SOS: What should I do if my package gets held up in customs?

One of the things we fear most when we place orders in online stores is the message that our package has been held up in customs. As consumers, we should be aware of this, since through lack of knowledge, we can end up with extra costs or very long delivery times. Let's clear up all the doubts.

How should I deal with a package held up in customs?

What is the first thing we should do? Check, using the tracking number or delivery note they have sent us, that the package is being held up in customs. If you verify that this is the case, you will receive an international shipment postal notice, with the DUA request, where you will see instructions on how to proceed to release the package.

Along with the above, the courier company will send a letter called “Notice of arrival of postal shipment from the Canary Islands, Ceuta, Melilla or international origin subject to customs procedures”, within approximately a week. In this case, you will have to fill in all the details requested within 15 days from when your order arrived at customs. If you do not do so in time, it will be returned to its origin.

How can you locate a package in customs?

The easiest way to know if the package is being held is checking the tracking number or delivery note you have received, since the status is usually updated almost immediately or with a few hours' delay.

How long can a package be held up in customs?

The answer to this is a big it depends. From the moment it arrives at customs, the process mentioned above begins, through which they send you several documents. At a minimum, they are usually held for about 15 days, although if you fill everything out correctly, perhaps it can be resolved in a week.

The value of the package also affects how long it is held, since those worth less than €20 are not inspected, while those exceeding that value are more likely to be held in customs.

How much do you pay for a package held in customs?

The most common thing is that, for packages in customs, VAT must be paid (the percentage will depend on the type of product), as well as an amount ranging between 15 and 17%. It should be taken into account that this amount will apply to packages with a value greater than €22, only if the countries involved are in the European Union.

What happens if I do not collect a package in customs?

In the event that a package arrives at customs and you do not claim it, it is usually returned to its origin in about 20 days. If this happens, you will not be able to recover it, unless you have previously agreed otherwise with the sender.

Keep in mind that you may incur additional costs, for storage or return to sender. You may even receive penalties or fines if you do not claim the held package, depending on its contents and local laws.