What is customs clearance?
Customs clearance is the process of legalizing goods when importing or exporting across borders. It includes submitting a declaration, verifying documents, paying duties, and passing inspections. For businesses, it can be a routine step or a potential risk factor.
Main steps:
Document preparation
Invoice
Packing list
Supply contract
Certificates and licenses (if required)
Selecting and confirming the HS Code
The code determines the duty rate and whether additional permits are needed. Errors here can result in fines or seizure of goods.
Declaration submission
Via a customs broker or directly, if access is granted.
Control and verification
Customs authorities may request additional documents or perform an inspection.
Duty payment and cargo release
Why is the HS Code important?
The HS Code is the core of the entire customs process. It affects:
The amount of duty and VAT
Certification requirements
Legality of import into a specific country
Wrong code = risk of delays, penalties, and recalculations.
How to avoid issues?
Use an experienced customs broker. Filing independently is possible but requires deep legal knowledge.
Automate customs procedures via API. We offer services for HS code selection and declaration generation — this reduces workload and speeds up processing.
Check if the product is subject to import restrictions — e.g., dual-use goods, pharmaceuticals, food items, etc.
Stay updated on customs regulations in both origin and destination countries — they can change.
How we help
Our logistics platform includes a customs clearance service:
Automatic declaration generation
HS code selection
Label and document printing
Support during inspections
We work with shipments from the EU, China, Turkey, and other countries — for individuals and businesses.
Summary
Accurate customs clearance isn’t just a legal formality — it helps avoid losses, delays, and issues with recipients. Focus on precision and automation to save both time and money.