not match, the cargo can be held, and port costs rise while the file is fixed.
- Can Hendy request the ACID for my company?
Yes, when you give the proper authorization. Egyptian rules allow a licensed customs broker to enter the pre shipment data and follow the clearance file on your behalf. You still remain the importer of record. Your tax and company details must match what is filed.
- What is Form 4?
Form 4 is the bank paper that proves you paid your supplier for the goods. Egyptian customs often asks for it as part of the import file. Without it, the shipment usually cannot move forward.
- What is the difference between demurrage and port storage?
They are different bills for different delays. Demurrage is usually the shipping line's charge for keeping their container longer than the free days they allow. Port storage is the terminal's charge for the space your cargo occupies after free time. Detention is a related line charge that often applies after the container leaves the port and is returned late. Exact free days and rates depend on your line and terminal.
- Why do customs shipments get delayed in Egypt?
Most holds come from the same few file problems: mismatched papers, a late or missing ACID number, wrong product codes, late Form 4, or an inspection the file was not ready for. Fixing those early is cheaper than paying storage on the terminal.
- What happens after customs releases my cargo?
Release means customs has finished its file and the goods may leave the customs area. Someone still has to collect the cargo, move it by truck, and return the empty container on time when the move is containerized. Hendy can arrange sea freight haulage, land freight haulage, and storage at Alexandria port and outside Alexandria port, including Cairo.
- What does Hendy clear?
Hendy clears sea and land freight through Egyptian customs for manufacturers and importers. Clearance is the main work. Sea freight, land freight, and storage can follow after release.
- Where is Hendy based, and which ports do you cover?
Hendy is based in Alexandria and clears at every Egyptian port. We have done this work since 1987.
- How should I choose a customs broker in Egypt?
Confirm they are licensed for clearance and clear about what they clear for sea and land freight. Ask who owns the file when it is stuck, and whether one desk stays with you through inspection and release.
- What should I send to start a clearance file?
Start with the commercial invoice, packing list, and transport document (bill of lading for sea, or the land waybill). Tell us the product, the port or border, and the expected arrival. If Form 4 or other payment papers are ready, send those too. We confirm what else the file needs for that cargo.
- How long has Hendy worked with Unilever?
Hendy earned a strong Unilever partnership early, when the firm was still small and local in Egypt. That partnership still runs today, about forty years later.
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