Why is my international shipment delayed in customs?

International shipments may be delayed while customs authorities review or clear the package.

Customs processing is handled by the destination country, and clearance times depend on the shipment details, documentation, and local import requirements.

Why is my package stuck in customs?

Common reasons include:

Additional customs inspections
Missing or incomplete customs documents
Unpaid duties, taxes, or import fees
Missing recipient, importer, or tax identification information
Country-specific import restrictions or requirements
High shipment volume or local customs processing delays

What should I do if my package is held in customs?

Check your tracking link for the latest shipment status.
Review any notices from the carrier or customs authorities.
Provide requested information promptly, such as identification, tax details, customs documents, or payment of duties and taxes.
Allow additional time for customs clearance and processing.

If the required information isn't provided, the shipment may remain on hold. In some cases, it may be returned to the sender, abandoned, or disposed of under carrier or customs regulations.

Can Gemnote help with customs delays?

Yes. If your international shipment is held in customs, reply in this chat with:

Order number, if available
Company name
Tracking number
Destination country
Any carrier or customs notices you've received

Our team can review the shipment details and help determine the available next steps.

Important: Gemnote cannot control or guarantee customs clearance times. Requirements and processing timelines vary by country, shipment type, and local regulations.

Need to talk to a person? Just type "chat with a human."

Live support is available Monday–Friday, 8am–4pm Pacific. Outside those hours, send your details here anyway — we'll pick it up as soon as we're back online.