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OUR GOAL
To provide an A-to-Z e-commerce logistics solution that would complete Amazon fulfillment network in the European Union.
Customs Clearance Basics for E-commerce Businesses
What Customs Clearance Actually Means for E-commerce
Customs clearance is the process where government authorities examine and approve imported goods before they enter a country. For e-commerce sellers, it happens every time inventory crosses an international border—whether shipping from China to the US, EU, UK, or Australia.
In 2026, clearance is no longer a “someone else’s problem.” Delays cost 1–3 days per hold, duties can add 5–30% to landed cost, and mistakes trigger seizures or fines.
Key Concepts Every E-commerce Importer Must Know
HS Codes (Harmonized System)
6–10 digit codes classifying every product. Determines duty rate, restrictions, and paperwork.
Example:
- 4202.92 → Travel bags → 17.8% duty (US)
- 6110.30 → Synthetic sweaters → 32% duty (US Section 301)
Tip: Wrong HS code = automatic hold or penalty. Use official tariff lookup tools (WCO, USITC, EU TARIC).
Duties and Taxes
- Import Duty: Percentage of goods value (CIF = Cost + Insurance + Freight)
- VAT/GST: Value-Added Tax (EU 20–27%, UK 20%, AU 10%)
- Anti-Dumping/Section 301: Extra tariffs on Chinese-origin goods (up to 25%)
Incoterms 2020 – Who Pays What
| Incoterm | Risk Transfer | Who Pays Freight | Who Handles Customs | Best for E-commerce |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXW | Buyer at factory | Buyer | Buyer | Never (too risky) |
| FCA | Buyer at named place | Buyer | Buyer | Common |
| DAP | Buyer at destination | Seller | Buyer | Good balance |
| DDP | Seller at destination | Seller | Seller | Best (seller pays all) |
Most reputable forwarders offer DDP for Amazon FBA.
Required Documents for Smooth Clearance
| Document | Purpose | Who Provides |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares value, description, HS codes | Supplier |
| Packing List | Details weight, dimensions, quantity | Supplier |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Proof of transport | Forwarder/Carrier |
| Certificate of Origin | Proves country of manufacture | Supplier/Chamber |
| Import Licenses (if needed) | For restricted goods (toys, electronics) | Seller |
Missing or incorrect documents = 100% hold.
Common Clearance Delays and How to Prevent Them
| Issue | Frequency | Avg. Delay | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incorrect/Incomplete Invoice | 38% | 3–12 days | Use standardized template with full details |
| Wrong HS Code | 24% | 5–21 days | Double-check with broker or tariff database |
| Undervaluation | 18% | Seizure | Declare real commercial value |
| Missing Certificates | 12% | 7–30 days | Pre-identify restricted categories |
| Wooden Packaging (ISPM-15) | 8% | Rejection | Require heat-treated or fumigated pallets |
Country-Specific Nuances in 2026
United States
- CBP (Customs & Border Protection)
- Section 321 de minimis $800 (no duty/VAT under $800/shipment)
- Formal entry >$2,500 requires customs bond
European Union
- One customs union, but VAT per country
- IOSS (Import One-Stop Shop) for <€150 shipments
- CBAM carbon tax starting 2026 on high-emission goods
United Kingdom (Post-Brexit)
- Separate from EU
- £135 de minimis
- Requires EORI number for all commercial imports
Australia / Canada
- GST collected at border (no de minimis for GST)
- Strict biosecurity (Australia)
Practical Tips for E-commerce Businesses
- Use a Licensed Customs Broker – Built into most good freight forwarders (Basenton, SFC, etc.)
- Choose DDP Terms – Forwarder handles everything; you pay one price
- Pre-Classify Products – Get binding tariff rulings for expensive items
- Split High-Value Shipments – Stay under formal entry thresholds when possible
- Track Everything – Use forwarder portals; respond to customs queries <24h
When to Hire a Customs Broker Separately
- Volume >$500k/year
- Restricted or high-duty categories (toys, textiles, electronics)
- Regular FDA, EPA, or FCC-regulated goods
Cost: $75–$250 per entry—pays for itself in avoided delays.
Conclusion
Customs clearance is the invisible gatekeeper between your supplier and your customer’s doorstep.
Treat it as a core competency, not an afterthought: correct documents, accurate HS codes, and reliable partners eliminate 90% of delays and surprise costs.
In 2026, the sellers who master customs will enjoy predictable lead times and protected margins—while competitors scramble with held containers and penalty fees.
Start auditing your last 10 shipments today. One small documentation fix can save thousands tomorrow.
Need a logistics partner who understands the importance of getting every detail right? Contact FLEX..
