TrackandTrace.com
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Tracking status

“Held by Customs”: what this tracking status means

Customs authorities are holding the shipment to make sure it meets import or export rules. FedEx says this can be due to missing or incomplete paperwork, waiting for clearance instructions, or authorities needing more information. The item must clear customs before it can be delivered.

What to do

  1. Check the tracking details for a stated reason or required action.
  2. Supply any requested documents (invoice, ID, tax number) quickly.
  3. Pay any duties or taxes requested through the carrier's official channels.
  4. For postal items, contact the customs authority if the post office cannot help; Canada Post says carriers cannot intervene during customs review.

How long it usually takes

For mail entering the US, USPS says U.S. Customs and Border Protection has up to 45 business days to process an item and to notify the recipient if it is seized or detained.

When to contact the sender or carrier

Contact the carrier if it has requested information you have not received, or if the hold goes on far beyond normal clearance times. FedEx says it will contact you if more information is needed.

How carriers word it

Wording on the tracking pageCarrier
“Item held by customs”Canada Post
“In customs”Royal Mail
“Held in Customs”USPS (international)
“Delivery exception (customs delay)”FedEx

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