# Import Customs Clearance Process

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> A shipment reaches the customs frontier and the import customs clearance process begins immediately: the importer or appointed customs broker submits an electronic declaration and provides the required supporting documents – commercial invoice, transport document, certificate of origin, and any applicable licences or import permits.

A shipment reaches the customs frontier and the import customs clearance process begins immediately: the importer or appointed customs broker submits an electronic declaration and provides the required supporting documents – commercial invoice, transport document, certificate of origin, and any applicable licences or import permits. Customs officers classify the goods under the relevant tariff heading, establish the customs value, and calculate the duties due, including import tariff, import VAT, and any trade defence measures such as anti-dumping duties. The consignee cannot take delivery until those charges are paid or a security is lodged. Every step is logged in the national customs system and retained for audit purposes. This process is distinct from the Import Control System (ICS), which handles pre-arrival safety and security notifications and precedes the actual clearance procedure.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Customs_clearance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Customs_clearance)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Import Customs Clearance Process |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 130 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Customs_clearance |

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