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Think Like a CFO: Use ATA Carnets to Save, Grow, and Increase Cash Flow

Friday, September 26, 2025

Call Boomerang Carnets, Your Carnet Specialists

At boomerang carnets, we know positive cash flow is a prime concern for any business.  The last thing you want to do is tie up money if you don’t have to.  One often overlooked cost is the overseas deposit required by many countries when temporarily importing goods.  These overseas deposits can tie up substantial sums of cash—sometimes for years—restricting valuable capital that could otherwise be applied to your business.
 

What are Overseas Deposits?

When goods temporarily enter a foreign country, customs authorities will require a cash deposit in the foreign currency, typically a percentage of the goods’ value, to guarantee duties and taxes will be paid if the items remain in their country.  Even if you only intend to bring in an exhibit booth, film equipment, or scientific instruments for a few weeks, customs will not simply “take your word for it.”  Import duties and taxes apply to temporary imports and in some countries, rates can be as high as 40% of the goods’ value.

That means bringing in $100,000 worth of goods could require a $40,000 cash deposit.  Multiply that by several trips and destinations and the financial impact quickly escalates resulting in restrictions on both your cash flow and international opportunity.  You’ll be assessed duties and taxes unless you find another way to bring in goods without paying those costs.
 

The ATA Carnet Advantage

The ATA Carnet is an international unified customs document that eliminates the need for overseas deposits.  Accepted in over 90 countries and territories, it allows for duty- and tax-free temporary importation of goods ranging from fine art to musical instruments, technology, television and film production equipment, and more.  The ATA Carnet simplifies customs clearance and avoids payment of duties and taxes on your temporarily imported goods, merchandise, and equipment.  The ATA Carnet can be used for multiple trips into multiple countries during its period of validity, from 6 - 12 months, offering unmatched flexibility and cost control.
 

Why It Matters for Financial Management

Using ATA Carnets provides:

  • Reduction in cash outflow
  • Built-in cost controls and savings features
  • Positive cash flow for reinvestment in growth

The certainty of knowing where your money is being spent—and where it isn’t tied up unnecessarily—is crucial.  By removing the requirement to make large cash deposits with multiple customs authorities, ATA Carnets support global business expansion and growth while protecting your business’ working capital.


ATA Carnet Boomerang Carnets WebinarWatch the Recording of our Webinar, Unique International Trade Tool Eliminates Overseas Deposits.

In 30 minutes, see how ATA Carnets save millions in duties and taxes proven by a real customer case study.  Simple, affordable, and powerful, ATA Carnets help reduce some of the expenses of expansion and unlock new foreign markets with ease.

At boomerang carnets we help companies cut costs, expand globally, and find the best solution for their global trade needs.
 

It Matters Where You Get Your Carnet

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