Watch: Customs Clearance for Household Goods
An international move can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. The timeline includes more than the advertised ocean or air transit time.
Video Transcript
“How are household goods cleared through customs during an international move?
This 35-second guide explains the general customs process, from submitting a declaration and detailed inventory to document review, possible inspection and shipment release.
Customs authorities may review who owns the belongings, what each package contains, the declared value and whether restricted or prohibited items are included.
Some shipments are released following document review, while others may require additional information, payment of applicable duties or taxes, or a physical inspection.
Requirements vary by destination, residency status, shipment contents and transport method.
Describing belongings as ‘personal effects’ does not automatically guarantee duty-free entry or customs release.
Prepare accurate and consistent documents, avoid vague inventory descriptions and confirm the latest requirements with the destination customs authority, your customs broker or moving provider.”
