GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026

customs clearance

Customs clearance authorizes the lawful movement of goods across a customs border.

Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.wcoomd.org

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Logistics Concept

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Customs clearance authorizes the lawful movement of goods across a customs border. The importer or exporter—typically through an appointed customs broker or freight forwarder—declares the cargo to the competent authority, submits the required documents (commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and others), and pays applicable duties, import VAT, and any additional levies. Only once clearance is granted may the goods proceed into or out of the customs territory. The process serves three simultaneous purposes for the state: revenue collection, enforcement of safety and trade regulations, and statistical recording of trade flows. Importers regularly engage a licensed customs broker because tariff classification, rules of origin, and import permits vary considerably depending on the product and country of origin.

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Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

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customs clearance

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