Pre-Shipment Consultation and Documentation
We begin by reviewing your shipment and guiding you through the required documentation. Everything is prepared in accordance with the requirements of your destination country.
Customs support
Customs Clearance for International Moving
Moving your household goods across an international border involves more than getting your shipment from one port to another. Customs authorities need to know what you are importing, who is importing it, where the goods came from, and whether the shipment meets the destination country's requirements. Missing or inaccurate information can lead to inspections, additional charges, or delays.
At International Sea & Air Shipping, we provide customs clearance support as part of our international moving services. We help prepare and review documentation, identify destination requirements, coordinate with customs and destination agents, and keep your shipment moving toward final delivery.
With more than 75 years of international shipping experience and a network of 600+ agents worldwide, we can coordinate the customs stage alongside the rest of your relocation.
Licensed, accredited and connected
How it works
What Does Customs Clearance Involve?
Customs clearance is the process of declaring your shipment to the appropriate authorities so your belongings can legally enter the destination country. For an international move, this typically involves providing identification, shipment details, an inventory of your belongings, and any additional documents required for your circumstances.
Requirements differ substantially between countries. Some destinations require proof of residence, visas or work permits, employer letters, certificates of origin, detailed inventories, or specific customs forms. Certain items may also require permits or additional documentation.
Our role is to help you understand these requirements before your shipment arrives. We review the information associated with your move, help organize the required paperwork, and coordinate with the destination side of the shipment so potential documentation issues can be addressed as early as possible.
Paperwork
What Documents Are Needed for Customs?
The exact documentation depends on your destination, residency status, shipment contents, and whether you are moving household goods, a vehicle, or specialty items. Common documents can include:
- Passport or other identification
- Visa, residence permit, or work permit where applicable
- Detailed inventory or packing list
- Bill of lading or air waybill
- Customs declarations
- Proof of residence or change of residence
- Employer or transfer documentation for certain relocations
- Purchase invoices or proof of ownership for particular items
- Special permits or certificates for restricted goods
For example, customs requirements for Canada include passports, visas or work permits, detailed inventories, customs forms, and immigration documentation. Germany may require proof of residence, a residence permit, a detailed inventory, and evidence of foreign residence.
Because documentation varies by destination, we work from the requirements applicable to your specific move rather than treating every international shipment the same way.
View our destination guide for customs requirements for your destination country.
Timing
How Long Does Customs Clearance Take?
There is no single customs clearance timeline that applies to every country or shipment. We generally estimate between 24-72 hours, but destination rules, shipment contents, documentation, inspections, and local procedures can all affect the actual timeframe.
Some destinations have additional timing requirements. For example, in Canada, air shipments must be cleared within 48 hours to avoid storage charges. Other countries may require the customer to be present for clearance or have documents submitted to the destination agent before the shipment arrives. South Africa’s guidance, for example, states that required documents should reach the destination agent at least seven days before vessel arrival.
Duties and taxes
What Customs Fees Should You Expect?
Customs fees are not a single charge applied to every international shipment. Depending on the destination and circumstances, you may encounter customs duties, VAT or other taxes, inspection-related charges, port or terminal fees, storage charges, or other destination costs.
The amount can depend on factors such as the declared value and type of goods, country of origin, destination regulations, residency status, and whether particular items qualify for an exemption. Duties and taxes are commonly calculated using the value of the goods together with shipping and insurance, although the exact calculation varies by country.
Some destinations provide duty exemptions for qualifying household goods. Germany, for example, has conditions under which household goods can enter duty-free, while Canada provides exemptions for certain returning residents who meet its requirements. New purchases or restricted items can be treated differently.
We can explain the customs and tax considerations relevant to your destination so you can account for them when planning your international relocation costs. Final duties, taxes, and other government charges remain subject to the destination authorities.
Free customs clearance quote
Reach out to us for a detailed quote within 24 hours.
Our process
Our Simple 4-Step Customs Clearance Process
We’ve refined the customs clearance process into four clear steps, making it easy to understand and manage.
Expert Declaration and Submission
Our team manages the declaration and submission of your paperwork, ensuring it is handled accurately and efficiently.
Duty and Tax Guidance
We provide clear, supportive guidance on applicable duties and taxes so you know exactly what to expect. Our experts outline how regulations and exemptions may affect your shipment, so you can budget without unexpected fees.
Final Clearance and Delivery
Once clearance is complete, we coordinate the final stages, including home delivery, unboxing, and setup at the final destination.
Restricted goods
Restricted Items and Customs Inspections
A detailed inventory is important because customs authorities need to know what is entering the country. Some goods may be prohibited outright, while others require permits, declarations, proof of ownership, or additional certificates.
Items that can require special attention include:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Food
- Plants
- High-value items such as artwork, antiques, gold
- Commercial quantities of any item
Vehicle shipments can also involve additional government requirements beyond standard customs procedures; however, our international car shipping service takes care of all customs clearance.
Why us
Why Choose International Sea & Air Shipping for Customs Support?
International customs requirements can become complicated when you are simultaneously managing packing, transportation, immigration documents, delivery arrangements, and your move itself. Having one international shipping company coordinate these stages can make the process easier to manage.
With more than 75 years of experience, a 600+ agent global network, and established international moving services, International Sea & Air Shipping can coordinate customs clearance for international moving alongside transportation and destination delivery. We also maintain memberships and credentials, including the International Association of Movers, FMC and FMCSA affiliations, and BBB accreditation, ensuring that you always get certified, experienced service.
Get in touch today for an international customs clearance quote, and let our team help coordinate the customs requirements for your shipment.
Helpful answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if customs asks for additional information about my shipment?
If customs requires additional documentation or clarification, we can help identify what is needed and coordinate with the relevant parties. Having an accurate inventory, valid contact information, and any required licenses or certificates ready can help keep the clearance process moving. If a shipment is selected for inspection or further review, the timing ultimately depends on the customs authority and local procedures.
How are customs duties and VAT calculated on an international shipment?
Customs duties and taxes are generally calculated according to the value and type of goods being imported, although the exact method varies by country. Depending on the destination, the calculation may take into account the value of the goods, shipping costs, and insurance, and VAT or other taxes may also apply.
Are there special customs requirements for unusual or high-value items?
Yes. Certain shipments may require additional documentation or permits. Cultural artifacts, raw materials, wedding trousseaus, fine art, antiques, automobiles, and other specialty belongings can have requirements beyond standard household goods. Depending on the shipment, this may include certificates, licenses, proof of origin, employer transfer letters, or diplomatic documentation. We can help identify the additional paperwork required for your particular shipment.
How long does customs clearance take for an international shipment?
Customs clearance typically takes 24 to 72 hours, although the actual timeframe depends on the destination country, the type of items being shipped, the completion of your documents, and local customs procedures. Inspections or requests for additional information can extend the process. We coordinate the required documentation and work with the destination side of your shipment to help prevent avoidable delays.
Do I have to be present for customs clearance?
It depends on the destination country and the type of shipment. Some countries require the owner to be present when household goods are cleared, while others allow a destination agent to handle the process on your behalf with the required authorization and documentation. We can advise you on the customs procedures that apply to your move and let you know if your presence will be required.