Why do my international packages get stuck in customs? (Checklist for small sellers)

This post outlines common reasons small parcels get delayed at customs and gives you a practical checklist to review. It's not a full explanation of every rule and isn't legal advice.

1. Vague or incomplete descriptions

Customs needs to understand what your product is. Descriptions like "gift" or "sample" don't say much. Clearer descriptions reduce the chance of extra questions.

For example:

• Vague: "gift," "product sample," "accessory"
• Better: "handmade sterling silver earrings," "soy wax candle in glass jar," "resin keychain with metal ring"

2. Missing or inconsistent tariff codes

Some postal shipments move without explicit HS codes, but problems can appear when:

• The code doesn't match the written description
• Different documents or systems use different codes for the same shipment
• The chosen code clearly doesn't fit the type of product

This can lead to reclassification, extra charges, or delays while customs figures out what the product really is.

3. Undervalued shipments

Declaring a very low value to reduce duties/taxes can backfire if it doesn't look realistic. Customs may:

• Hold the package for verification
• Question whether the shipment is a true sale vs. a gift
• Adjust the value and apply higher charges

4. Restricted or sensitive items

Some items require additional paperwork or may not be allowed into certain countries without extra steps. Examples include:

• Food, cosmetics, and products applied to the body
• Certain electronics and batteries
• Items treated as weapons or controlled goods

If an item falls into one of these categories and the shipment doesn't include the necessary documentation, customs can hold it until the situation is resolved.

5. What you can do differently next time

As a small seller, you can't control internal customs processes, but you can make your side cleaner:

• Use clear, specific product descriptions on customs forms
• Choose consistent HS/Schedule B codes for your products
• Declare realistic values that match your actual sales
• Check basic rules for the destination country before you accept orders there

6. How ExportCompass helps with this checklist

ExportCompass is built around the issues that often cause problems:

• HS/Schedule B suggestions from plain-language product descriptions
• Country research snapshots that highlight common issues for certain lanes
• Go-to-market briefs that call out key points customs is likely to care about

It doesn't guarantee a package will never be delayed or inspected, but it helps reduce the chance that your own paperwork is the main reason for a problem.