What to do
- Wait; this is normal for every international parcel.
- Respond promptly if the carrier asks for documents or information.
- Prepare to pay any duties or taxes requested.
- For DHL shipments, you can check clearance status with the local customs clearance agent.
When to contact the sender or carrier
Canada Post says clearance times vary with the package, its documents and customs volume, and neither postal operator can intervene during review. Contact the carrier if it asks for information or the item is stuck far beyond normal transit times.
How carriers word it
| Wording on the tracking page | Carrier |
|---|---|
| “Clearance Event” | DHL Express |
| “Processed For Clearance” | DHL Express |
| “In customs” | Royal Mail |
| “Item held by customs” | Canada Post |
| “Customs clearance procedures under way (until 'Dispatched from Exchange Office')” | Japan Post |
Check your package
Paste your tracking number to open the latest status on the official carrier website.