Why Are Your Goods Held by Customs? The 6 Main Reasons Explained

Ahmed El Maghribi
Expert in international trade- Import Export Consultant

For years, I’ve been getting the same question from people in different countries:
“My goods have arrived, but customs have seized them. Why does this happen and what can I do?”
I’ve already discussed this topic in a video on my official YouTube channel, but I’d like to take this opportunity to explain, in detail, the main reasons why customs might seize your goods.

1. Importing for commercial purposes under a personal name

If you import goods for business purposes using your personal name instead of a registered company, customs are very likely to hold your shipment. In most countries, you must have a registered business to import or export goods commercially. Imports for personal use are usually limited to just one or two units of a product.

2. Missing required documents

Many new importers or exporters lack experience and sometimes overlook essential paperwork. When your goods arrive at the airport or port, if customs find that any required documents or permits are missing, your shipment will be held until you provide the necessary paperwork. If you don’t complete the process, your goods may be permanently seized. Sometimes, you can return the goods to the sender, but this requires agreement between both parties and extra shipping costs.

3. Incorrect declaration of goods

Some importers provide inaccurate information about the type or weight of their goods—sometimes by mistake, sometimes to avoid paying customs duties or to benefit from preferential treatment. These false declarations often result in customs holding the goods and may lead to fines based on the seriousness of the error.

4. Importing or exporting prohibited items

The law strictly forbids importing or exporting items that are dangerous to public health, safety, morality, the environment, animals, or plants, as well as drugs, weapons, and controlled substances. Any attempt to import or export such items will inevitably result in their seizure.

5. Missing special permits

Certain products require special permits before they can be imported or exported. For example, medicines and dietary supplements need approval from the Ministry of Health, while food products must be cleared by food safety authorities. Without these documents, your goods will remain stuck at the border until the situation is resolved.

6. Failure to declare goods and pay customs duties

To ensure your goods reach their destination, it’s essential to declare them to customs and pay the required duties. This is the job of a customs broker, who makes sure all necessary information (sender, recipient, type, value, origin, destination, etc.) is correctly entered into the customs system. Without this step, your goods cannot be released.

Before importing or exporting any product, it’s highly recommended to get advice on the required procedures and documents. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance to avoid any issues.