In the last few months, TGI Cargo has seen a marked increase in US customs doing random inspections on sea and air cargo to Australia. There has been no formal announcement or given reason for this but it is suspected it is linked to a crackdown on narcotics moving between Mexico, the US and Australia. What this means for our customers is you need to allow for potentially an additional 3-4 weeks in delays in your planning. 

The United States, China, Russia and India are known to have stricter customs regulations and enforcement procedures. Customs delays on cargo delivery can vary widely depending on several factors such as the complexity of the customs requirements, the volume of cargo being processed, and the level of compliance of the importer/exporter. In general, however, delays can range from a few hours to several days or even weeks, depending on the specifics of the situation.

To minimise any further impact on getting goods through the US, here are some customs regulations considerations:

• Classification of goods: It is important to classify the goods being imported or exported according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to determine the applicable customs duty rates and other regulatory requirements.
• Documentation: Accurate and complete documentation is essential for a smooth customs clearance process. This may include invoices, bills of lading, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
• Prohibited and restricted items: The US has strict regulations on certain items such as drugs, weapons, and counterfeit goods. It is important to be aware of these restrictions to avoid penalties or legal issues.
• Compliance with regulations: Compliance with US customs regulations is essential to avoid fines or other penalties. This includes ensuring that all required licenses and permits are obtained and regulations regarding labelling, packaging and marking are followed.
• Security requirements: The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has implemented various security requirements for cargo entering the country. Compliance with these requirements can help avoid delays and other issues.

To minimise delays, it is important to work closely with customs officials, and ensure all necessary documentation is complete and accurate. Have a thorough understanding of the regulations and requirements of the countries involved.

Additionally, working with experienced freight forwarders, like TGI Cargo and customs brokers can help navigate the complexities of customs regulations and minimize the risk of delays.

Need assistance with your next freighting project, contact TGI Cargo.