Customs Clearance

Customs clearance is the official process of getting shipments approved to enter or leave a country. Every international shipment must clear customs, whether it’s a small package or a shipping container.

The Customs Clearance Process

Import Clearance Steps

1. Arrival notification - Carrier notifies customs of incoming shipment
2. Documentation review - Customs examines paperwork
3. Duty calculation - Based on HS code, value, and origin
4. Payment - Duties and taxes paid
5. Inspection (if required) - Physical examination
6. Release - Goods cleared for delivery

Required Documents

Standard shipments:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading or airway bill
• Customs entry form

May also need:

• Certificate of origin
• Import license
• Product certifications
• Phytosanitary certificates
• FDA prior notice (food/drugs)

Who Handles Customs Clearance?

Self-clearance:

• Possible for low-value personal imports
• Time-consuming and complex
• Risk of errors and delays

Customs broker:

• Licensed professional
• Handles paperwork and payments
• Navigates regulations
• Recommended for commercial shipments

Carrier/courier:

• Express carriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL) offer clearance
• Included in some shipping services
• May charge brokerage fees

Clearance Timeframes

Common Clearance Delays

Documentation issues:

• Missing or incorrect paperwork
• Value discrepancies
• Wrong HS codes
• Incomplete addresses

Inspection holds:

• Random selection
• Flagged shipments
• Regulated products
• High-value goods

Payment issues:

• Unpaid duties
• Bond problems
• Payment processing

Tips for Smooth Clearance

1. Accurate documentation - Triple-check all details
2. Correct HS codes - Research before shipping
3. Realistic values - Never undervalue goods
4. Complete descriptions - Vague descriptions cause delays
5. Know regulations - Restricted items vary by country
6. Use a broker - For complex or high-value shipments
7. Track proactively - Monitor for customs holds

Clearance Costs