Shipping items internationally can be an intricate process, filled with various checkpoints and regulations. One of the most common hurdles faced by shippers is when items get stuck in customs.

Understanding why this happens and knowing what to do can save time, reduce stress, and ensure your goods reach their destination.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate these situations effectively.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

1. Prohibited or Restricted Items

One of the primary reasons your items might get stuck in customs is because they are prohibited or restricted in the destination country.

Each country has its own set of regulations dictating what can and cannot be imported. If customs officials identify any items that are not allowed, they will hold the shipment.

If this happens, the first step is to contact customs to understand the specific issue.

Customs officials can provide detailed information about why your items are being held. Once you have this information, you can arrange for the return or disposal of the prohibited items.

To prevent this situation from occurring in the first place, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with the prohibited and restricted items list of the destination country. Always double-check this list before shipping to avoid sending items that are restricted or prohibited.

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Paperwork

Another common reason for shipments being held in customs is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. This could involve missing invoices, packing lists, or improperly filled out customs forms. When documentation is not in order, customs cannot process the shipment, leading to delays.

To resolve this issue, thoroughly review and correct all documentation. Make sure that all required documents are complete and accurately filled out. If any documents are missing, submit them promptly to avoid further delays.

To prevent such problems, double-check all paperwork before shipping, ensure all forms are filled out accurately, and consider working with a professional shipping company like JustShip, which handles all the necessary paperwork for you.

3. Insufficient Customs Duties and Taxes

Insufficient customs duties and taxes can also cause your shipment to be stuck in customs. If duties and taxes are unpaid or incorrectly calculated, customs will hold the shipment until the outstanding amounts are settled.

In such cases, check for any outstanding payments and settle them promptly. You can contact customs or your shipping company for detailed information about the required payments.

To avoid this situation, research and calculate all duties and taxes beforehand, and budget for these costs in advance.

Opting for a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service can simplify the process, as it includes all duties and taxes in the shipping cost, ensuring there are no outstanding payments when clearing customs.

JustShip’s DDP Option

4. Discrepancies Between Declared and Actual Contents

Customs officials will hold shipments if there are discrepancies between the declared and actual contents. This includes differences in declared values or quantities.

To resolve this, provide accurate information and corrections to customs. If necessary, submit proof of the actual contents of the shipment.

To prevent such issues, ensure that the declared values and quantities match the actual shipment. Conduct a thorough check before shipping to verify all details are correct.

JustShip’s shipment form, sample of detailed declarations

5. Unable to Contact Recipient to Provide Needed Info

Sometimes, customs may require additional information from the recipient, and if they are unreachable or unresponsive, the shipment will be held.

This can be particularly frustrating but can be resolved by providing multiple methods to contact the recipient, such as phone number or emails.

To prevent this issue, ensure that the recipient's contact information is accurate and up-to-date.

Notify the recipient in advance about the shipment and potential customs requirements, so they are prepared to provide any needed information promptly.

Conclusion

Facing issues with customs can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, these problems can be minimised or avoided altogether.

Always stay informed about the regulations of the destination country, double-check all documentation, and maintain clear communication with all parties involved.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother shipping experience and avoid the frustration of having your items stuck in customs.