Customs is an authority or agency in a country responsible for collecting tariffs, or duties, and for controlling the flow of goods, including personal effects, animals, transports, and hazardous items, into and out of a country. Customs clearance is a compulsory process that includes an examination, appraisal, assessment, and evaluation of goods or cargo prior to importing or exporting internationally. The transportation and shipping of all commodities occurs through various - and sometimes multiple - methods, such as roadways, airways, and waterways, to reach their final destinations. The customs clearance process is critical to a country’s commerce and health as it ensures a complete legal and ethical freight shipment, including proper tax payments.
The standard process for household goods to clear customs, regardless of shipping method, includes the following four steps: paperwork verification, customs officer checks, review or payment of taxes and duties, and release of shipment. Your household goods mover will facilitate the customs process and will discuss and review all required documentation to ensure timely and smooth clearance. If you have questions about the customs clearance process as it pertains to your shipment, please contact your household goods provider for more information.