Why Do Shipments Get Stuck at Customs? Causes, Risks and Solutions

Shipments get stuck at customs mainly due to documentation errors, incorrect HS codes, unpaid duties, inspections, or regulatory non-compliance. Professional customs clearance services help businesses avoid delays, penalties, and supply chain disruptions.

Customs clearance is a critical checkpoint in international trade. Even a small mistake can halt cargo movement, increase storage costs, and damage delivery timelines. Understanding why shipments are delayed helps importers and exporters plan better and reduce risk.

What Does It Mean When a Shipment Is Held at Customs?

When a shipment is held at customs, authorities temporarily stop cargo release to verify documents, inspect goods, or ensure compliance with regulations. During this period, goods cannot move forward until issues are resolved.

Customs holds may be short or extend for days or weeks, depending on the problem. This uncertainty makes customs clearance services essential for smooth international shipping.

Common Reasons Shipments Get Stuck at Customs

Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation

Documentation errors are the most frequent cause of customs delays. Missing or inconsistent information raises red flags for customs officers.

Common document issues include

• Commercial invoice mismatches
  
• Incorrect packing list details
  
• Missing certificates or permits
  
• Incorrect consignee or shipper details

Even small errors can lead to clearance suspension until corrections are submitted.

Wrong HS Code Classification

HS codes determine duties, taxes, and regulatory requirements. Incorrect classification can trigger duty reassessment, inspections, or penalties.

For example, classifying an electronic component under a general category instead of a controlled one may result in shipment detention and fines.

Unpaid or Underpaid Duties and Taxes

Customs will not release shipments if duties and taxes are unpaid or incorrectly calculated. Underpayment often leads to reassessment, delaying clearance.

Professional customs clearance services ensure accurate duty calculations and timely payments.

Customs Inspections and Physical Examinations

Customs authorities randomly or selectively inspect shipments to verify declared information. Inspections may involve document review or physical cargo examination.

High-risk goods, restricted items, or first-time importers face a higher chance of inspection.

Restricted or Prohibited Goods

Some products require special permits or are restricted altogether. Shipping such goods without proper approval leads to seizure or extended holds.

Examples include

• Pharmaceuticals
  
• Food products
  
• Chemicals
  
• Telecommunication equipment

Regulatory Non-Compliance

Failure to meet local import regulations, labeling rules, or safety standards can block shipment release. Regulations vary by country, making local expertise essential.

Real World Examples of Customs Delays

1. Incorrect HS Code

A retail importer declared household appliances under an incorrect HS code. Customs reassessed duties, demanded revised documentation, and delayed clearance by eight days.

2. Missing Certificate

A food shipment lacked a required health certificate. Customs placed the cargo on hold until the document was provided, resulting in storage charges and delayed delivery.

3. Underdeclared Value

An importer declared a lower invoice value. Customs flagged the shipment, conducted valuation checks, and imposed penalties before releasing the cargo.

Impact of Customs Delays on Businesses

Customs delays affect more than delivery schedules. They influence overall business performance.

Key impacts include

• Increased storage and demurrage costs
  
• Disrupted supply chains
  
• Lost sales opportunities
  
• Customer dissatisfaction
  
• Regulatory penalties

Reliable customs clearance services help reduce these risks.

Benefits of Using Professional Customs Clearance Services

Accurate Documentation and Compliance

Experts ensure documents meet customs requirements, reducing the risk of holds.

Faster Clearance Timelines

Professional handling speeds up clearance by addressing issues proactively.

Reduced Financial Risk

Correct duty calculation and compliance prevent fines and reassessments.

Expert Handling of Inspections

Customs professionals coordinate inspections and respond efficiently to queries.

Pros and Cons of Managing Customs Clearance Internally

Pros

• Direct control over documentation
  
• Cost savings for very small volumes

Cons

• High risk of errors
  
• Lack of regulatory expertise
  
• Slower clearance timelines
  
• Higher exposure to penalties

For growing businesses, outsourcing to customs clearance services offers long term efficiency and compliance.

How Customs Clearance Services Prevent Shipment Delays

Customs clearance services streamline the entire process by

• Reviewing documents before submission
  
• Ensuring correct HS code classification
  
• Managing duty and tax payments
  
• Handling customs queries and inspections
  
• Keeping businesses updated on regulatory changes

This proactive approach minimizes disruptions and keeps shipments moving.

How Express Freight Services Helps Avoid Customs Delays

Express Freight Services provides end-to-end customs clearance services designed to prevent shipment holds and reduce clearance time. With experienced professionals and in-depth regulatory knowledge, the team ensures accurate filings, timely approvals, and smooth cargo release.

Our approach focuses on compliance, speed, and cost efficiency for every shipment.

Best Practices to Avoid Shipments Getting Stuck at Customs

• Prepare documents accurately and consistently
  
• Use correct HS codes and valuations
  
• Understand country-specific regulations
  
• Work with experienced customs clearance services
  
• Plan for inspections and contingencies

These steps significantly reduce the risk of customs delays.

Conclusion

Shipments get stuck at customs due to documentation errors, misclassification, unpaid duties, inspections, and regulatory non-compliance. These delays can disrupt operations and increase costs. Partnering with reliable customs clearance services ensures compliance, faster clearance, and smoother international trade operations.

If your shipments are facing delays or you want to avoid customs issues before they arise, Contact Express Freight Services today for trusted, efficient customs clearance services that keep your cargo moving without disruption.