Customs clearance and restrictions

Know the Different Entry Types

While proper documentation is important for avoiding customs delays, it is also important to be familiar with the customs clearance entry types and processes.

Depending upon the value, commodity and entry type, the customs clearance process will vary.

De Minimis – this entry type is part of a consolidated pre-clearance using manifest data

Informal – this entry type clears customs as part of an informal manifest clearance managed under a DHL bond. Duty payment may be required depending upon the classification

Formal – this entry type requires formal entry process. Shipments are held for separate Automated Broker Interface (ABI) entry. Duty and Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) payment is required

To make a formal entry of goods (for imported commercial shipments) into the U.S., the following documents are generally required:

DHL Express waybill

Commercial invoice

Packaging lists

Specific import permits or licenses for special commodities controlled by U.S. government agencies

Help Avoid Customs Delays

Before your exporter hands over shipments to DHL, help them make sure the paperwork is complete and accurate to help avoid delays in the customs process.

Review this checklist to help ensure faster customs clearance.

Provide all necessary documents

List each commodity separately with accurate descriptions

Check for consistency across all documents

Make sure documents are clearly written, typed or electronically submitted

Provide as much detailed information as possible

Confirm that all associated costs are correct

Ensure that receiving country or person is not on a Denied Parties list

Prohibited Commodities

Before you ship with DHL Express, it's important to check whether your goods are restricted. Search for “Prohibited and Restricted Items” on MyDHL+ for a full list based on your country of origin and/or destination.

If you are still in any doubt as to the acceptability of your goods, you can contact DHL Customer Service or your Account Manager prior to shipping.

MyGTS: Your Gateway to Easy International Shipping

Shipping cross-border can seem complex, and incorrect customs paperwork is one of the main causes of delays for SMEs shipping across borders.

To speed up international shipping and simplify customs transactions, DHL Express has developed My Global Trade Services, an intuitive, all-in-one portal.

MyGTS is a free, user-friendly platform that will help you navigate all international shipping regulations, seamlessly. You can log in with your existing DHL Express Business Account or register a new MyGTS account to access:

Pre-shipment Planner: a dedicated tool to help your business comply with all import/export regulations and calculate Landed Cost.

Accurate Harmonized System Codes: no more guesswork; MyGTS leverages AI to give you the correct classification for your shipment every time, making customs clearance faster. Search for HS codes using keywords or the code directory.

Landed Cost for goods in any country: calculate your product cost, duties & taxes, and freight charges to enhance your pricing strategy and give your customers transparency over shipping fees – which builds trust with your business.

Guidance on each country’s import and export requirements before you ship – no more goods held up at borders!

All the documents you’ll need for fast and easy customs clearance.

A product catalog feature – where you can save past searches, product details and tariff codes for quicker repeat shipping.

You can log in to MyGTS with your existing DHL Express account, or register a new MyGTS account. Click below for your options.