GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Import Release

Import release is the customs authority's formal decision to discharge imported goods from customs control, permitting their entry into free circulation or transfer into a subsequently declared customs procedure.

Quick Answer

Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.flexport.com/blog/import-release-process

Category

Logistics Concept

Reading time

1 min

Words

130

Mentioned in

–

Definition & Explanation

Import release is the customs authority's formal decision to discharge imported goods from customs control, permitting their entry into free circulation or transfer into a subsequently declared customs procedure. It presupposes completed clearance: the submission of the import declaration, verification of the goods description and tariff classification, payment of applicable duties and taxes, and—where required—production of import licences or permits. Only once import release is granted may the consignee or their customs broker take physical possession of the goods. In modern electronic customs systems, release is typically issued as an automated status notification; however, consignments flagged for physical examination may face delays before release is confirmed. Import release should be distinguished from the terminal delivery order or warehouse release note, which is a separate document issued by the cargo custodian.

Next steps

Matching tools and partners

Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Find a matching partnerFreight forwarders and logistics partners worldwideOpen

Related Terms

You might also be interested in these terms

e-dec Import Deactivation

The e-dec import deactivation refers to the planned end of electronic import customs declarations via the legacy e-dec Import syst…

Automated Import Notification

An automated import notification is the electronic declaration of imported goods that freight forwarders and importers transmit to…

Passar 2.0 import

Passar 2.0 (import) is the expansion stage of the Swiss goods traffic system Passar (BAZG) covering the import domain and replacin…

Import Administration

Efficient inbound goods flows depend on end-to-end control of every administrative and regulatory step – which is precisely what i…

Import Certificate

Customs authorities and designated control bodies issue an import certificate to confirm, for a specific consignment, that the goo…

Import Restrictions

An import restriction is a government measure that determines whether and under what conditions specific goods may enter a country…

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Free · No password · Never a paywall. Weekly top news and facts from logistics.

Community Questions & Answers

Share your knowledge, ask follow-up questions, or add practical insights to this page. Every contribution is moderated before publication.

No community answers yet. Be the first.