What Does Import Scan Mean at UPS In 2022? (Full Guide)
Shipping packages internationally introduces new tracking updates that many senders find confusing. One of these is the “import scan.” According to UPS, over 2.5 million packages are shipped daily to 220+ countries and territories. With volumes this high, it‘s essential to understand tracking updates like import scans. This article will explain what an import scan means, how it differs from other scans, and what to expect after it occurs.
A Detailed Overview of the Import Scan Process
An import scan indicates that an international package has cleared customs and officially entered the destination country.
For a package to receive an import scan, it must pass through customs clearance and meet the destination country’s import requirements. This process typically involves:
- Submitting proper customs paperwork (commercial invoices, certificates of origin, etc.)
- Having contents that are approved for import
- Paying any applicable duties, taxes, or customs fees
For example, when shipping to Canada, you need to provide a commercial invoice and may need an Export Declaration. Appliances and telecommunications equipment also require special paperwork.
Once a shipment meets all regulations, it receives an import scan denoting it has entered the country. This scan can only happen once per package per country.
Arrival Scans vs. Import Scans
Import scans differ from arrival scans in a few key ways:
| Scan Type | Indicates | Frequency | Possession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrival | Package reached UPS facility | Multiple per package | UPS has package |
| Import | Cleared customs and entered country | One per country | Unclear who has package |
Arrival scans occur when a package reaches and is unloaded at a UPS facility. This could happen at multiple sorts facilities before final delivery.
Import scans imply similar information but refer specifically to the customs process. They don‘t specify who possesses the package after clearing customs.
What Happens After Your Package Gets an Import Scan?
Once legally cleared to enter the destination country, there are several possibilities for the next scan after “import scan”:
- Arrival scan at a UPS facility
- In transit scan as it moves between UPS locations
- Transferred to local post office or delivery provider
- Out for delivery scan
- Delivered scan
For example, a package from Japan to Canada may go through customs, get an import scan, arrive at a UPS hub for sorting, get in transit scans during sorting, get transferred to Canada Post for last mile delivery, and finally be marked delivered.
However, issues can delay delivery even after clearing customs:
- Incorrect address – Package returned to sender
- Lost or damaged label – Package held until addressee verified
- Weather or other delays – Package held safely until conditions improve
According to UPS, it’s rare for a package to be returned to the sender after receiving an import scan. This scan means it already cleared customs, so any return issues likely involve addresses or labels rather than prohibited contents.
The Import Scan: Vital for International Tracking
For over 2.5 million daily international packages, accurate tracking is essential. The import scan provides critical visibility into the customs process. It signifies the package has entered the destination country and will soon be on its way to the recipient. While arrival scans occur multiple times, the import scan happens just once per country.
Knowing the meaning of this key scan will help you successfully track your vital international shipments. Reach out to UPS with any other questions to keep your packages moving.
