Customs Clearance Cost, Time & Delays

It's a question we get asked a lot by our customers. And the honest answer is that there is no one answer, not all shipments are the same, as a result the cost of your customs clearance charge will vary also. This varies on a number of factors, such as were your goods are coming from and how complex the paperwork is.

For example if you have a container with different product types (commodity codes), dangerous goods, or specific health and licensing requirements may need a bit more paperwork; which in turn can affect the price. Also if your using someone else customs deferment account or shipment needs are more urgent this can increase the Customs clearance cost sightly. Brunswick International, has always ensured that our customers pay as low as possible when transporting their goods with us. To enquire about the rates that Brunswick International can offer you don't hesitate to get in touch today. One factor that determines cost is the time it takes for your freight to clear customs. This has many variables from the mode of transport used, to the Port of Entry, types of goods being transported and how accurate your paperwork is.

Air Freight Imports:

• Timeframe: 24 to 48 from time cargo is available at the Airport.

• Fastest Route: If documents are pre-submitted and everything is in order, some clearances can happen with a few hours.

• Common causes of delays can include, incorrect HS Codes, missing information of invoices, use of incorrect consignee EORI, or airline handling delays.

It is critical that you ensure that you send us the airway bill, commercial invoice and packing list and clearance instructions ahead of the flight arriving to avoid last minute issues.

Sea Freight Import:

• FCL (Full Container Load): Around 2-3 working days after vessel arrival.

• LCL (Less than Container Load): Typically 3-5 working, as cargo must be first be de-grouped at a warehouse before clearance.

• Delays can also occur due to Port congestion, incomplete paperwork, or goods selected for customs or Port health inspections.

Again, ensure that the bill of lading, commercial invoice and packing list are sent in advance to avoid any issues, LCL shipments almost always take longer than FCL, so always allow some extra time for planning.

Road Freight (EU-UK / UK-EU):

• Timeframe: Often same day if paperwork complete and the truck is pre-lodged, but can be 1-2 days if documents are submitted post arrival or issues arise.

• Be mindful of Border delays issues arising with T1, goods needing GVMS pre-lodge or customs requests for checks.

  
  

Important: Have your MRN, TAD and accompanying paperwork pre-lodged before your vehicle departs to keep them moving and on schedule

What can delay Customs Clearance:

Delays usually happen due to a number of factors including:

• Documents are missing or are incorrect (e.g. commercial invoice, packing list, HS codes)

• A physical inspection or Port Health check is required.

• The importer doesn't have a valid EORI number or deferment approvals.

• Goods are mis-declared or need additional licenses (e.g. food, chemicals, DG)

How to make it quicker with Brunswick International

At Brunswick International, we ensure that our customers have a fast reliable service always. We achieve this through a combination of our industry leading technology, expert staff and quality infrastructure. We pre-check you documentation to ensure it is all within standards, ensuring we can flag any issues with you early, We work closely with HMRC, Port Authorities & Handling Agents to ensure urgent shipments have priority. If delays do occur (and sometimes they do) we keep you informed at all times throughout your goods transportation. By working with Brunswick International you ensure your goods are always delivered on time and safe anywhere in the world. Get in touch today to start growing your business.