Customs Clearance and Customs Declaration Frequently Asked Questions

The time your shipment spends in customs depends on several factors: origin, destination, type of goods, and whether your documentation is complete. If everything is correct, clearance often happens quickly. However, delays can occur due to inspections, missing paperwork, incorrect HS codes, or insufficient packaging. 
So, how long does customs clearance usually take? In most cases, it’s completed upon arrival, but if your shipment is flagged for review, it can take several days. How long customs processing takes also varies by country and complexity. If you see import customs clearance has started expect the process to continue until all checks are completed and duties are paid.

Customs authorities verify the shipment’s documentation and contents to ensure compliance with local laws. While waiting for your shipment delays may occur due to incomplete or inaccurate paperwork, incorrect HS codes, under-declared values, or if goods require special licenses or inspections. These aspects might be a reason for customs holding your parcel.

You can read through all inspection process details here

Import customs clearance is the process of declaring goods to customs authorities when they enter a country. It ensures compliance with local regulations and determines any duties or taxes owed. This process typically involves:

• Preparing and submitting documentation such as invoices and shipping details
• Coordinating with a customs broker for smooth handling
• Complying with regulations like import licenses and proof of origin
• Awaiting customs’ decision to release or inspect the goods

Once your shipment has cleared customs, it will be handed over to DHL for final delivery. This means that:

• DHL takes over the shipment after customs clearance
• The recipient is informed about the delivery schedule
• Tracking becomes available via DHL's online tools

When you ship internationally, your package must go through customs clearance status before it can enter or leave a country. Customs clearance is a required process where authorities check your shipment’s documents to ensure legal compliance and calculate any duties or taxes.
During this time, your shipment’s status will update as it moves through different clearance stages. The status will hold information about the status of the clearance process as well as the location of your shipment.
There is a variety of different status updates which also indicate possible actions to be taken from your end. If you are shipping with DHL Express or waiting for a parcel to be delivered via DHL Express, you can find a list of the different customs clearance status updates and their meaning here.

Tracking information may not update frequently while your shipment is in customs because DHL typically provides milestone tracking. This means updates are shown only at key points in the shipment journey. During customs clearance, there may be a period of inactivity in the tracking system, even though the shipment is still being processed.

As a private user, you usually do not need to file customs declarations yourself. DHL typically handles the customs clearance process for you, based on the information and documents you provide when sending or receiving goods internationally.
However, there are exceptions where you may need to take action yourself. Those could be:

• the customs information are missing or incomplete
• a proof of value is required
• the shipment contains certain medicals or food products
• specific local requirements

A customs declaration form is required for international shipments to inform customs authorities about the contents, value, and origin of your goods. Filling it out correctly helps avoid delays and extra charges.
Here’s what to include:

• Item description: Be specific (e.g., “men’s cotton T-shirt” instead of “clothing”).
• Quantity and value: State the actual purchase price, not estimated value.
• Country of origin: Where the goods were manufactured.
• Reason for export: Sale, gift, return, or sample.

If you’re asking how do I fill out a customs declaration form or how long does customs clearance take, accuracy is key. Missing details or wrong HS codes can cause delays. For U.S. shipments, check customs declaration US form requirements and documents required for import customs clearance.

During customs inspection, authorities may check the shipment's documentation, contents, and value to ensure compliance with import regulations. This can include the following:

• Reviewing shipment documentation
• Physically inspecting the package
• Verifying the declared value
• Assessing applicable duties and taxes

Yes, customs authorities have the right to inspect shipments, and this can include opening packages, however not every shipment is checked. Most packages clear customs on documentation alone. Physical inspections may happen if they are missing or contain suspicious details, for security checks or for goods that require special permits. Providing accurate paperwork and item descriptions will reduce the chances of inspection.

To learn more about how customs clearance works and how to avoid delays, explore these DHL resources:
Customs Clearance and Restrictions
Customs Clearance Tips for International Shipping

Customs clearance occurs at the border or point of entry of the destination country. This is where customs authorities of the importing country inspect the shipment and decide whether to release it, hold it for further inspection, or reject it.

Customs charges are based on the HS code, country of origin, type of good and declared value (including shipping and insurance). If you want to learn more about how duties and taxes are calculated read the full details here. Additional charges may apply depending on destination-specific tariffs and excise taxes.

Customs brokerage service is a specialized solution that helps businesses and individuals manage the complex process of customs clearance. Licensed brokers act as intermediaries between shippers and customs authorities, ensuring compliance with regulations and smooth cross-border movement of goods.
Their role includes preparing documentation, calculating duties and taxes, and coordinating with customs officials to avoid delays. For companies importing goods, import customs brokerage is essential to keep shipments moving efficiently.

A customs broker is a licensed expert who helps importers and exporters comply with trade regulations. Their main job is to prepare and submit documentation, calculate duties and taxes, and communicate with customs authorities to ensure shipments clear smoothly.
Customs broker responsibilities also include staying updated on regulatory changes and advising clients to avoid delays or penalties. A customs broker is usually required for international shipments with complex paperwork or special permits. While not always mandatory, working with a broker or a customs clearing agent can save time and reduce risk. Read about the 5 reasons why you should engage a customs broker here.