What is customs clearance?
Customs clearance means declaring your goods to the customs authority when they enter (or leave) the EU. You declare what the goods are, what they're worth and where they come from – and pay any duty and import VAT.
Only once the declaration is approved and the charges are paid are the goods released and free to be delivered. If something is missing, the shipment gets stuck in customs, which costs both time and money.
When is clearance needed?
Clearance is required for all trade with countries outside the EU customs union – for example Norway, the United Kingdom (after Brexit), the USA, China and Switzerland.
For trade within the EU no clearance is needed. The goods move freely and you only need a consignment note and packing list.
Step by step
A typical import clearance goes like this:
- 1. Get an EORI number – your unique customs identifier (required for all customs handling).
- 2. Classify the goods with the correct commodity code (HS/Taric) – the code sets the duty rate.
- 3. Determine the customs value – usually the price plus freight and insurance to the EU border.
- 4. Submit the customs declaration to the customs authority.
- 5. Pay duty (per the commodity code) and import VAT (normally 25% in Sweden).
- 6. The goods are released and delivered onward.
Documents you need
Have these ready and clearance goes smoothly:
- Commercial invoice with value and goods description
- Packing list
- Transport document (e.g. CMR consignment note)
- A certificate of origin where relevant – it can lower the duty
- Any licences or permits for certain goods
Common mistakes – and why many get help
The wrong commodity code, an incorrect customs value or missing documents are the most common reasons goods get held up. The rules also change continually.
That's why many let a forwarder handle customs. We prepare the right classification, declare correctly and make sure your delivery crosses the border without stopping – so you avoid the risk.
Common questions
What does import duty cost?+
The duty rate depends on the commodity code and the value of the goods, ranging from 0% upward. On top of duty there's normally import VAT of 25%. We'll help you calculate it for your goods.
How long does clearance take?+
With the right documents it's often quick – the same day. What causes delays is missing details or the wrong commodity code, which we make sure to avoid.
Can you handle customs clearance for me?+
Yes. Customs clearance and forwarding is one of our services – we handle the entire process at both import and export.