Package/Shipment Stuck in Customs? Cause and Best Solution

Stuck in customs - a frustrating scenario familiar to businesses navigating the complexities of international trade. Every hour lost in bureaucratic delays can mean missed opportunities and increased costs. However, amidst this challenge lies an opportunity for streamlined efficiency and expert navigation. 

Enter Worldcraft Logistics, your trusted partner in overcoming customs hurdles with precision, ensuring your goods move swiftly, safely, and seamlessly across borders. Discover how our tailored solutions not only save time and costs but also redefine what smooth logistics truly means in today's interconnected world.

Why Is Your Package Stuck In Customs?

Experiencing delays with your shipment can be frustrating, especially when it's stuck in customs. Understanding the common reasons for these hold ups can help you avoid them in the future. Here are the top three causes for customs delays:

1. Prohibited or Dangerous Products

Customs authorities are vigilant about what enters and leaves their borders. If your package contains prohibited or dangerous items, it will likely be detained. Prohibited items can vary from country to country, but they often include weapons, hazardous materials, and certain chemicals. Always check the regulations of the destination country before shipping to ensure your package complies with local laws.

2. Incomplete Paperwork

One of the most common reasons for a customs delay is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. Accurate documentation is crucial for a smooth process of customs clearance. This includes providing a detailed description of the items, their value, and the purpose of the shipment. Missing or inaccurate information can lead to significant delays as customs officials will need to verify the details before releasing your package.

3. Unpaid Taxes and Fees

Every country imposes taxes and fees on imported goods. If these charges are not paid promptly, your package can be held at customs until the payment is made. To avoid this, ensure that all applicable taxes and duties are paid in advance or be prepared to settle them promptly upon notification from customs.

Our advice: Understanding and addressing these common issues can help expedite the customs process and ensure your package reaches its destination without unnecessary delays. Always verify the regulations, complete all required paperwork accurately, and settle any taxes and fees to keep your shipment moving smoothly.

How Long Can Customs Hold My Package?

Waiting for a package that’s stuck in customs can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you have no idea how long the delay might last. The duration a package is held in customs can vary greatly, depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:

1. Package Stuck in Customs for a Month

Having your package stuck in customs for a month is not common, but it does happen. This usually occurs if there are significant issues with the shipment, such as prohibited items, incomplete or incorrect paperwork, or substantial unpaid taxes and fees. Resolving these issues can be time-consuming, especially if multiple agencies need to be involved or if further investigations are required.

2. Package in Customs for 2 Weeks

A two-week hold in customs is somewhat more typical. This could be due to routine inspections, especially if your package is randomly selected for a detailed check. It can also happen if there are minor discrepancies in the documentation that need clarification or if there are moderate fees to be paid. While this delay can be inconvenient, it usually means that the issues are less severe and can be resolved with a bit of patience and proper follow-up.

3. Package Stuck in Customs for 2 Months

If your package is stuck in customs for two months, this is a significant delay and often indicates serious issues. This might involve legal disputes, extensive paperwork problems, or the need for special permits or licenses that are taking a long time to obtain. In such cases, it is essential to stay in constant communication with the shipping company and customs officials to expedite the process as much as possible.

How to Resolve Packages Stuck in Customs

Dealing with a package stuck in customs can be stressful and time-consuming. However, by following these steps, you can work towards resolving the issue efficiently:

1. Contact Your 3PL Provider

Third-Party Logistics (3PL) providers are experts in managing shipments and navigating customs regulations. If your package is stuck, the first step is to reach out to your 3PL provider. They can provide valuable information on the status of your shipment, any issues that need addressing, and the steps required to release your package.

2. Get in Touch with Your Provider

If you’re not using a 3PL provider, contact the carrier or shipping company directly. They will have detailed information about your shipment and can offer guidance on what might be causing the delay. They can also liaise with customs on your behalf to expedite the resolution process.

3. Determine If Any Taxes Are Overdue

One common reason for customs delays is unpaid taxes or duties. Verify if there are any outstanding payments and settle them promptly. Customs will not release your package until all applicable fees are paid. Check with your provider or customs broker to ensure that all financial obligations are met.

4. Verify That No Documents Are Missing

Incomplete or incorrect paperwork is another frequent cause of delays. Make sure that all required documents are submitted and that they contain accurate information. Common documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary permits or licenses. Double-check these documents for accuracy and completeness.

5. Stay Calm and Wait for the Solution to Be Contacted

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, all you can do is wait. Customs processes can be complex and time-consuming. While it’s important to stay proactive, it’s equally crucial to remain patient. Keep communication lines open with your provider and customs officials, and monitor the situation regularly.

Additional Tips:

• Engage a Customs Broker: If the situation is particularly complex, consider hiring a customs broker. They are experts in customs regulations and can help resolve issues more efficiently.

• Stay Informed: Regularly check the status of your shipment through tracking tools provided by your shipping company or carrier.

• Prepare in Advance: To avoid future delays, familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of the destination country and ensure all documentation is accurate and complete before shipping.

By following these steps, you can navigate the customs process more smoothly and work towards getting your package released as quickly as possible.

Customs Clearance Process You Should Learn Before Shipping Your Cargo

Understanding the customs clearance process is crucial for ensuring that your shipments reach their destinations smoothly and on time. Here’s a detailed overview of the key steps involved in the customs clearance process:

📦 Customs officials will inspect your customs documentation: These documents must be accurate and complete, including the shipping label and commercial invoice. The commercial invoice is the most critical as it lists the contact information of the sender and receiver, the export date, and the air waybill number.

📦 Import duties and taxes are assessed using the customs documentation: The import fees vary depending on the type of goods, their value, and the specific import regulations of the destination country. Import taxes apply to goods exceeding the de minimis value or the minimum taxable threshold for imported goods.

📦 Customs will require payment of duties and taxes, if applicable: If your shipment exceeds the tax threshold, customs officials will check if the duties and taxes have been paid. Additionally, certain restricted goods may incur fees regardless of their value. At this point, choosing between Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) becomes relevant.

• Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) means import duties and taxes have been paid. Most courier services like FedEx have customs brokerage companies that handle this payment on your behalf at customs. With DDP, the price you pay for shipping includes all import fees, which is reflected on the attached shipping label. In other words, using DDP is the best way to ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

• Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) means import duties and taxes have not been paid. In this case, customs officials hand over the shipment to an independent customs brokerage company to collect the required amount.

• Customs brokers are intermediaries who charge fees to facilitate the clearance process. These variable fees can be costly as they include brokerage, storage, and late payment fees.

If customs fees are unpaid, the broker will contact the recipient to collect the payment.

📦  Your shipment will be cleared once all duties and taxes are paid: After customs clearance is complete, the courier service you selected will transport the shipment from customs to its final destination. Shipments rarely get stuck at customs, and if they do, it is usually due to documentation errors.

Understanding the customs clearance process and preparing adequately can significantly reduce the risk of delays and complications with your shipments. By ensuring accurate documentation, correct classification, and compliance with regulations, you can facilitate a smooth and efficient customs clearance process, ensuring that your cargo reaches its destination without unnecessary holdups.

Obligations and Costs of the Sender and Recipient When a Package Is Stuck in Customs

When a package is held up in customs, both the sender and the recipient have specific responsibilities and potential costs to consider. Understanding these can help in resolving the delay more efficiently.

1. Sender Responsibilities & Fees

• Package Goods According to Current Regulations: Ensure that your packaging meets all the required standards and guidelines.

• Create a Shipping Label: The label should include all necessary and accurate information, such as a tracking barcode, names and addresses, product weight, and shipping date.

• Include a Commercial Invoice: This should contain all essential information, such as the sender's address and contact details, and the accurate value of the items.

• Verify Details: Make sure details like the harmonized tariff codes and addresses are entered correctly.

• Prepare a Packing List: This list should specify the quantity of items in your shipment.

• Include a Customs Declaration: Ensure that the items and their values are accurately described.

• Pay Necessary Taxes: Ensure all required taxes are submitted accordingly.

2. Recipient Responsibilities & Fees

• Verify Accurate Name and Address: Make sure that the recipient’s name and address are correctly entered.

• Pay Import Taxes and Necessary Shipping Costs: Ensure that all required import taxes and shipping fees are paid.

• Provide Necessary Proof of Address and Identification: When applicable, submit proof of address and identification documents.

• Submit Relevant Documents: When applicable, provide other related documents such as purchase orders, industrial licenses, and insurance certificates (typically required for commercial imports).

Shipments clear customs faster when you partner with Worldcraft Logistics

Worldcraft Logistics is a renowned player in the realm of third-party logistics (3PL), specializing in seamless customs clearance services that prioritize convenience, safety, and efficiency.

☑️ Convenience: Worldcraft Logistics simplifies the customs clearance process, ensuring smooth and hassle-free transactions for clients. With a dedicated team of experts and robust technological solutions, they streamline paperwork and procedures, saving valuable time and effort.

☑️ Safety: Committed to security, Worldcraft Logistics adheres to stringent safety protocols and regulatory compliance measures. They prioritize the safe handling and clearance of goods, maintaining high standards to protect both clients' interests and regulatory requirements.

☑️ Time-saving: Leveraging their expertise and industry relationships, Worldcraft Logistics accelerates the customs clearance process. Their efficient handling minimizes delays, expediting the movement of goods across borders and reducing overall transit times.

☑️ Cost-saving: By optimizing customs procedures and leveraging economies of scale, Worldcraft Logistics helps clients reduce costs associated with duties, taxes, and administrative expenses. Their strategic approach maximizes savings while ensuring compliance with customs regulations.

In essence, Worldcraft Logistics is dedicated to providing comprehensive customs clearance services that are not only reliable and compliant but also tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses in today's global marketplace.

FAQs: Stuck in Customs

1. What happens if a package/shipment is not cleared?

If a package or shipment is not cleared by customs, it may be returned to the sender, held indefinitely, or disposed of depending on the nature of the goods and the regulations of the destination country.

2. How to contact customs quickly when your shipment is detained?

Contact customs quickly by finding the contact information on their official website or through your shipping carrier. Provide them with your tracking number and any relevant documentation to inquire about the status and reasons for the detention.

3. Which items are refused customs clearance?

Items that are prohibited or restricted by law, such as weapons, illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, tobacco, alcohol and certain agricultural products, are typically refused customs clearance.

4. Why does customs procedure take so long?

Customs procedures can be delayed due to factors such as incomplete documentation, discrepancies in declared values, inspections, high volume of shipments, and adherence to complex regulations.

5. What will customs ask you?

Customs may ask for details about the contents of your shipment, their value, purpose, and country of origin. They may also inquire about any necessary permits, licenses, or taxes associated with the goods. Be prepared to provide accurate and detailed information to facilitate the clearance process.

In Worldcraft Logistics' opinion, navigating customs can be a difficult journey, but with careful planning and an understanding of the process, delays can often be minimized. Don't let customs slow you down. Partner with Worldcraft Logistics for a smoother, faster journey across international borders. Contact us today to discover how we can optimize your supply chain and keep your business growing.