What Happens During the Customs Clearance Process Underway in the USA and Switzerland?
If you see “customs clearance process underway” on your package tracking, it means your shipment is being reviewed by border authorities before being released for delivery. This status is common in both the USA and Switzerland, and for most shipments, it only lasts one to two business days. However, delays can happen if any paperwork is missing or duties need clarification. Let’s break down exactly what this process involves and answer the most common questions about customs in these countries.
How Does the Customs Clearance Process Work in the USA?
When your shipment arrives at a US border, a licensed customs broker submits the necessary entry documents. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will then review all paperwork, check the value of items, and ensure taxes and duties are paid as required. You do not need to do anything unless contacted for additional information.
According to detailed guidance on the stages of US customs, your shipment moves through these status messages: “Import Customs Clearance Started” (document review begins), “Customs Clearance In Progress” (CBP examines details and may contact your broker), and finally “Customs Clearance Complete” or “Released” when the goods are cleared. Most shipments clear in a few hours or within two business days. Learn more about these status messages and their meaning by consulting this comprehensive explanation of the US customs clearance process.
If there are problems—such as missing or inconsistent information—CBP may delay your delivery until issues are resolved. No further steps are needed from the recipient unless explicitly requested by your broker or carrier.
What Is the Customs Clearance Process Like in Switzerland?
For shipments to Switzerland, customs procedures are very similar but tailored to local regulations. Swiss customs authorities review all imported items, calculate applicable duties and VAT, and may inspect parcels at random. Required documents usually include invoices, packing lists, and proper labeling.
Swiss Post acts as the main handler for many incoming parcels. If extra taxes or import fees apply, Swiss Post often bills the recipient directly before delivering the package. The process typically takes one to three business days unless there are questions about your shipment’s declared value or compliance with restricted goods rules.
Most packages move smoothly, but customs might contact the sender for clarification or additional paperwork if they spot inconsistencies. For complex shipments—such as controlled technology—Swiss customs may require special licenses. For more about the steps, see Easyship’s guide on how customs clearance works internationally.
How Long Does Delivery Take After Customs Clearance?
Once a package is cleared by customs, delivery is usually quick. In the USA, shipments are released to the final carrier (like USPS, FedEx, or UPS) and often delivered within one to three business days. In Switzerland, delivery typically occurs the next business day after Swiss Post receives cleared parcels.
If customs finds everything in order, there are no extra steps for you after clearance. However, if you owe import duties or additional fees, you must pay them promptly to avoid further delays. If your shipment has been listed as “cleared” for several days with no delivery, contact your carrier for a status update.
Remember, rare exceptions—such as random inspections or holidays—can sometimes add extra time before the package reaches your door.
Where Does the Customs Clearance Happen in the USA?
Customs clearance in the USA takes place at the port of entry, which could be an airport, seaport, or land border crossing. Larger cities and major entry points—like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago—have dedicated CBP processing centers equipped to handle thousands of daily shipments.
The initial status update usually appears in your tracking once the package arrives in the country and is handed over to customs officers. After successful evaluation, the package is released for domestic delivery.
If a package is selected for inspection or if there are any irregularities in your customs paperwork, it may be held at the clearance facility for a more detailed review. You can track your item’s journey by checking updates from your carrier, with common processing spots being international mail facilities or major import hubs.
Why Do Some Shipments Experience Customs Delays?
Most shipments clear customs without any intervention from the recipient, but certain situations can cause holdups. Delays commonly result from missing or incorrect paperwork, unpaid taxes or duties, or questionable package declarations. Parcels containing technology, electronics, or items classed as high value are sometimes subject to detailed checks or may require a special import license.
According to experts, even after submitting everything correctly, border authorities may perform random inspections to prevent illegal imports or enforce trade rules. Shipments may also linger at customs longer during peak shipping seasons or when additional information is needed.
If your package is delayed, the best course of action is to promptly respond to any requests from your carrier or customs broker. For more information about what “customs cleared” really means and how to move forward with delivery, explore the distinction between customs clearance and customs cleared in international shipping.
Ultimately, providing thorough and accurate shipment details from the start is the simplest way to ensure customs processing goes smoothly and your goods arrive as expected.
