How Volunteers Can Prove Their Case to Customs – Strategies and Legal Arguments for Protection

Why Volunteers Must Be Legally Prepared

Volunteers in Ukraine are essential in supplying the Armed Forces, hospitals, and civilians with critical resources. However, customs authorities often delay humanitarian shipments and impose:

• Bureaucratic obstacles

• Demands for additional paperwork

• Confiscation of goods

The Legal and Real Estate Association of Ukraine provides practical legal advice for volunteers to protect their rights.

1. Proper Document Preparation – The Key to Success

Customs may delay clearance due to:

• Missing or inconsistent documentation

• Lack of clarity on the aid’s purpose

What to do:

• Prepare an agreement with the foreign donor (organization or individual)

• Draft a justification letter explaining the purpose and final recipient of the aid

• Obtain letters of support from military units, hospitals, or local authorities

• Have your documents pre-checked by a lawyer before shipment

2. Correct Declaration of Cargo

Errors in classification or product codes can result in taxes or confiscation.

How to avoid:

• Accurately assign the customs code (HS code) for each item

• Use legal wording like “humanitarian aid (clothing),” not just “clothing”

• Check if special certificates are needed (e.g. for medicine, electronics, vehicles)

• Consult customs brokers in advance

3. Legal Arguments in Disputes

Customs may unlawfully request duties or deny import of aid shipments.

What to do:

• Refer to the Law of Ukraine “On Humanitarian Aid,” which exempts such cargo from taxes

• Cite Cabinet Resolution No. 174 dated 01.03.2022, which simplifies procedures for NGOs

• File formal written requests for clarification if cargo is delayed

• If denied, file complaints with the State Customs Service or take legal action

4. Legal Defense Through the Courts

In cases of:

• Unjustified denial of entry

• Confiscation of goods

Steps to take:

• File an official complaint with customs (within 10 days of the decision)

• File an administrative lawsuit if the complaint is denied

• Involve a lawyer to prepare and file the claim

How to Defend Your Rights Before Customs

• Prepare a full set of documents in advance

• Declare all items correctly with proper codes

• Use legal references in disputes

• Appeal unlawful customs decisions

How We Can Help

The Legal and Real Estate Association of Ukraine offers:

• Document preparation and verification

• Guidance on humanitarian cargo declaration

• Legal representation in customs disputes

• Court protection for volunteer organizations