From our previous post talking about what “Import customs clearance started” means on AliExpress, we noted that it’s all about an item getting cleared by customs in the destination country.
How about the recent update on, “Import customs clearance completed?” Let’s find out right away.
What Does, “Import Customs Clearance Completed” Mean On AliExpress?
This AliExpress tracking status means that an item has successfully undergone customs clearance in the destination country.
However, it doesn’t usually always get handed over to the last-mile carrier too soon as it could be among the last in the queue.
That explains why the tracking status can take hours or days to switch from clearance completed to, “The package was successfully handed over after customs clearance.”
Why Is My Item Stuck On Import Customs Clearance Completed?
Your Item Is Among The Last In The Queue
If the customs or the logistics provider is handling a large volume of shipments, items at the end of the queue may experience delays. The customs clearance process might be completed, but the item could be waiting its turn to be handed over to the local delivery service.
Sometimes, also, operational inefficiencies or staffing issues at the customs or logistics facility can slow down the processing of items, especially those at the end of the queue.
Your Item Is Waiting For Local Carrier PickupWaiting for Local Carrier Pickup
Local carriers often have scheduled times for picking up cleared items from customs. If your item cleared customs just after a pickup, it might have to wait until the next scheduled pickup time.
Again, if the local carrier has limited capacity or is experiencing a high volume of pickups, items at the end of the queue might be left behind and have to wait for the next available pickup.
It’s vital to note that the tracking status will only change when the customs office hands over your item to the last-mile carrier.
You Opted For Economy AliExpress Shipping
Some shipments might be prioritized based on service level (e.g., express shipping), causing standard shipments to be delayed further.
If yours was Economy shipping, your item will take the longest before it gets released to head over to your destination.
Documentation Or Administrative Hold
Even though customs clearance is completed, there might be additional administrative checks or documentation requirements that need to be fulfilled before the item can be released. This can cause delays, especially if the item is not prioritized.
If there is any missing or incomplete information related to the shipment, it might be held until the issue is resolved, even after customs clearance.
Missed Scan
AliExpress doesn’t always provide updates whenever an item makes the slightest movement, and we always recommend using free third-party tracking sites for a more refined update on where exactly an item is.
While AliExpress might still show that import customs clearance has been completed, you might be surprised to find out that the parcel is actually on its way to you.
What Should I Do When My AliExpress Item Is Stuck On Import Customs Clearance Completed?
Re-track The Item Using Third-party Sites
Free third-party sites such as 17Track and Parcelsapp are usually integrated into package delivery company systems and offer finer details about where items are stuck.
We usually recommend going this route for your peace of mind as you might stop worrying after finding out that your item is already in your nearest distribution center.