# Customs clearance

*Last updated: 2026-06-23*

> Customs clearance begins the moment a shipment crosses a customs border or enters a customs territory.

Customs clearance begins the moment a shipment crosses a customs border or enters a customs territory. The responsible authority reviews the submitted trade documents – commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin – alongside the customs declaration, checking for completeness and accuracy before assessing and collecting any applicable import duties and taxes. Depending on the commodity type and the importer's risk profile, a physical inspection may be ordered. Only once clearance is granted does customs issue a release, which is the prerequisite for forwarding goods or placing them into free circulation. Customs clearance should not be confused with the customs declaration itself: the declaration is just one step within the broader clearance procedure.

**Source:** [https://www.wcoomd.org](https://www.wcoomd.org)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs clearance |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 113 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-23 |
| Source | https://www.wcoomd.org |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/customs-clearance-6](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/customs-clearance-6)*

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