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Navigating customs delays: How to keep your packages moving

Whether you’re sending or receiving a package, seeing it stuck at customs can be a frustrating experience. Not only does it create uncertainty, but it also complicates the entire international shipping process.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why packages get stuck in customs and how you can address and prevent these delays. Plus, we’ll show you how Prime Penguin can be your ultimate partner in ensuring smooth, hassle-free international shipping. Let’s dive in!

Common reasons for customs delays

Understanding why packages get held up at customs is crucial for finding solutions. Here are some of the main reasons behind these delays:

Incomplete or incorrect paperwork

One of the leading causes of customs delays is poorly completed paperwork. Every international shipment requires specific documentation detailing the contents and value of the package. Missing or incorrect forms, such as a CN22 form, can lead to significant delays. Minor errors, like a misspelled recipient’s address, can cause issues.

Unpaid duties and taxes

Customs often detain packages due to unpaid import duties and taxes. Most countries charge these fees on shipments exceeding a certain value. Opting for delivery duty paid (DDP) shipping can help prevent these delays, as the necessary fees are settled in advance.

Restricted or prohibited items

Shipments containing prohibited or restricted items are another common reason for customs delays. Items like fireworks, vape products, and certain animal products are often flagged. Additionally, there are strict regulations on items like alcohol, tobacco, and perishables. Ensuring compliance with all applicable laws is essential to avoid delays.

How to resolve customs delays

If your package is stuck in customs, here’s what you can do:

Be patient with the customs process

Customs inspections can take time. Shipments are checked to ensure the declared contents and values are accurate. Understanding that this process can take several days, especially with slower shipping methods like airmail, is important.

Contact your 3PL provider or shipping carrier

If you suspect a customs delay, reach out to your 3PL provider or shipping carrier. They can confirm if the package is indeed on hold and may provide insights into the cause of the delay.

Verify your paperwork

Double-check your paperwork for any errors or missing information. If something is amiss, you may need to contact customs authorities to resolve the issue. Ensuring all details are correct can prevent many common customs delays.

Fulfill any outstanding duties and taxes

If additional fees are required, make sure they are paid promptly. Customs will not release your package until all duties and taxes are settled.

Preventing future customs delays

Preventing customs delays requires understanding your responsibilities as both a sender and receiver:

Sender responsibilities:

  • Properly pack shipments according to regulations.
  • Generate accurate shipping labels and commercial invoices.
  • Include all necessary customs declaration forms.
  • Pay any required taxes and fees in advance.

Receiver responsibilities:

  • Provide accurate name and address information.
  • Pay import duties and shipping charges promptly.
  • Provide necessary identification and documentation when required.

Ensuring cost-effective deliveries

A key factor in preventing customs delays and ensuring cost-effective deliveries is the logistics partner’s ability to reach customers efficiently. This can be influenced by several factors:

Strategic warehouse locations

Choosing a logistics partner with warehouses strategically located near your major customer bases can significantly reduce transit times and shipping costs. This not only speeds up delivery but also minimizes the chances of customs delays since goods can often be shipped domestically rather than internationally.

Negotiating better freight deals

A good logistics partner will have strong relationships with shipping carriers, allowing them to negotiate better freight rates. This helps you save on shipping costs and ensures your packages are prioritized, reducing the likelihood of delays at customs.

Prime Penguin: Your partner for smooth international shipping

Delays at customs can be significantly reduced with the right partner. Prime Penguin is an expert in international shipping and logistics, offering solutions to streamline your shipping process and avoid common pitfalls.

Automate customs paperwork

Prime Penguin’s solution allows you to integrate any software or service related to customs information, and add tariff codes for each SKU. This automation ensures that all necessary information is included in your commercial invoices, reducing the risk of errors and delays.

Leverage global fulfillment centers

With Prime Penguin’s global fulfillment network, you can store inventory in various countries, allowing for in-country shipping. This strategy helps you avoid customs delays, duties, and taxes altogether.

Conclusion

By integrating with any logistics partner and any eCommerce system, Prime Penguin acts as an independent enabler, providing a seamless connection between your business operations and your logistics needs. This ensures that your packages are always compliant with international shipping regulations and that all paperwork is correctly handled.

If you’re looking to expand your business internationally and ensure a smooth shipping experience, Prime Penguin is here to help. Connect with us to learn more about our international shipping and fulfillment solutions.

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