S&F COMEX – international tradeS&F COMEX
Aerial view of a port terminal at night, with stacked containers and cranes over a vessel
Port terminal · Cargo in storage
When the cargo is already on its way

How long customs clearance takes.

There is no single timeframe: it depends on documentation, the product and the checks assigned by customs. What you can do is arrive prepared.

PRACTICAL GUIDE · UPDATED OCTOBER 2026

Clearance is more than one procedure.

There are several stages between the cargo’s arrival in the country and delivery to your warehouse. Each takes time, and a problem at any stage holds up those that follow.

01

Arrival and storage

The goods arrive at the port or airport and remain in storage under customs control until cleared. Storage costs accrue while they wait.

02

Registering the declaration

Using the invoice, packing list and transport document, the customs broker registers the operation with customs. Any inconsistent details must be corrected before proceeding.

03

Payment of taxes

Duties, fees and taxes are paid before release. Having funds ready avoids cargo waiting for a transfer.

04

Channel and checks

Customs assigns a selectivity channel determining the checks. This stage causes the greatest variation in total time.

05

Release and collection

Once checks are complete, the goods are released, collected from storage and delivered to the agreed destination.

Customs channels

The assigned channel affects timing.

Customs assigns the channel based on its risk criteria; you cannot choose it. You can ensure that documentation is in order so any checks can be completed without issues.

V

Green channel

Goods are released without documentary or physical inspection. This is the fastest scenario.

N

Orange channel

Customs reviews the documentation before release. Complete, consistent documents allow the check to be completed without additional delays.

R

Red channel

The goods are physically inspected in addition to the documents. This is the slowest scenario because inspection must be coordinated at the warehouse.

What extends the timeframe

Why clearance is delayed.

Most delays arise from matters that can be anticipated before cargo arrives, rather than from customs itself:

01

Other agency approvals

Food, cosmetics, electrical products, toys and other categories may need authorizations or certificates. If applications begin after arrival, the cargo waits.

02

Document errors

Differences between the invoice, packing list and transport document raise issues that must be resolved before release.

03

Discrepancies in the goods received

If quantity, description or packaging differs from the declaration, inspections take longer and fines may apply.

04

Funds and payments

Unplanned taxes or destination charges delay payment and, in turn, release.

05

Operational congestion

Peak season, port or warehouse delays and inspection appointments may add time even when everything is in order.

The cost of waiting: warehouse storage is charged daily, and for ocean shipments the shipping line may charge for each day the container is not returned. Well-prepared clearance saves time and money. Read the cost guide →

Before arrival

We review your documents before arrival.

We check the invoice, packing list, transport document and agency requirements so cargo does not wait in storage because of an avoidable error.

Frequently asked questions

What we are
asked most.

Common questions from people awaiting cargo.

How many days does customs clearance take?

It depends on the assigned channel, product and complete documentation. With everything prepared and a green channel, release may be quick; pending approvals or a red channel take longer. Review the operation before arrival.

Can I choose the channel?

No. Customs assigns it based on its risk criteria. Well-documented operations and a sound record help checks proceed without issues.

Can clearance preparations start before the cargo arrives?

Yes: documentation, approvals and funds can be prepared while the goods are in transit. This saves the most time.

What happens if cargo stays in storage too long?

Storage costs and, for ocean freight, container return charges accumulate. Storage is also subject to legal time limits: exceeding them may result in fines.

Is courier faster?

It can be for small shipments, but limits apply to value and type of goods. Read the courier regime guide →

From information to your operation

Professional analysis · USD 200

We review your product requirements, estimate costs and recommend the shipment method and transport before you pay the supplier.

What the analysis includes →
Soledad Facchetti
Soledad FacchettiForeign Trade Manager · More than 13 years of experienceMeet the person supporting your operation ↗

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