Shipment stuck at customs?
Don’t panic. In two taps you’ll know what the message means and what to do in the next hour — or let a licensed customs broker take over.
Step 1 of 2
How is it being shipped?
General guidance, not legal advice. Your carrier’s notice and the CBSA have the final word.
Customs rules change — confirm with the official sources on this page or with a licensed customs broker before you ship.
Guides by carrier
Held shipments: common questions
Why is my shipment held at customs?
The usual reasons: the invoice is missing or unclear (description, value, origin), duties and taxes are owing, another department such as the CFIA or Health Canada has to approve the goods, or the CBSA picked the shipment for an exam, which is often random.
How long can customs hold a shipment?
It depends on the reason. A missing document is often sorted out soon after you send it; an exam usually adds a few days; a permit from another department can take longer. Freight left at a warehouse may start costing storage fees, so act quickly.
Is a text asking me to pay customs fees real?
Be careful: fake “customs fee” texts are common. Pay only through the carrier’s official website or app, which you open yourself, using your tracking number.
Can a customs broker help with a single held shipment?
Yes. Many brokers clear one-off shipments. They’ll need the carrier’s notice and your invoice, and fees vary. Ask for a free quote.