What do I do if my package is stuck in customs?

During the international shipping process, your order will need to go through customs clearance. Sometimes, customs may hold your package for various reasons. We understand this can be inconvenient and we wanted to provide more information on why this happens and how to get it resolved.

Why packages get held in customs:

1. Insufficient or Incorrect Paperwork:

   • The sender must provide a completed customs declaration form detailing the package's contents, value, and country of origin. Missing or incorrect information can cause delays.
     
     

2. Duties and Taxes Payment:

   • Most countries require the recipient to pay duties and taxes before releasing the package. If the package was shipped Delivery Duties Unpaid (DDU) and these fees are not paid promptly, the package could be held.
     
     

3. Prohibited or Restricted Items:

   • Each country has a list of items restricted or prohibited from import. If your package contains such items, it could be seized or held until further action is taken.
     
     

4. Random Inspections:

   • Sometimes, packages are randomly selected for inspection, which can cause a delay even if everything is in order.

What can I do if my package is stuck?

1. Pay Any Outstanding Duties and Taxes:

   • If duties and taxes are due, you must pay them before the package can be released. The local customs authority should provide information on how to make payment.
     
     

2. Provide Additional Information or Documentation:

   • You must provide the correct details if the holdup is due to missing or incorrect information. This could involve filling out a form or providing proof of the package's contents or value.
     
     

3. Reach Out to Us:

   • If your tracking page shows that your package is being held in customs, we are often notified and proactive in putting together the documentation to release it.
   • Occasionally, we are not notified, but we can still investigate the hold and help get the package cleared as soon as possible.
   • If you notice your package is stuck in customs, please reach out to our support team by using our chatbot or by emailing help@passportshipping.com