What Happens During Customs Clearance?

If Troy (as chronicled in Odyssey) had a strict set of customs implementations, the subterfuge of the Greeks would have not succeeded. The entry of the iconic wooden horse, which contained a reasonable number of trained soldiers, paved way for the easy destruction of the unsuspecting city. But nowadays, this tragedy could be easily prevented in the early stages of the customs clearance process.

Customs clearance is that stage in importation or exportation where goods pass through the customs department of countries. Here, the authorities would thoroughly inspect the items and their corresponding permits before the entry or exit of goods would be allowed. To further understand this crucial matter, here’s an illustration of the step-by-step process:

1. Inspection of the needed papers
   Every shipment will have a designated commercial invoice attached. In that document, important details will be listed including the shipper’s information, the parcels’ content and the corresponding destination. The invoice will be duly recorded by the inspectors. From this point alone, shipments can already be barred from importation or exportation if certain papers are missing.
2. Assessment of possible tax imposts
   Before shipment, the shipper will have to declare the value of the goods to be delivered. This has two main purposes: one, to determine the shipping costs and two, to know the tax rates applicable. The assessors base the tax rates with the items’ weight, class, and peculiarity. Thanks to existing trade treaties, specific goods are exempt from customs imposts.
3. Payment of entry or exit dues
   Generally, goods cannot proceed to shipment if the assessed taxes and charges are not satisfied. It is ideal to settle the pending dues as early as possible because other fees may add up. A concrete example would be storage fees. And if the consequential fees are not properly settled, the warehouse service providers and other related units may file complaints and hold the customs clearance.
4. Confirmation of payment and the release of the goods
   After the dues are paid and the legal papers signed, the customs officers would release an order signaling the clearance of the shipments. The goods would now be loaded to the outgoing courier (for exportation) or be transmitted to the receiving vessels (for importation). From this point on, the items may now proceed to their final destinations.

Note that the above-stated steps may vary from one territory to another. Please inquire with the official customs authorities for clarifications.

Are you sending products to international consumers? Then allow GOGO Customs Brokerage to lend you a hand! We are an expert in the field of Freight and Logistics in Fremont, California. Holding our years of experience in the service as a guarantee, we are confident that our skills and tools can further the success of your business transactions.

If you have queries about our Customs Brokerage Services in California, please feel free to connect with us! If you wish to visit our office, you may proceed to 2450 Peralta Blvd., Suite 104 Fremont, CA 94536.