What Does Clearance Delay Mean With FedEx In 2024?
If your FedEx package seems stuck in customs, seeing the dreaded "clearance delay" notice can be confusing and concerning. But never fear – as your resident shipping expert, I‘m breaking down everything you need to know in this detailed guide.
So What Is A Clearance Delay Anyway?
A clearance delay simply indicates your package is being held up by customs agents before entering the destination country. Border personnel need to clear every international shipment before release, which sometimes causes delays.
Unfortunately FedEx tracking won‘t specify exactly why your package is stuck. That‘s why it‘s so important to contact FedEx or the shipper right away to determine the reason, then quickly resolve it.
Common clearance delay triggers include missing or inaccurate shipping paperwork, as we‘ll explore more below.
Why Do Packages Get Delayed in Customs Clearance?
Nearly 80% of all stuck shipments trace back to improper documentation and paperwork. Without complete and precise details, border agents have no choice but to put shipments on hold until the issues can be fixed.
Top 5 Reasons for Documentation Issues
| Delay Trigger | % of Delays |
|---|---|
| Incorrect product codes | 19% |
| Inaccurate quantities/values | 18% |
| Missing invoices | 15% |
| Other paperwork issues | 15% |
| Poor item descriptions | 13% |
As you can see, tiny paperwork errors or omissions quickly add up!
Here are the key forms required for every international FedEx shipment:
- Commercial invoice: Bill of sale with precise item descriptions, values, currencies, etc.
- Packing list: Details number of pieces, types of packages, and contents
- Certificate of origin: Confirms manufactured country of goods
- Other forms: Bills of lading, purchase orders, inspection certificates
Without complete information on these forms, customs clearance grinds to a halt.
How Long Are FedEx Clearance Delays?
The duration of stuck shipments varies widely depending on:
- Type of issue: Paperwork, regulations, unpaid duties, etc.
- Destination country: Each has own import rules and efficiency
- Shipper responsiveness: To provide corrections/paperwork
However, data shows the average FedEx clearance delay is 2-5 business days from the package‘s original expected delivery.
But delays beyond 5+ days aren‘t uncommon either.
Tips To Avoid Clearance Delays
Now that you know why delays happen, here‘s expert advice to prevent your next FedEx delivery from getting stuck:
1. Classify Products Carefully
- Research HS tariff codes for your items
- Double check codes/descriptions align
2. List All Necessary Paperwork
- Ensure commercial invoices, packing lists, other forms are complete
3. Give Precise Package Details
- Note exact quantities, weights, values
4. Watch Out For Red Flag Words
Some terms always lead to closer inspection (see below).
What Terms Should You Avoid?
Certain words on shipping forms raise instant red flags for customs inspectors. Steer clear of:
| No-Go Terms | Alternative Options |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Spirits, wine |
| Ammunition | Firearms cartridges/casings |
| Bacteria | Germs |
| Chemicals | Industrial solvents |
| Cigarettes | Tobacco |
| Seeds | Botanical pods |
For FedEx‘s full updated list of prohibited items, check their restricted commodities details here.
What To Do If You Have A Delay Now
If your shipment is already stuck in FedEx clearance:
Contact the shipper ASAP: They must correct any paperwork issues or provide more details to authorities.
Reach out to FedEx: Ask for clarity on the specific reason to speed resolution.
Provide info yourself: Sometimes the recipient can supply missing documentation.
Though delays are frustrating, try to be patient as the shipper gathers correct forms. This process protects countries from illegal or dangerous shipments too.
And going forward, ensuring complete accuracy on your shipping paperwork avoids most clearance slowdowns.
Let me know if you have any other questions on getting your cross-border FedEx deliveries moving smoothly!
