When and Why Customs Keeps Commercial Packages and How to Prevent It Happening
When and Why Customs Keeps Commercial Packages and How to Prevent It Happening
As a business owner, one of the most frustrating things that can happen is having your commercial packages held by customs. Not only does it delay the delivery of your products to customers, but it can also result in additional costs and fees. In this article, we’ll explore why customs might keep your packages, when it’s more likely to happen, and most importantly, what you can do to prevent it from happening in the first place.
In this article, we will explore:
Why Customs Keeps Commercial Packages
When is it More Likely to Happen?
How to Prevent Customs Holds
1. Why Customs Keeps Commercial Packages
Customs has the authority to hold packages that it deems suspicious or that violate certain laws or regulations. The most common reasons packages get held at customs are:
Customs inspection:
Customs officials may randomly select packages to inspect them for prohibited or illegal items. This is done to prevent illegal activities such as smuggling, fraud, or terrorism.
Incorrect or incomplete paperwork:
Filling out the paperwork correctly and completely is essential to avoid package holds. If the paperwork is not complete or has incorrect information, customs officials may delay the package until the errors are corrected.
Regulatory compliance issues:
Packages may be held if they do not comply with regulations related to product safety, labeling, and packaging. For example, packages that contain hazardous materials may be held until the necessary permits and approvals are obtained.
Tariffs and duties:
Packages may be held if tariffs or duties have not been paid or if there is a dispute over the value of the items in the package.
2. When is it More Likely to Happen?
Packages are more likely to be held by customs if they are international shipments, particularly if they are coming from countries with a history of noncompliance or if they are being sent to countries with strict import regulations. Packages that contain high-value items or items that are subject to certain regulations, such as food, medical supplies, and chemicals, are also more likely to be held.
3. How to Prevent Customs Holds
Provide accurate and complete paperwork:
Make sure to fill out all required paperwork accurately and completely. This includes providing a detailed description of the items in the package, their value, and the purpose for which they are being shipped. Be sure to include any necessary permits or licenses.
Use appropriate packaging and labeling:
Ensure that your packaging and labeling comply with all applicable regulations. This includes using appropriate labeling for hazardous materials, complying with size and weight restrictions, and ensuring that the package is properly secured.
Know the regulations:
Stay up to date with the regulations related to your products and the countries you are shipping to and from. This includes understanding any applicable tariffs and duties and ensuring that they are paid.
Work with a reliable shipping partner:
Choose a shipping partner that has experience with international shipments and understands the regulations and requirements. They can help ensure that all necessary paperwork is filled out correctly, that the package is properly labeled, and that any applicable tariffs and duties are paid.
Customs holds can be frustrating, time-consuming, and costly for businesses. However, by understanding why customs may hold packages when it’s more likely to happen, and what you can do to prevent it, you can avoid many of these issues. At Merchant Boxes, we provide custom packaging design, sourcing, and fulfillment services to help ensure that your packages comply with all applicable regulations and avoid any unnecessary delays. Contact us below today to learn more about how we can help your business succeed in international markets.
Let us help you find the right packaging solution.
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