Why Is My Package Stuck at Canadian Customs? A Complete Tracking Guide

There’s little more frustrating than seeing your package stuck at customs. You’ve watched its progress, only for the tracking to freeze with a vague message like “Inbound to Customs” or “Held at Border.”

If your package is headed to Canada and has hit a customs roadblock, you’re not alone. This guide explains why your package is stuck at customs and tells you what to do if your package is stuck at customs.

Understanding Canadian Customs & Why Delays Happen

Canadian customs (CBSA) regulates all goods entering the country. Their job is to collect duties, prevent prohibited items from entering, and ensure safety. While they process millions of shipments efficiently, some packages inevitably experience delays.

Here are the primary reasons why your package is stuck at customs:

• Missing or Incomplete Documentation: This is the most common culprit. All international shipments need accurate paperwork (like a commercial invoice) detailing the contents, value, and origin. If anything is missing, your package is flagged for manual review.
• Incorrect Item Declaration: Shippers inaccurately describing contents (e.g., “gift” instead of “cotton t-shirt”) raises suspicion and triggers an inspection.
• Duties and Taxes Owed: If your package’s value exceeds the threshold, import duties and taxes (GST/HST) are applicable. The courier will notify you to pay these. If not paid promptly, your package remains in customs limbo.
• Prohibited or Restricted Items: Certain items are banned or require special permits (e.g., some foods, firearms, medications). If your package contains such an item, it will be held.
• Random Inspections: Just like at airports, customs conducts random inspections. Your package might be part of a routine check, even if all paperwork is in order.
• High Volume Periods: During peak seasons like holidays, customs facilities can face significant backlogs, causing unavoidable delays.

Deciphering Confusing Tracking Statuses

Here’s a breakdown of common messages you might see when your package is awaiting customs clearance:

• “Inbound to Customs” / “Presented to Customs”: Your package has arrived at a Canadian customs facility and is in the queue for processing. This is a normal step.
• “Held at Customs” / “Customs Clearance Delay”: This is the status that causes anxiety. It means your package is flagged for a closer look for any of the reasons listed above (paperwork, duties, or inspection). It doesn’t guarantee a problem, just that it needs further attention.
• “Customs Clearance” / “Item Processed”: Good news! Your package is cleared by customs and released to the courier for final delivery.
• “Customs Status Updated”: This general message can mean anything from an initial scan to a full release. Check the details or the next status update for clarity.

The Role of the ACI Manifest in Canada Customs

To streamline the flow of goods, the CBSA uses the ACI manifest Canada customs (Advance Commercial Information eManifest). This is an electronic file carriers transmit to the CBSA before goods arrive at the border.

Think of it as a digital heads-up that allows customs to pre-screen shipments and identify risks. If the information on this eManifest is inaccurate, incomplete, or doesn’t match the physical package, the system flags the shipment. This often directly translates into a “Held at Customs” status on your tracking, as it requires a manual intervention to resolve the discrepancy.

What to Do If Your Package Is Stuck at Customs

Seeing your package stuck at customs is frustrating, but don’t panic. Here’s your action plan:

1. Check Your Tracking Regularly: Use a reliable tracking service for the latest updates. Sometimes, a delay is just part of processing.
2. Wait a Reasonable Period: A “Held at Customs” status often resolves within 1-5 business days. Patience is key.
3. Contact the Courier (Not Customs Directly): If your package is awaiting customs clearance for more than 5-7 business days, contact your shipping courier (e.g., FedEx, UPS, Canada Post). The courier is the “importer of record” and has direct communication channels with customs. They can inquire about the delay and tell you if action is needed (like paying duties).
4. Prepare for Duty/Tax Payments: If the delay is due to unpaid duties, the courier will notify you. Timely payment expedites its release.
5. Have Documentation Ready: If the courier requests more information (like proof of purchase), provide it promptly to avoid further delays.

Intelligent Inventory Optimization

Seeing your tracking status freeze is alarming, but a package stuck at customs rarely means it’s lost. More often, it’s a routine processing delay, a check for correct paperwork (like the ACI manifest data), or a queue for collecting import fees.

The key takeaway is to be patient, but proactive. Give it a few business days, but if the delay drags on, contact your courier directly. They are the only ones who can investigate the issue with the CBSA on your behalf.

In the meantime, clear information is your best tool. itscouriertracking.com cuts through the confusion by giving you the most up-to-date status from every carrier, keeping you informed from the warehouse to your door.