The probability of a package being confiscated or seized by the US Customs is between 3% and 5%
Specific reasons include but are not limited to the following:
- Violation of laws and regulations: Most cases of goods being seized by the US Customs and Border Protection involve violations of intellectual property rights, US Federal Communications Commission regulations, UNDP 337 exclusion orders, UL certification, etc.
- Goods purchased by the same recipient through different channels and delivered to the United States on the same day with a total value of more than US$800 will face strict scrutiny and are at risk of seizure
- Goods types and values: US Customs has different standards and regulations for different categories of goods. For example, clothing is a non-restricted item, but if the competent authorities believe that it may endanger public safety, health or animal and plant health, strict inspections and measures will be carried out.
- a large gap between the declared value and the actual value will also arouse suspicion.
- Incomplete documents and missing certifications: Lack of documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin will lead to customs clearance difficulties.
- Certain goods require specific certifications, such as FCC certification for electronic products and FDA certification for food.
In order to reduce the risk of being seized, the following measures can be taken:
- Provide complete documents and data: including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, etc. to simplify the customs inspection process.
- Understand and comply with relevant laws and regulations: avoid violations of intellectual property rights, regulations of the Communications Commission, etc.
- Reasonable declared value: ensure that the declared value is consistent with the actual value to avoid suspicion of tax evasion due to value discrepancies.
- Obtain necessary certifications: For goods that require specific certifications, obtain relevant certifications in advance.
