Customs Clearance Checklist

Print this checklist and review it before every shipment to reduce the chance of a customs hold.

Documents on hand

• Commercial invoice with accurate price, quantity and Incoterm
• Packing list matching the physical cartons/pallets exactly
• Bill of lading or airway bill
• Certificate of origin, if claiming preferential duty
• Any required import license or permit for regulated goods

Consistency check

• Quantities match across invoice, packing list, and transport document
• Declared value matches the transaction value (or correctly reflects your Incoterm)
• Product description is consistent and matches your declared HS code

Before the shipment departs

• Confirmed the correct HS code with the HS Code Finder
• Estimated duty and VAT with the Customs Duty Calculator so there are no surprises
• Engaged a customs broker if the shipment is high-value or the classification is unclear

At clearance

• Declaration submitted before or on arrival
• Duty and VAT payment arranged
• A contact person available in case customs requests clarification

Related reading

• How Does Customs Clearance Work?
• What Is an HS Code?
• Customs Duty Calculator