The Customs Bottleneck: Protecting Your Delivery SLAs

Even if you use fast shipping lines, your parcels can get stuck in customs hubs due to paperwork errors, tariff disputes, or safety inspections. A customs hold delay can take weeks, leading to customer disputes, chargebacks, and payment processor account holds.

Top 3 Reasons for Customs Delays

  1. Inaccurate HS Codes: Harmonized System (HS) codes classify the product type for import taxes. Incorrect codes lead to safety holds and tariff penalties.
  2. Under-Declared Value: Artificially lowering the package value on the customs invoice to bypass taxes is actively flagged by automated customs scanners.
  3. Sensitive Goods Compliance: Packages containing batteries, liquids, magnetic parts, or cosmetics require special declarations and clearance pathways.

Ensuring Full Compliance

Working with professional fulfillment partners (like GPfulfillment) ensures that all parcels are shipped with accurate customs documentation. We handle pre-clearance and file correct HS codes, ensuring your packages clear customs smoothly.

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