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FAQ On Customs Clearance

Updated: Oct 3, 2021

As a new entrant into the import-export industry, you will most likely be interested in knowing all there is to know about the industry in a bid to avoid making mistakes. But, unfortunately, there is a wealth of information available for you at the stroke of a few keys – so many that you find yourself at risk of suffering from information overload.



To combat this, we have collated a list of frequently asked questions to act as a quick-glimpse guide for you and give you easy-to-assimilate answers.


1. Is customs clearance compulsory for every shipment?

Yes, customs clearance is compulsory for all international shipments of commercial goods. The process is mandatory because it ensures that no illegal or prohibited items get into a country and that the government receives taxes and duties for liable goods.


2. How long does it take for my shipment to clear customs?

While the customs clearance process appears to have a set of laid-out steps, the reality is that things do not usually unfold at the same rate for all shipments. The time it will take for a load to clear customs depends on the goods in the shipment. Some products may need additional documentation or a physical examination before they can clear customs. However, it can take anywhere from 20 minutes to several days.


3. Can my shipment be stuck in customs?

Yes, a shipment may be stuck in customs for many reasons, ranging from outstanding taxes to inaccurate paperwork. If you fear or suspect that your shipment is stuck in customs, reach out to your freight forwarder and wait for them to resolve matters for you. A shipment can also be stuck in customs if it contains prohibited items or there are problems contacting the recipient.


4. What if my shipment is not stuck in customs but being held there?

Sometimes, a shipment may exceed the value allowed and be held at customs until the balance is paid. If your shipment is held at customs, contact the courier company in charge of your shipment. Usually, they will pay the balance and then charge you an administrative fee for handling. Sometimes, a shipment can be held at customs if it arrives at a busy time at the port, and there is a backlog.


5. How long can customs hold my shipment?

The length of time your shipment spends in customs holding depends on the reason for the holding in the first place. For example, if your load is held at customs because of an unpaid balance, it will only be held until the balance is paid, after which it will be released.


6. Will I pay customs charges for my shipment?

Most times, customs require charges for international shipments. These charges are typically set by the customs teams in the receiving country, and they base them on the value of the goods in the shipment. Customs rules differ by country; thus, there is no fixed price for the customs charges.


7. Do I need to pay import duties when exporting cargo?

Import duties are an important aspect of the customs clearance process when a load is entering a country. Before your cargo can officially enter the importing country, it has to undergo import clearance, and one of the requirements for import clearance is the payment of import duties. Every country imposes import duties because it is a great way to generate income for them, and the amount is dependent on the importing country. Your customs brokerage firm can handle this for you.


8. Must I use a customs broker?

You can choose whether to use a customs broker. However, with a customs broker, the customs clearance process is simpler and faster. All you need to do is to engage the services of a customs brokerage firm and have them transact with customs officials and handle all the issues for you, including payment of duties such as export and import clearance.


Source: Alibaba

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