If you’ve ever shipped products internationally, you may have seen the status “Send Item to Customs (INB)” during tracking updates. This indicates that your package has reached the destination country’s customs department and is awaiting clearance. Understanding this step is crucial for eCommerce sellers, as it can affect delivery times, potential taxes, and the overall customer experience. In this guide, we’ll explain what it means, how it works, and what you need to know to ensure a smooth process when sending items through customs.
Decoding “Send Item to Customs (INB)” in Shipping Terms
Have you ever tracked an international shipment and noticed the status “Send Item to Customs (INB)”? Wondering what this means for your package? Let’s break it down.
When a package is marked with this status, it means your shipment has been handed over to the destination country’s customs department for clearance. The “INB” part stands for “Inward Bound.” This simply tells you that your package has arrived in the country and is now moving inward, ready to be cleared by customs.
At this point, customs officials will check your package to ensure it follows all the country’s rules and regulations. They will also determine if any duties or taxes must be paid before the package can continue its journey to your customers. This is a standard process for any international shipment.
So, in simple terms, “Send Item to Customs (INB)” is just a way of telling you that your package is with customs, and once it’s cleared, It will be in route to the next phase of the delivery procedure. There’s nothing to worry about; it’s just a routine part of shipping!
Expected Delivery Timeline After a “Send Item to Customs (INB)” Notification
Once you receive the “Send Item to Customs (INB)” notification, it’s difficult to predict exactly when your package will be delivered. This notification doesn’t mean that customs officers are physically handling your package at that moment. Instead, it indicates that your item has been added to a warehouse or International Service Center (ISC) queue, awaiting inspection.
If the volume of packages is low and there are no backlogs, customs clearance could be quick—sometimes within a few hours or a day. However, several factors can slow down this process. For instance, high traffic at busy ISCs like New York or Chicago might result in delays, and in some cases, customs clearance could take several days or even more than a week.
There are various reasons why delays might happen. These can include a backlog of packages, staffing shortage, or specific issues with the contents of the package that require further inspection. While these delays can be frustrating, they are often unavoidable due to the nature of international shipping and customs processing.
Steps to Take if Your Tracking Stalls at “Send Item to Customs (INB)”
Sometimes, the status might remain the same for a few days as the package is in the queue for routine customs clearance. Most packages clear customs within a few days. Delays of up to a week are common, especially if there is a high volume of shipments during busy periods. Patience is essential at this stage.
If your tracking status shows “Send Item to Customs (INB)” for an extended period, it can be frustrating, especially when you’re unsure of what’s causing the delay. Customs clearance is essential to international shipping, and delays can happen for several reasons. Here’s what you can do to handle the situation smoothly:
Check for Missing Documents
One of the most common reasons for customs delays is missing or incomplete paperwork. Customs authorities often require detailed information about the package’s contents, value, and origin to process it correctly. Ensure all necessary shipping documents, such as invoices, commercial receipts, and customs forms, are accurately completed and submitted. Double-check with your logistics partner to confirm that all required documents were correctly provided. Missing information can cause significant delays, so thorough documentation is crucial to avoid unnecessary holdups.
Contact Your Shipping Provider
If the tracking status has not been updated for over a week, it’s a good idea to reach out to your shipping provider or courier service. They can offer detailed information about the delay and may be able to address any issues with customs. Prompt action is important, especially if the package is held due to missing information or unpaid fees. Your shipping provider can help clarify the situation and guide you on the next steps to resolve the delay effectively.
Pay Any Duties or Taxes
Customs may require duties or taxes to be paid before processing your shipment further. If these fees are due, they will remain stalled until dues are settled. The recipient might receive a notification to pay these charges. You must inform your buyer in advance that such fees may apply. This proactive communication helps prevent confusion and ensures that the package can continue its journey without unnecessary delays.
Reach Out to the Customs Department
In rare instances, delays may persist even after you’ve contacted the shipping provider. If your package remains stalled, consider contacting the customs office directly for an update. You might need to provide your tracking number, invoice, and other shipment details to get a clearer picture of your shipment’s status. Engaging with customs directly can help you understand any underlying issues and expedite the resolution process.
Consider Professional Help for Stalled Shipments
If you’ve tried the previous steps and your shipment is still stuck, it might be time to consult a customs broker or agent. These professionals specialize in navigating complex customs regulations and can help resolve any issues that are causing delays. Their expertise can be invaluable in ensuring that your package clears customs as quickly as possible, avoiding prolonged disruptions.
Keep the Buyer Updated
Maintaining open communication with your buyer is crucial during any customs-related delays. As a seller, it’s important to keep them informed about the status of their shipment and the steps you’re taking to resolve the issue. Providing regular updates and explaining the situation transparently helps build trust and ensures a positive customer experience, even in the face of delays.
Shiprocket X: Simplify Your Customs and Shipping Experience
With ShiprocketX, you can quickly expand your business globally. You can ship to over 220 countries and territories, including major markets like the USA, UK, Australia, and more. You can also enjoy transparent customs clearance without the hassle of paperwork and get real-time updates via email and WhatsApp to keep your customers informed. Plus, an analytics dashboard lets you track your shipping performance and make better business decisions.
You can also build stronger relationships with your customers through customisable tracking pages where you can showcase your logo, recommend products, and collect feedback. You can integrate ShiprocketX with global marketplaces and manage all your orders with just a click, allowing you to focus on growing your business while the logistics are taken care of.
Conclusion
Navigating customs is an essential part of international eCommerce. When you send items to customs (INB), it’s necessary to understand the process to avoid delays, unexpected fees, or shipment issues. By ensuring that all the required documents are in place, understanding the regulations of the destination country, and preparing your shipments properly, you can streamline the customs process and provide a smoother experience for your customers. Being prepared will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your products reach their destination without unnecessary complications.
