Common Customs Clearance Issues by Destination Country:

1. 💰 High customs duties & taxes

• Problem: Unexpectedly high duty/tax charges in countries like UK, EU, Australia, or Canada.
• Add-ons:
  • VAT or GST (up to 20–25%)
  • Customs handling fee
  • Disbursement fees charged by courier

2. 🚫 Restricted or prohibited items

• Problem: Items like food, medicines, cosmetics, electronics, or synthetic hair may be restricted or require approvals.
• Countries Affected:
  • Australia: Very strict on food and organic items
  • UAE: Strict on religious items, supplements
  • USA: Certain electronics, lithium batteries
• Add-ons:
  • Delays for inspection
  • Goods returned or destroyed
  • Additional paperwork or licenses required

3. 📑 Missing or incomplete documentation

• Problem: Incorrect or missing commercial invoice, value declaration, or product description.
• Add-ons:
  • Shipment held for clarification
  • Admin penalties
  • Delays up to several weeks

4. 🎯 Random customs inspection

• Problem: Some shipments are pulled for random checks regardless of content.
• Countries Affected: USA, Germany, UK, Canada
• Add-ons:
  • Delay in delivery
  • Inspection fees
  • Possible damage due to opening/repacking

5. 💎 High-value shipment issues

• Problem: Customs might challenge declared value if it seems under-declared.
• Add-ons:
  • Demand for proof of purchase
  • Fine for misdeclaration
  • Goods returned or confiscated

6. 🎁 Personal shipments mistaken for commercial

• Problem: Gifts or personal items flagged as commercial goods due to volume or packaging.
• Countries Affected: UK, South Africa, Singapore
• Add-ons:
  • Charged duties
  • Held for business registration
  • Additional identity proof required

7. 🙈 Receiver unaware of duties payable

• Problem: Receiver refuses to pay customs duties or is unaware.
• Add-ons:
  • Return shipping at sender’s cost
  • Storage charges at customs
  • Abandonment of shipment

8. ⏱️ Customs delays during holiday/strike periods

• Problem: Clearance may be delayed due to public holidays, strikes, or backlog.
• Countries Affected: France, Italy, USA (during Christmas/New Year)
• Add-ons:
  • Time-sensitive parcels get delayed
  • No compensation available for delay

9. 🏷️ Language or labeling regulations

• Problem: Some countries require labels in local languages or specific product certifications.
• Countries Affected: France, Saudi Arabia, Brazil
• Add-ons:
  • Mandatory re-labeling
  • Refusal at border
  • Penalties for non-compliance

10. 📜 Import licenses or permits required

• Problem: Certain items like supplements, electronics, or branded goods need prior import license.
• Countries Affected: Japan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia
• Add-ons:
  • Shipment held indefinitely
  • Additional paperwork required
  • Local authority clearance

11. 🧾 Improper HS code or product classification

• Problem: Misclassification leads to wrong duty rate or suspicion.
• Add-ons:
  • Customs re-assessment
  • Fine or extra duty
  • Delay in clearance

12. 🌐 Country-specific trade sanctions or regulations

• Problem: Some countries have embargoes or restrictions on items from certain origins (e.g., China to USA).
• Add-ons:
  • Shipment rejected
  • Legal issues or documentation scrutiny

💡 Add-ons / Charges that may be incurred:

✅ Suggestions to customers:

• Always declare items accurately with correct HS code.
• Avoid sending restricted items unless approved.
• Provide detailed invoice with proper value.
• Confirm with the receiver if they are ready to handle customs charges.
• Contact Asia Express team before shipping for country-specific advice.