Cross-Border Logistics Handbook

Customs Clearance Information

Essential documentation guidance, item descriptions, and duty responsibilities for smooth border crossing.

Important Notice: Rules Vary by Country

Every sovereign nation exercises independent border regulations, import quotas, prohibited lists, and duty thresholds. It is the shipper's and consignee's joint responsibility to ensure compliance with destination country laws.

Please note: Globeline Cargo LLC is not a licensed customs broker. We help you prepare your commercial invoices and export documentation. Customs clearance and duty assessments are conducted by the carrier or an authorized licensed customs broker at the destination border.

1. Mandatory Customs Documents

Every international shipment (excluding personal letters) requires a formal Commercial Invoice (or Proforma Invoice for non-sale goods) securely affixed to the exterior of the package in a clear protective pouch.

Shipper & Consignee Details

Full legal names, physical business addresses, telephone numbers, and tax identification numbers (EORI, EIN, or VAT).

Harmonized Tariff (HS) Codes

Specific 6 to 10-digit tariff code describing the exact material composition and function of each item.

Itemized Description & Value

Accurate piece count, unit value, total commercial value, currency (e.g. USD), and true country of manufacture/origin.

Incoterms (Terms of Sale)

Clarification of who pays freight, insurance, and duties (typically DAP or DDP).

2. Understanding Customs Duties and Taxes

Customs duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) / Goods and Services Tax (GST) are assessed by destination country border authorities based on the CIF value (Cost of goods + Insurance + Freight).

DAP / DDU (Delivered at Place)Standard / Most Common

The recipient (consignee) is responsible for paying all assessed import duties, excise taxes, and local customs processing fees before the package is released for final delivery.

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)Shipper Account

The sender assumes financial responsibility for all destination taxes and clearance fees. The receiver pays nothing upon package arrival.

Customs Statuses on Your Tracking Timeline

When tracking a parcel on Globeline Cargo, you may encounter these verified milestones:

Held by customs: Package temporarily held awaiting inspection, missing documents, or duty settlement.

Duties or taxes payment required: Customs fees have been calculated and are awaiting receiver payment.

Customs cleared: Documentation and duties verified; consignment released for delivery.

Export cleared: Outbound clearance granted by origin authorities; departing for international gateway.

Have Questions About Export Documentation?

Our team in Irvington, NJ can review your commercial invoice prior to dispatch to help you prevent transit holds.