Customs detained package Customs has 35 days from the date of arrival in the United States to detain and examine the merchandise and to make a determination of admis-sibility into the U. However, I've been unable to find a way to speak with anyone in either the USPS or US Customs as to the hold-up. The text urges you to click a link to verify your address and release your “detained” parcel quickly. Knowing these reasons can help you navigate the situation more effectively. However, the link actually leads to a convincing phishing site Please share your feedback below and help us improve our content. What can I do? We understand it can be frustrating and concerning to see that your package is being held in customs. Proactive communication is key. If a package is being held to determine if it's admissible because of a CBP Explore why packages are held in customs, typical hold durations, and expert advice on speeding up the clearance process effectively. The message claims the package is temporarily held or delayed until you confirm your details. “Pending Customs Clearance”: This status update suggests that your package is undergoing a customs review process and has not yet been cleared for release. The next step involves exploring the appeals process, including how to prepare your appeal effectively and what documentation you may need to gather. I received this Text message below today. I have several packages (due to the consolidated shipping) that are listed as "unable to clear customs". Oct 9, 2024 · Scam Overview This clever scheme starts with an unsolicited text message stating U. They said that the parcel was detained by the customs. I think the goods are fake (not genuine, counterfeit, etc). The text urges you to click the link Feb 20, 2023 · Are you waiting for your package? Are you feeling a delay in your shipment? expected arrival date is already past. If you hear that your shipment is detained, anticipate a request for information about the commodity(ies) involved in the shipment. Jul 10, 2023 · If the package is seized by U. Will there be any problems for me if it gets seized or something? It’s If customs or a PGA requires additional information, your package may be held temporarily until the issue is resolved. These emails mimic legitimate USPS update emails both in structure and content. Get insights and tips in this guide. Learn about the process, reasons for holds, required documentation, and more. Customs oficers. Customs: You have a USPS parcel being cleared, due to the detection of an invalid zip code address, the parcel can not be cleared, the parcel is temporarily detained, please confirm the zip code address information in the link within 24 hours. Customs has detained a package addressed to you sent from China, due to an “invalid shipping address. However, the link actually leads to a convincing phishing site Dec 15, 2024 · Packages stay in customs up to 4 weeks. However, since the package arrived in the Netherlands, the delivery status has been static at 'Held by customs. Learn what held in customs means, why it happens, and how to fix a package stuck at the border. May 27, 2022 · Although the customs clearance process is standard procedure, the length of time you can expect to wait until your package leaves the ISC processing facility in Los Angeles City varies widely. Oct 2, 2024 · U. Can i get a refund from DHgate for this? What to Do If Your Package Is Held by Customs If your package is held by customs, here are some effective ways to respond: Contact the Carrier or Customs Authority If you receive a notice that your package has been held, first contact the logistics carrier or local customs to understand the reason for the hold and the next steps. "Smishing" is the term the Postal Service Jul 7, 2022 · Why is Customs holding my package? ‘Held at Customs’ means the package you are sending to the destination country is held by the officials of the importer country’s customs office. Mar 3, 2025 · The primary point of contact for inquiries about packages held by customs is the U. The notice states that the imported goods have been detained, the reason for the detention, and the expected length of the detention. May 30, 2023 · Learn how to identify if your package has been seized by USPS. Investigate any outstanding duties or taxes; promptly addressing these often expedites release. During this time, the package will undergo inspection, screening, and assessment of any duties owed. What happens if a package doesn’t clear customs? Learn about delays, fees, and steps you can take to resolve issues when shipments get held at customs. Using counterfeit postage—fake stamps or labels indicating unpaid delivery fees—can also result in the package being confiscated. This is usually due to paperwork, duties, or item restrictions. This can cause a lot of delays and problems for businesses. A held shipment may have missing or incomplete paperwork, be waiting for clearance instructions or the authorities may need more information to clear the goods. Customs has detected an invalid zip code for your package, preventing it from clearing customs and delaying delivery. Oct 26, 2025 · Any package that raises red flags during these inspections may be detained for further investigation. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the authority to detain, seize, and even destroy cargo it finds unsuitable for entry into the United States. If your package is held at customs, you should contact the courier company in charge of your shipment. Our guide details the clearance process, fees, and instructions for your package's smooth delivery. When I track my package it says, “Held by Customs”? Please release my package. Dec 24, 2024 · Goods being held by customs is a common shipping issue. . The messages state various reasons for the package being stuck, like insufficient postage paid, customs May 19, 2025 · Have you received unsolicited mobile text messages with an unfamiliar or strange web link that indicates a USPS delivery requires a response from you? If you never signed up for a USPS tracking request for a specific package, then don’t click the link! This type of text message is a scam called smishing. Expediting your shipments Ask CBP questions about the circumstances of a shipment before it is shipped. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during international shipping, USPS will send a seizure notice to the addressee indicating the item has been detained. Their oversight helps maintain national security, protect public health, and support economic integrity. Jun 22, 2022 · For example, if the package is being held for inspection by customs, DHL has no control over how long it will take them to release the shipment. S Mar 27, 2025 · The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has no involved in agreements between the seller and the consumer and cannot track packages. This can happen due to various reasons, such as customs regulations, lack of proper documentation, or suspicion of prohibited goods. A delay in customs can lead to a delay in supply chain activities, which in turn can delay product delivery and cause customer dissatisfaction. Find out why your package is stuck in Canadian customs and learn the steps to resolve delays and clear your shipment smoothly. We explain how to pay AliExpress customs, what to do if a customs notification arrives, what documentation you need and much more. May 19, 2025 · Have you received unsolicited mobile text messages with an unfamiliar or strange web link that indicates a USPS delivery requires a response from you? If you never signed up for a USPS tracking request for a specific package, then don’t click the link! This type of text message is a scam called smishing. Dec 20, 2024 · Review the "What can I do if I feel the information regarding my departure from the United States is incorrect?" section on the I-94 FAQ page. Hope the postman didn't just decide to bring it home for himself. customs policies—especially after the T86 clearance mode was discontinued and the $800 duty-free threshold canceled—inspections and delays have become increasingly common. Find reasons why shipments are held at customs. A bit of digging showed me that packages can take up to 45 working days in US Customs. Quite often, consumers are told that the goods are with CBP, but that is not always the case. Just give it a couple days, it is probably a backlog of packages at the moment Reply reply Costakambo • https://discord. Sep 27, 2024 · If you believe your package has been unfairly held, you may file a claim or appeal with the relevant authorities or the carrier. However Ever wondered why your international package seems to vanish into thin air? Navigating the customs clearance process can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Similarly, in case of a natural disaster or bad weather and other such situations, there’s pretty much nothing DHL can do to expedite the process. S. The length of time your package will be held in customs can vary, but it is typically a few days. Get detailed information about different types of customs holds and what causes them. Oct 27, 2018 · In the United States, outgoing and incoming packages that raise suspicion or lack proper documentation are detained by the U. Oct 7, 2025 · Are you tired of waiting for your shipment to arrive in Canada? Learn how to navigate Canada customs delays and expedite your package delivery! Find answers to frequently asked questions about USPS services, including items held in customs. If it has, you would've received a notice from customs by now and the tracking would've had another description. ) If not, does this actually mean my package is being inspected/opened by customs and I just got unlucky Feb 27, 2025 · The company I had ordered from informed me on February 10 that my package was still being held at customs “due to unexpected US customs delays following the recently enacted trade laws and Feb 6, 2023 · Final thoughts: international service center Businesses send millions of packages abroad every year. ) Is this a normal status for all parcels using the duty-free line? 2. Feb 8, 2025 · U. 3 During that period of time, it is the obligation of U. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) holds the authority to detain, seize, and even destroy cargo they find unsuitable for entry into the United States. Based on the last update: 2022-04-24 23:14 【US New York Gateway（美国纽约口岸）,US】Shipment loaded, prepare to send to next station. Aug 5, 2025 · Customs agencies regulate the flow of goods across national borders. Import Program Detention & Hearing FDA Detained Hearing Testimony Appearance of Violation Dec 12, 2024 · When your package gets stuck in customs, it can feel like a rollercoaster of emotions—frustration, confusion, and a dash of impatience. Nov 12, 2024 · What is the U. Sep 27, 2025 · Worried about your package being stuck in customs? In this blog we'll dive into why packages are held at customs and what you can do to fix and prevent it. The longer you pay the tax, the longer the box stays at customs. Customs and Border Protection department to ensure the packages and its contents comply with the country's laws and regulations. Hello all! I received the attached text message which I do believe is a scam, my problem comes that I have a package which is coming from china. Jun 25, 2010 · While held by U. These government bodies hold the packages until they ensure that only permissible items cross their border and the taxes (Duties & Excise) are paid for the import. I was taken aback I have sent packages to Thailand for several times, and the first time I encountered the situation that the packages were detained by the customs in Thailand. Customs and Border Protection, CBP Directive No. ' As it has been some time since the last status update, I am becoming more worried about the parcel. What secrets do customs officials know that could be keeping your shipment in limbo? I’ve spent years helping people understand import regulations and tackle customs challenges. Aug 9, 2023 · Having a package held by customs can be worrying. This article will answer all the questions like why, what, and how the packages get stuck in customs and how to prevent If you’ve recently received messages like “My package has been stuck at customs for 55 days”, you’re not alone. Mar 27, 2025 · The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has no involved in agreements between the seller and the consumer and cannot track packages. There have been no updates since. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. As proposed by other redditors Sep 21, 2020 · If you do not, and customs officers ask you to send, then the package will be detained by customs until you provide the correct information. Customs and Border Protection provides guidelines on how to proceed with appeals for seized goods. Oct 9, 2024 · Scam Overview This parcel delivery scam starts with an unsolicited SMS text message stating there is a problem clearing your package through Canadian Customs due to invalid zip code information. Customs, de-tained cargo is transferred to a Cen-tralized Examination Station (CES) where it is separated and intensively examined by U. Our team helps clients design reconditioning plans, protocols, and proposals to deal with FDA holds & detentions. This article will summarize the key things you need to know if your shipment ends up stuck in customs at its destination. Jan 3, 2025 · Those expecting a package from the postal service have been receiving a text claiming an invalid zip code caused the parcel to be detained. Here's what you should do. Oct 2, 2024 · Understanding customs package seizure in Australia can help you navigate this challenging situation. By understanding these common causes and taking proactive steps to address them, you can minimize the risk of detainment and ensure smoother international shipping experiences. I am 99% sure that my package is not being detained in customs due to it being a very benign object and also because I have looked into it with customs. While it’s frustrating, it’s a common part of international shipping and we’re here to help you understand what’s going on. The messages state various reasons for the package being stuck, like insufficient postage paid, customs The term "my package stuck in customs" refers to a situation where an internationally shipped package is held in customs, awaiting clearance. Oct 25, 2018 · If, for some reason, the CBP has detained your package, the CBP International Mail Branch holding it will notify you of the reason in writing and explain how you can get it released. May 14, 2025 · Having a shipment held at customs can destroy your customers buying experience and incur cost in terms of lost revenue. S Customs USPS Parcel Scam Overview The U. Customs: You have a USPS parcel being cleared, due to the detection of an invalid zip code address, the parcel can not be cleared, the parcel is temporarily detained, please confirm the zip code address information in the link within 24 Sep 28, 2020 · Have you just shipped internationally, and your package got stuck in customs? In this article, you will see why this happens and what you can do. customs is holding my package, what do I do? Customs detaining packages is a common occurrence in the trade sector. You likely have questions about why it’s being held, what needs to happen for it to be released, and how long the delay will be. " Why does this happen? How long does it take? What can you do about it? And explain how different modes of shipping (truck, train, plane, or ship) affect the process. Hi ladies,I received a message from the customer on November 25th. Victims Expediting your shipments Ask CBP questions about the circumstances of a shipment before it is shipped. This authority extends to all small to medium packages dispatched via USPS, DHL, FedEx, UPS, and similar Aug 2, 2025 · U. Our guide covers the signs to look for and what steps to take if your package is seized. Common Reasons Why Orders Are Held by Customs Incomplete or Incorrect Discover the expected UPS clearance time for your "Clearance in Progress" package and navigate the UPS customs clearance process with ease. If your package is stuck in customs, it means it’s temporarily being held by customs authorities in the destination country. Dec 4, 2024 · Explore the legal framework and individual rights related to customs detention, including duration and challenging unlawful practices. I ordered a basketball jersey from DHgate and received a letter from my national customs office saying that my order was detained for "infringing an Intellectual Property Right". so is my scammer aware of that or is this just random? Or is it possible that I’m wrong all together? Dec 18, 2024 · Customs authorities can provide more specific information about why your package is being held and what steps you need to take. S Customs USPS Parcel scam starts with an SMS or text message. Understanding Customs Holds Customs holds happen when your package arrives at a country’s border and is detained for inspection. Find answers to common questions about customs forms, regulations, and international shipping with USPS. Sep 30, 2023 · Discover Why Would a Package Be Held In Customs, and learn how to navigate customs delays effectively. Staying informed and prepared can help mitigate delays caused by such exceptions. Oct 16, 2025 · What happens if a package is seized by Customs Canada? Read more to know what to do and get tips for hassle-free cross-border shipping. Furthermore, the ISC Los Angeles CA has garnered quite a reputation for being a black hole for international USPS shipments, (see the section below). USPS Awaits my package from Customs due to ineligible address. We can’t intervene or ask about the status of any package in customs. May 29, 2023 · For example, packages held in customs may necessitate the recipient to provide extra information or pay applicable fees to release the package. Customs Forms - The Basics Receiving items from overseas that have gone through customs, preparing customs forms for mailpieces going overseas and customs forms requirements for military and diplomatic mail. At this time, you can contact the freight forwarder or logistics company to understand the specific situation and get further guidance. Here are my questions: 1. If your package is held by customs, start by contacting your shipping carrier to uncover the issue. If CBP decides to detain the goods, a Notice of Detention is sent to the importer or to the importer’s customs broker/agent no later than five (5) business days from the date of examination. CBP will only account for packages that have been seized and detained by CBP. Jan 5, 2017 · Items and merchandise held by Customs are sent to a Centralized Examination Station (“CES”) to “maintain control and accountability of merchandise imported into the United States” (U. Apr 24, 2025 · Have you ever had customs detain your package? This means that the company cannot deliver the goods to customers within the normal time. Oct 3, 2025 · Is your package held in customs Canada? Find out the common reasons why this and the best solution to get your package cleared. Normally, they should be able to help you with the customs clearing process, or even, just identifying the problem. You will have 30 days to file a petition or 35 days to make an offer in Why would a package be held in customs? Shipments are held in customs to ensure they satisfy export or import customs regulations. A parcel was detained by Customs, then released, but in the meantime Pejabat Pos sent me a notice. Jun 18, 2025 · What Does Customs Hold/Customs Release Mean? If you’re managing international shipments, seeing a status like “held in customs” can be frustrating and confusing. If it matters, the package contains a camera. Using this tool will allow you to see your shipment's status and the remaining time left for CPSC to review the shipment. Clearing Personal Goods as an Arriving Passenger Jun 12, 2023 · Summary: Customs Retention or Investigation The “Customs Retention or Investigation” tracking alert simply means that customs has held the shipment for closer inspection. Sep 19, 2023 · Find out what happens if your shipment gets held by customs. Although there are many cases where customs seizes gold, money, or other property and also many cases where people are detained by Customs, in these certain specific scenarios it wasn’t what happened. Unfortunately, many of these packages are held up by customs and detained for inspection, causing delays at ISC New York and other clearance facilities. Why would a package be held in customs? Shipments are held in customs to ensure they satisfy export or import customs regulations. The text claims your parcel is “temporarily detained” and cannot be delivered until you confirm your full address in a provided link. This can result in delays and additional storage fees and potentially customs penalties. It’s impossible to tell what is really happening without having an experienced person look at the situation, but here are some considerations. Parcel arrived before I received the notice. When packages get held at destination, it’s not just The detained shipment can be sent to a Commodities Specialist Team and/or a Center of Excellence and Expertise for further evaluation by an Import Specialist trained for a particular line of merchandise. May 4, 2024 · Goods get detained at customs for various reasons, including incomplete paperwork, unpaid duties, security concerns, and shipping restricted items. Dec 15, 2024 · Packages stay in customs up to 4 weeks. The letter states that the jersey will be destroyed. Learn how to quickly get your shipment released and how to avoid this issue. The U. In your case, however, the item still hasn't shown up even though tracking shows it went out for delivery. A link is provided to validate your zip code and address information. This article aims to clarify why a package might be held by customs and outline the necessary Aug 7, 2023 · Facing a customs hold? Let USA Customs Clearance demystify the process. Learn more about customs brokers and what’s involved in the customs clearance process. Anyways, on March 4th I got an update saying that the package was “Customs Held” at the destination airport. But what exactly does it mean? A customs hold occurs when authorities temporarily detain your shipment at the border for inspection or verification of paperwork. Customs will contact you in case of a “held by customs” package In case the package is detained, customs will contact you to inform you of the documentation you need to present. My package is in customs. USPS is using Hotmail email addresses now and “detain” packages? I think I should kindly ignore it. Customs Detainment Notice Scam? This scam starts with potential victims receiving a text message claiming that U. Thoroughly check your paperwork for any discrepancies. All of my packages have then updated to "cleared customs". U. My package is lost (was never scanned as being removed off of the shipping container) and I had the sender initiate an investigation with the originating country. Feb 20, 2025 · It can be frustrating to have your package stuck in customs while shipping internationally, this can happen for numerous reasons. This dedicated center provides a direct line to information and assistance regarding customs-related issues, including package detention. I order 2 case of individual lashes and a bodysuit from Temu and the tracking says “Your parcel’s electronic custom clearance data is detained by CBSA and would be under further inspection after landed” what does that mean? I’ve order from Temu a couple of times and this is the first time this had happen. Dec 2, 2024 · If the package is detained by customs, it will usually show "delayed customs clearance" or a similar status in the logistics tracking information. Jan 1, 2025 · A customs hold on your package? First, reach out to your shipping carrier and third-party logistics provider. This can be especially helpful if the delay is related to a more complex issue, such as restricted goods or unclear paperwork. Jul 22, 2020 · What can you do if your shipment is held by customs? If your shipment is held by US Customs, please contact the transport company and wait for information from the staff. If concern for end use or end user, seek an export license from Commerce or DDTC. Get tips to avoid future customs delays. Will there be any problems for me if it gets seized or something? It’s Welcome to CPSC's shipment tracking tool. 3270-007A). Without the notice of detention, we cannot find your package, even if it is being held by CBP. customs is holding my FedEx package, so what should I do?Customs detaining packages is a common occurrence in the trade sector. What happens next? If Customs seizes your items, you should receive a notice of seizure in the mail. Customs is the government authority overseeing goods that cross national borders, ensuring compliance with local laws, safety standards, and tax regulations, and collecting applicable duties. gg/WBdgBUvs Reply reply More replies Chemical-Theory-157 • twotwo different sellersone packagebeginningnot at the end that Reply reply Costakambo • Reply reply May 31, 2022 · Consumers should beware of a U. Jan 5, 2025 · Customs Involvement Indicators “Held by Customs” or “In Customs”: These messages explicitly indicate that your package has been detained by customs. There's no indication that the parcel has been seized, despite what the support officer is claiming. Waiting for an international package can be stressful—especially when the tracking status suddenly gets stuck at "arrived at customs" or "held at customs. It states there is an issue verifying your zip code or address for a pending delivery. Oct 3, 2025 · CBP only handle packages that are in our custody, we are unable to help locate a missing package unless you have received a "Notice of Detention" letter issued by CBP. Please remove all hyphens from your entry number to track the shipment. Sep 29, 2024 · Curious about customs clearance time frames? Learn how long customs clearance takes and what factors influence the process. If you're waiting for a package that's stuck in customs, don't panic! Our article outlines the steps you can take to get your package released and delivered to you. This is normally triggered due to a random, routine customs check, however, issues such as incomplete documentation, contraband, or security concerns will also cause the alert to be sent. Smishing is a form of phishing that involves a text message or phone number. This can occur for various reasons, including documentation issues, concerns regarding the contents, or unpaid tariffs. Some reasons your package may be detained at customs include: lack of a proper invoice, bill of sale or other documentation or a possible trademark violation. They ensure compliance with import laws, collect duties and taxes, and prevent the entry of prohibited or restricted items. This tool will allow you to check the status of your shipment using your entry number with your filer code included. Navigate UPS customs with ease. Ask the representative about the issue and make sure you’ve provided all the necessary documents. The notice of seizure will explain what your options are. Why do I have to pay taxes for package sent as gifts? Why is a proof of payment is needed? Why pay duties and taxes for donated items? Why pay tax for second hand/used goods We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Sep 2, 2023 · Scam Overview The USPS Your Delivery Has Been Detained scam works by sending authentic-looking but fraudulent emails claiming that a package delivery addressed to the recipient has been halted at a USPS facility. Let’s break down why packages are being held and […] Will customs sell of my package and put money into national taxes, or anything I don't know? If you opt not to pursue with paying taxes, they will confiscate the phone and auction it down the line, as the owner you will be liable for some of the cost price that you owe after deduction of storage charges there. Oct 3, 2025 · If CBP has detained your package for some reason (for example, lack of a proper invoice, bill of sale, or other documentation, a possible trademark violation, or if the package requires a formal entry) the CBP International Mail Branch holding it will notify you of the reason for detention (in writing) and how you can get it released. True Packages can be held due to documentation issues or inspections. Victims Jun 9, 2021 · 1. is customs-detained a shipment? If a package is detained by Customs an advisory will be sent to the recipient from the Post Office, stating the reason for the detention and what is required. Oct 18, 2024 · U. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) INFO Center. Learn why customs can sometimes hold shipments, what you can do about it, and how to avoid a customs delay next time. Your package will go through customs to verify its contents, collect any applicable duties or taxes, and ensure compliance with import regulations. However, it’s standard for all international packages to be screened before being cleared for delivery. With the recent overhaul of U. Postal Service (USPS) text message "smishing" scam that sends unexpected alerts about a supposed package delivery issue. “ U. Customs detained or seized my internet purchase. Looking for some advice on what to do. ” The message states that you must click a provided link within 24 hours to “confirm your address information” so they can release the package. Aug 7, 2025 · International packages must pass through customs in both exporting and importing countries. On the 6th of July, I sent a parcel to a friend in the Netherlands.