GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Customs release procedure
A shipment sits at the terminal, documents submitted – and only once the customs release procedure is complete may the freight forwarder collect and forward the goods.
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A shipment sits at the terminal, documents submitted – and only once the customs release procedure is complete may the freight forwarder collect and forward the goods. The customs release procedure is the official process by which a competent customs authority verifies a consignment documentarily, physically inspects it where warranted, and authorises it for import, export, or transit. Key control points are tariff classification, declared customs value, country of origin, and accurate calculation of applicable duties and taxes. Importers and forwarders must present the commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and any shipment-specific licences before clearance is granted. Routine consignments are often cleared within hours; high-risk or incorrectly declared shipments can trigger multi-day examinations. Goods may not leave the customs area until release is formally issued.
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