The customs clearance process, explained

When an international shipment crosses a border, it goes through customs clearance. Here is what happens, in order, and where shipments get stuck.

Step by step

1. Documents submitted. The carrier or broker files the commercial invoice, packing list, and entry with the destination customs authority — ideally before the goods arrive.
2. Assessment. Customs reviews the HS code, declared value, and origin to calculate duty and taxes.
3. Duty & tax payment. Under DDP, you (the shipper) pay; under DAP/DDU, the consignee pays before release.
4. Inspection (maybe). A percentage of shipments are selected for X-ray or physical exam. This is the most common source of delay.
5. Release. Once cleared and paid, customs releases the goods to the carrier for final delivery.

Where shipments get stuck

• Wrong or vague HS code → re-assessment, questions, delay.
• Value mismatch between the invoice and the box contents → hold.
• Missing documents (certificate of origin, licenses) → hold until provided.
• Unpaid duty under DAP → the parcel waits at the door or warehouse.
• Restricted goods → seizure or return.

How to clear faster

1. HS-code accurately — use our HS lookup.
2. Match values across all documents.
3. Choose DDP for consumer shipments so duty is prepaid (no doorstep surprise).
4. Keep a complete document set on every shipment — Atlas stores them per shipment.
5. Pre-screen the consignee — sanctioned parties never clear (Atlas does this automatically).

How Atlas helps

Atlas generates the commercial invoice, estimates duty up front, stores documents on the shipment, and screens every consignee — the things that keep shipments moving through customs. Get started.