Commonwealth Trade MSME Exporter Portal

馃嚞馃嚟 Ghana 路 Category 2 of 9

Customs formalities and the ICUMS single window

Verified 路 2 Jun 2026

All exports are declared electronically through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), Ghana's single window operated by the GRA Customs Division.

Overview

Ghana clears exports through a single electronic platform called ICUMS (the Integrated Customs Management System), which replaced the older GCMS and PAARS systems. As an exporter, you or your licensed customs house agent create a Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) and file the export declaration in ICUMS, attaching your commercial invoice, packing list and transport documents. The system calculates any levies, routes the consignment for inspection where needed, and issues clearance once checks pass. Most Ghanaian exports carry no export duty, but you still must declare accurately because the data feeds trade statistics and any applicable levies (for example on some unprocessed commodities). Using a reputable licensed customs house agent is normal practice for MSMEs and speeds up clearance at Tema and Takoradi ports and at Kotoka Airport.

Key requirements

  1. 1

    Electronic declaration in ICUMS

    Submit the export (single administrative) declaration through ICUMS; paper-only clearance is no longer accepted at major ports.

  2. 2

    Unique Consignment Reference (UCR)

    Generate a UCR in the system to track the consignment end to end through customs processing.

  3. 3

    Licensed customs house agent

    Most MSMEs engage a GRA-licensed customs house agent to lodge declarations and manage inspection at the port.

  4. 4

    Accurate HS classification and valuation

    Declare the correct Harmonised System code and export value; misclassification triggers queries and delays.

  5. 5

    Physical or scan inspection

    Consignments may be routed to a control lane for documentary, scanner or physical examination before release.

Documents you will need

  • ICUMS export declaration with UCR
  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Bill of lading / airway bill / waybill
  • Certificate of origin (where preference is claimed)
  • Export permit or regulator certificate for controlled goods
  • GEPA exporter certificate