4 Reasons Your Cargo Is Stuck in Customs – What to Know

It is always great to know that the parcel you sent was delivered to its destination without any problems. Receiving a package without any delays and issues is also always a relief. When you send and receive cargo without any difficulties, you are probably doing everything right by the book. However, in some cases, delays in shipments are inevitable and may be entirely out of your control.

Since the coronavirus outbreak, eCommerce orders and shipments have surged. Because of that, delays and shipment issues also increased. The circumstances were unavoidable, and major shipping companies are doing their best to adjust. 

Other than a global crisis, what are the other common cargo issues that could cause your parcels to be stuck in customs? Here is a list of reasons your cargo could be held up in customs:

You may have submitted incorrect or incomplete documents

When you are having packages shipped internationally, the courier requires you to submit different types of documents for processing in your country and the country of destination. Some of these documents include the invoice, textile samples, content description, and shipment documentation.

When it comes to incomplete documentation, most people forget to describe the contents of the package accurately. The content description should include the brand of the product, model, serial number, quantity, and value. Without the vital information, delays and further inspections at customs happen.

Other documentation issues include incomplete names and addresses, which will bring back the package to the hub. As a result, the delivery of your items is delayed.

You may have missed the pick-up date or lost essential documents

One of the worst shipment problems anyone can have is losing documents that are essential for your package’s release. That can be quite a hassle and incredibly time-consuming. While you work on the proper paperwork to get your items released, the shipping company may hold your items during the agreed timeframe. 

When you lose your bill of lading, you will have to go through a tedious process of finding and issuing a new statement. You will need to have a court order advising the shipping company to release and deliver your package. On the other hand, the courier will need to present a letter of indemnity, which will relieve them of any liability.

You must have put the incorrect tariff classification code

An essential element of your shipping documents is a tariff classification code. That allows goods and packages to arrive from other countries to the country of destination. When you input the wrong tariff classification code, it may cause shipment delays or, worse, your package’s loss.

The tariff classification code gives shipment companies a system to follow for uniformity among other countries, especially countries with open trade agreements.

Your package must have been included in a late container shipment

When cargos need to be sent through sea shipments, packages are brought to a port and packed in a container. Each slot in the shipment vessel will have an assigned cut-off time. When the shipment container does not make it to its scheduled shipping time, it will cause a delay in shipment and delivery of your package.

It is good to ask for updates and track your shipments’ progress to avoid this setback. Schedule the appropriate days when you want to send out your package and include all necessary documentation.

Conclusion

Shipment issues and delays may occur due to poor planning. If you are sending out a parcel, make sure all your documents are complete and filled with the right information. Should there be additional documents for confirmation to the destination, make sure you can send them to the receiver. If you are receiving a package, keep all the records safe until delivery or pick-up. 

Working with a reputable shipping company can help you avoid these shipment problems. All you need to do is fill up and pass the necessary documents and leave the shipping process to your courier’s hands.

1 Stop Pack n Ship is a premiere international and domestic moving and shipping service in Maryland. We offer packing and shipping, freight and trucking, and international moving services. Get in touch with us and learn more about our services today!