How to Handle Customs Issues When Importing from India

Customs issues can delay your shipment by days or weeks and cost significant money in storage fees and penalties. Here's how to prevent and handle common problems.

Common Customs Issues

• **Documentation errors**: Incorrect invoices, mismatched quantities, missing certificates

• **HS code classification**: Disputes over product classification and applicable duty rates

• **Valuation disputes**: Customs questioning the declared value of goods

• **Missing certificates**: Fumigation, quality, or compliance certificates not provided

• **Prohibited/restricted items**: Some products require special import licences

Prevention

The best approach is prevention: verify all documentation before shipment, use correct HS codes, ensure certificates are valid and complete, and declare accurate values. Your freight forwarder and customs broker should flag potential issues before the shipment arrives.

Resolution

If customs holds your shipment: respond quickly with requested documentation, work with a licensed customs broker who can negotiate with customs officials, provide additional evidence if needed, and consider a duty review if you believe the classification is incorrect.

Cost of Delays

Customs delays incur: port storage charges (daily fees that add up quickly), demurrage charges (shipping line fees for extended container use), and opportunity cost (delayed product means delayed sales). Quick resolution minimises these costs.