[Urgent] Solve [Clearance Information Required] Now!

When a package is shipped internationally, it begins a journey that crosses borders, bringing with it the challenge of navigating through customs.

This process is critical for ensuring that all shipments meet the regulations, duties, and taxes imposed by the destination country.

A common hurdle that many face is receiving a tracking update from UPS stating “Clearance Information Required” or encountering a “Clearance Delay.”

At first glance, these terms can be perplexing, leaving one wondering what exactly they mean and what actions need to be taken.

The notice “Clearance Information Required” is an indication that there is missing paperwork or data essential for the customs process.

The objective of this guide is to elucidate the procedure involved in these notices and clarify why they are a customary aspect of global shipping.

It is not merely about packages needing to clear customs before they can make their final delivery; it’s about ensuring that all required information is met to facilitate this.

While it may be frustrating to deal with delays, understanding the various reasons they occur and knowing how to resolve them can help get your deliveries back on track quickly.

What To Do When You Receive a UPS “Clearance Information Required” Alert

Upon receiving a “Clearance Information Required” alert from UPS, the recipient of the package must understand that this message signifies a halt in the customs clearance process.

The first step is to contact the shipper directly, as they hold the responsibility for resolving any issues that have arisen.

The shipper, in turn, should contact UPS International promptly, armed with the tracking number and a detailed description of the tracking update received.

This action is the preliminary step in addressing the delay and moving towards a solution.

The shipper must be prepared to provide comprehensive details about the contents of the shipment, including the paperwork already included and the various values associated with the items being shipped.

This information is vital for the UPS representative, who will likely escalate the issue by putting you in touch with a UPS brokerage employee.

This specialized agent will dig deeper into the specifics of your shipment to identify precisely what clearance information is required.

This collaborative approach between the shipper, recipient, and UPS ensures that any barriers to customs clearance are addressed efficiently, aiming to get your package back on track as quickly as possible.

Check This Out: What Happens When A Package Returns To Sender?

Will the UPS tracking update include details of what clearance information is required?

When faced with a UPS tracking update indicating “Clearance Information Required,” it’s natural to expect detailed insights into what specific information is missing.

Unfortunately, the update is often scant in detail, not directly revealing the specificities of the clearance information that is required.

This is because it’s a government agency, such as customs, that inspects the shipment and decides whether it has violated any import/export issues.

The process of determining what is needed can take time to reach UPS. In the meantime, recipients are left with a vague notice that additional information is required, without clarity on what that precisely entails.

Will UPS contact me regarding the “clearance information required” update?

When dealing with a “clearance information required” update from UPS, many wonder whether UPS will reach out first or if it’s up to them to make the first step.

While there’s no specific policy dictating when and how UPS will contact you, it’s generally seen that proactive steps by the shipper are often necessary.

Should you find yourself in the position of needing more clarity, it’s advisable to contact UPS as soon as you receive the update. This initiative ensures you’re not left in the dark, waiting for a resolution that requires your action.

In certain instances, UPS may indeed make contact with the shipper if further clearance information is needed, signified by the alert “UPS Initiated Contact with the Sender to Obtain Clearance Information.”

This tracking alert signifies that UPS has already taken steps to gather the necessary details on the missing information.

However, as the recipient, there’s very little you need to do in this scenario, except to ensure the shipper is informed and ready to act accordingly.

Explore More : UPS Tracking Not Updating

How to prevent UPS Clearance Information Required issues in the future

If you want to avoid any potential problems with customs clearance and make your shipping experience with UPS hassle-free, it is advisable to use UPS Customs Brokerage services.

It can prove to be a smart and strategic decision.

These services are designed to handle the complexities of international shipping, making sure that 97% of all shipments are cleared on the same day.

By opting for their in-house brokerage services, shippers can be confident that their paperwork is completed correctly and that their shipments meet all compliance requirements.

This is a recommended approach for those who are shipping internationally on a regular basis, as it significantly reduces the risks of encountering “Clearance Information Required” updates.

UPS Customs Brokerage not only works with small companies and large enterprises but also provides international trade consulting and tax clearance services.

This comprehensive support ensures that businesses of all sizes can navigate the complexities of customs with ease.

Whether you’re a seasoned shipper or new to the game of international trade, utilizing these specialized services from UPS offers a layer of security and efficiency, safeguarding your shipments against delays and compliance pitfalls.

Also Read : Tendered to Returns Agent’ for USPS

What Triggers the “Clearance Information Required” Tracking Alert?

When UPS cannot obtain customs clearance due to the absence of complete data on the shipment contents, values, and recipients, a “Clearance Information Required” alert is triggered.

This alert is an indication that essential information is missing or has issues that need to be addressed before the shipment can proceed. Below are the key triggers for this alert:

Incorrect/Incomplete Paperwork

This is one of the most common triggers. If the shipping manifest, commercial invoice, packing list, or other necessary docs need to be corrected or added data essential for customs clearance, the alert will be raised.

Missing Recipient Information

Customs requires valid contact info, tax IDs, and other data to confirm the identity and eligibility of the recipient. Lack of this information can halt the process.

Prohibited/Restricted Items

Attempting to ship hazardous, sensitive, or regulated goods without the necessary special clearances or exceptions can trigger the alert.

Inadequate Product Descriptions

For customs to accurately assess duties and restrictions, descriptions must detail the contents sufficiently. Vague or insufficient descriptions lead to delays.

Unclassified Commodity Codes

Shipments require HTS codes to categorize products and look up tariffs correctly. Provide these codes so customs can process the goods as required.

Other Documents

Certain sensitive goods might need special permits, licenses, or certificates to clear customs. The absence of these documents will also prompt the alert.

Addressing these issues promptly ensures UPS has the necessary details to process and release the shipment across the border efficiently.

How Do You Clear a UPS Delivery Stuck in Customs?

If you find your UPS package facing a “Clearance Delay” or a “Clearance Information Required” notice, there are several steps you can take to help get it moving again.

Contact the Shipper

The sender is responsible for the customs paperwork and ensuring all info accuracy. They need to provide any missing docs or data that customs may require.

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Verify Recipient Info

It’s essential that the shipper has your full name, address, tax IDs, and contact info correctly filed. Any discrepancy here can lead to delays.

Supply Needed Documents

In cases involving restricted goods, you may need to provide special permits or additional paperwork.

Confirm Product Details

Make sure that the description, HS codes, and values accurately match your shipment contents. Misclassification can cause unnecessary hold-ups.

Get a UPS Importer of Record Account

If you often receive international shipments, acting as the importer via a UPS Importer of Record Account can expedite the clearing of packages addressed to you.

Pay Any Required Duties/Taxes

Sometimes, UPS may not have enough info to calculate the final costs. Being proactive about inquiring and settling any dues can help release the package from customs.

Wait it Out

Some minor delays can clear within a few days, especially once UPS contacts the shippers for any missing information.

Contact UPS

If the issue persists, calling UPS customs brokerage is a wise step to see how they can assist in getting your package released.

Taking these actions can significantly increase the chances of resolving customs issues and receiving your shipment without further delays.

How Long Will It Take for a UPS Shipment to Clear Customs?

The time it takes for a UPS shipment to clear customs can vary significantly, depending on a range of factors. Here’s a general timeline based on the nature of the shipment and the completeness of the required documentation:

• Shipments with complete documents typically clear customs within 24 hours.
• Shipments needing paperwork corrections or tax/duty payments may clear in 1-3 days.
• Complex checks involving permits or missing recipient info can extend clearance to 3-10 days.
• Prohibitive issues or legal investigations can prolong the process to weeks or longer.

It’s important to note that UPS brokers work diligently to release the customs hold as quickly as possible.

However, the process can be smooth if there are paperwork problems or compliance verifications are needed.

Staying patient and communicating effectively with UPS can facilitate a smoother passage of your package across the border.

Does “Clearance Information Required” Mean My Package is Stuck in Customs?

Receiving a “Clearance Information Required” notice for your UPS package doesn’t always imply that it is entangled in intensive customs checks or inspections.

More often than not, this alert is a signal that there are paperwork corrections or clarifications needed to facilitate the standard release and delivery of your shipment.

It’s a reminder that some pieces of information are missing or need to be verified to comply with customs regulations, ensuring a smooth passage.

However, there are instances where the notice can indicate more serious issues, such as a customs inspection due to prohibited or restricted contents, a hold-up for a physical package and product examination, or a delay for duties/tax calculations if values are missing.

In more severe cases, it might even signal legal holds or seizures if serious customs violations are discovered.

That said, unless you have shipped illegal, hazardous, or sensitive goods, the chances of your package being stuck due to heightened screening are relatively low.

It’s advisable to contact UPS directly to understand the specific reasons your clearance cannot proceed and find out how to address it effectively.

Explore Further: What Happens When A Package Returns To Sender?

Why Does UPS Need Clearance Information to Release My Shipment?

To ensure that each package makes its way across borders smoothly and adheres to import regulations, UPS must comply with all destination country legal requirements.

This necessity to legally broker shipments hinges on having accurate, complete trade and transport documents, alongside paying any applicable duties, taxes, and fees.

Additionally, complying with product restrictions and securing special permits when necessary are crucial steps in the process.

The foundation of this requirement is to confirm that all recipients are valid and authorized to receive the goods they are being shipped.

The proper paperwork and data are necessary for UPS to avoid non-compliance, fines, shipment delays, and cargo confiscation, but they also compromise the legal integrity of the shipment itself.

Requiring clearance information is a protective measure for UPS and a guarantee that your items are shipped through customs legally.

This meticulous approach ensures that both UPS and its customers are safeguarded against potential legal and financial repercussions, thereby ensuring a seamless and compliant delivery process.

What Information is Required for UPS Customs Clearance?

For a smooth customs clearance process with UPS, several pieces of information are critical. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to prepare:

Commercial Invoice

This document should list the shipment contents, values, and exporter/importer info, providing a clear picture of the transaction between the buyer and seller.

Packing List

Essential for customs, it details the package types, quantity, weight, and contents of your shipment, ensuring everything is accounted for.

Recipient Tax IDs

The Importer tax number or registration details, such as EORI or SSN, are necessary for identifying the recipient for tax and legal purposes.

Product Descriptions

 Providing detailed specifics of the contents is crucial to confirm that all restrictions are met, especially for regulated goods.

HS Tariff Codes

These Standard 10-digit codes play a vital role in classifying the products shipped and are essential for determining applicable tariffs.

Country of Origin

Knowing where products were manufactured or obtained helps in assessing duties and adhering to trade agreements.

Value Declarations

Declaring the total values of the shipment is essential for assessing duties, taxes, and insurance needs.

Special Permits

For restricted goods, having the necessary licenses or certificates is a must to ensure legal compliance.

Providing this complete data not only facilitates a seamless customs brokerage process but also expedites the release to UPS for the final delivery of your shipment.

Can a Recipient Clear a UPS Shipment Stuck in Customs?

When a UPS delivery is addressed to you but faces a “Clearance Delay” in your country, stepping in as the importer can significantly expedite the release process.

By assuming the role of the Importer of Record with UPS, you empower yourself to directly provide any missing recipient contact data, pay duties and taxes to customs upfront; supply required licenses or certificates, verify product details and customs codes, and finalize any supplementary paperwork that may be lacking.

This proactive approach places the clearance process firmly in your hands, offering a feasible pathway to getting UPS shipments out of customs more quickly and efficiently.

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Who is Responsible for Customs Clearance with UPS Deliveries?

The customs clearance process for UPS deliveries involves a collaboration between several key parties, each with specific responsibilities to ensure shipments cross borders smoothly:

Original Shipper Responsibility

• Accountable for providing UPS with complete and accurate information required for customs brokerage.
• Must file the correct customs paperwork detailing the contents, values, and parties involved in the shipment.

UPS’s Role as Broker

• Acts as the customs broker, facilitating customs release.
• Heavily relies on the trade compliance data provided by the shipper to perform its role effectively.

Importer’s Responsibility

Required to supply any additional information that may be requested to clear the packages addressed to them.

Customs Authorities

• Review the provided documentation.
• Clear compliant shipments to enter the destination country, ensuring they meet all regulatory requirements.

Key Takeaways on UPS “Clearance Information Required” Tracking Notices

• Stakeholder information sharing speeds up shipment releases.
• Collaboration resolves import issues quickly.
• “Clearance Information Required” indicates missing customs data.
• Common issues: incorrect paperwork, missing details, unknown recipient.
• Shippers must provide all necessary information for customs clearance.
• Clearance delays range from 1 to 10+ days, depending on issue complexity.
• A “Clearance Information Required” notice doesn’t mean a package will be inspected.
• Stay patient and communicate with UPS for swift shipment release.
• Knowing common clearance issues helps shippers prevent delays.

Next Read: Shipment Ready for UPS

Conclusion

Clear and complete documentation is crucial for hassle-free customs clearance with UPS. Shippers and recipients both play significant roles in providing accurate information and taking proactive measures to avoid clearance delays.

Collaboration with UPS as the customs broker is essential for a swift resolution.

Understanding the process simplifies international shipments and ensures a seamless global trade experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How can I speed up customs clearance?

Global Entry is a program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) designed to provide expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon their arrival in the United States.

Q2. Can I clear customs yourself?

You are not legally required to employ a Customs Broker to clear your goods. Nonetheless, many importers choose to hire one for the added convenience.

Q3. Do I get my luggage before going through customs?

Upon clearing immigration, head to the baggage reclaim area to collect your luggage.

If you are arriving on an international flight and connecting to a destination within the U.S., ensure you claim your baggage prior to proceeding through U.S. Customs.

Q4. What happens if you don’t clear customs?

Two common outcomes can occur: If the goods in the cargo are legal, they may be seized by customs and then auctioned off to cover the associated charges.

Alternatively, the cargo custodian might resell the goods to compensate for the fees incurred.