Dealing with Canada Customs Delays? Take These Steps

Have you experienced late package delivery or a change in your expected shipment date? That could be a result of a Canada customs delay. However, what can you do when this happens?

This guide will provide easy steps to follow if customs holds your shipment.

Key Takeaways

• Customs delays can occur due to incomplete documentation, shipment of prohibited goods, or shipping during peak seasons.
  
  
• Package delays in customs can last up to two (2) weeks, depending on the severity of the issue. In contrast, regular shipments without problems are typically processed within one (1) to three (3) days.
  
  
• Canadian customs store unclaimed packages for 40 days and perishable goods for four (4) days. After this period, if the package remains unclaimed, customs can dispose of it.
  
  
• If customs authorities hold your item, ensure you submit their additional requirements and ask your customs broker or shipping partner for assistance.
  

Why Does Canada Customs Delay My Packages

There are common reasons why the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) might delay your package, and some of these are:

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

The CBSA requires detailed documentation for all international mail packages entering the country. Some of the paperwork includes the following:

• CBSA Postal Import Form. This is also known as the product declaration form. It includes the item description, value, and origin country. Note that you must submit this every time you send a package to Canada.
  
  
• Commercial Invoice/Product Receipt. By providing this, you can ensure your submitted item value is accurate.
  
  
• Certificate of Origin (CO). Sometimes, CBSA may ask for your product's CO to confirm the applicable duties and taxes. This applies mostly to goods from the US and Mexico, as Canada has international shipping agreements with these countries.
  

Any incorrect or missing documentation can result in further inspection. In the worst-case scenario, you may also incur higher additional customs fees as a penalty.

Prohibited or Restricted Goods

Another common reason for delays is the shipment of prohibited or restricted goods. Many people may think these terms are the same, but they have significant differences.

The restricted items:

• Require Special Permits. The CBSA requires special permits for these items. However, even with these permits, customs clearance is not guaranteed.
  
  
• Stricter Inspection. Customs inspects these goods more closely than regular items. This includes certain plants and medications based on Health Canada rules.
  

While the prohibited items are:

• Strictly Banned. These items are illegal and cannot enter Canada under any circumstances. Examples include illicit drugs, certain weapons, and counterfeit goods.
  
  
• No Exceptions. If you try to bring these items into Canada, customs will seize them immediately. No documents or permits can change this.
  

By understanding these distinctions, you can avoid customs delays and potential legal issues.

Peak Shipping Seasons

Shipping timing is important for preventing delays at customs. During busy seasons, like Canadian holidays or major shopping days, shipments increase greatly. This surge can overwhelm customs facilities, resulting in longer processing times.

Additionally, be mindful of holidays and events in the country where your package comes from, as their customs process also affects your shipments. This is why it's better to shop early for holiday gifts to avoid delays during peak customs seasons.

How Long Does Canada Customs Keep Parcels

The 40-day duration customs keeps a package varies for multiple reasons mentioned earlier. The length of time depends on the package's specific issues, but generally, here is the usual timeframe a package stays with the CBSA:

Remember that these timeframes may change at any time, so it's best to check the status of your package with your shipping partner. Additionally, consider the customs processing days when sending items to Canada.

What Happens to Unclaimed Packages

If a package clears customs but remains unclaimed for 40 days, the CBSA has the authority to dispose of it. Additionally, remember that the storage period varies by product type.

For example, regular items typically have a 40-day storage period. In comparison, perishable goods, such as food, have a shorter storage time of only four (4) calendar days.

What to Do If CBSA Holds My Shipment

After learning that CBSA is holding your package and causing the delay, here are the steps you can take:

Follow And Submit The CBSA's Additional Requests

The CBSA may request additional documentation to verify your package’s declaration. When this happens, prepare to submit any required documents. As noted earlier, ensure that all the papers you provide are accurate.

Additionally, remember that responding promptly can help avoid further delays, allowing your package to return to the review process more quickly.

Hire A Professional Customs Broker

Hiring a professional customs broker can simplify the process. These experts understand customs regulations and can help resolve any issues promptly.

Additionally, they handle documentation, duty and tax payments, and communicate with CBSA authorities to ensure your package meets customs requirements. So, with their help, you can save time and reduce stress when facing delays.

Ask for Assistance with Your Shipping Carrier

Aside from hiring a customs broker to help, you might also ask for assistance from your shipping solution. They can offer guidance on the steps you need to take and help you cooperate with the customs officers.

Before choosing a shipping partner, check if their services include customs handling. This way, you may not need to hire a customs broker. A shipping solution that manages your shipment and customs clearance can streamline the process.

Ensure A Smooth Customs Clearance with Shippsy

If you’re looking for an efficient but affordable shipping solution, consider Shippsy. We offer the lowest handling fees for cross-border shipments and expertly manage your package’s customs clearance.

Additionally, we are a package forwarding service with a US facility that receives your packages. This means you can shop from any online store in the US, even if they don’t ship to Canada.

Plus, you can pick up your package at the nearest Shippsy branch from your location or let our shipping partner, Canada Post, deliver it to you. So, the convenience is on you to decide!

Final Thoughts

Delays with packages entering Canada can be frustrating, but you can avoid them by understanding their possible causes. Most importantly, a reliable shipping service like Shippsy can help ensure you have a hassle-free international shipping experience.

Aman Chopra

Aman looks after the content marketing department at Stallion Express. He is passionate about helping businesses grow by providing informative and up-to-date trends in the eCommerce industry. Outside the office, you can find him on the soccer field cheering on Real Madrid.

Read all posts written by  Aman Chopra

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