Official Meaning of “Clearance Event” on DHL & What to Do

DHL is one of the largest international shipping companies in the world, with a presence in over 220 countries and territories.

If you’re shipping a package with DHL, it’s important to understand their customs clearance policies and procedures to ensure that your package is delivered smoothly and on time.

When tracking an international package on DHL, clearance event is a term that you’re likely to come across.

Many people are left scratching their heads when they see this status on their tracking information.

While it may seem like just another status update, it’s a crucial step in the process of getting your package through customs and to your doorstep.

Table of Contents

• What is the Meaning of “Clearance Event” on DHL?
• How Long Does Clearance Event Take on DHL?
• What to Do When Your Package Encounters a Clearance Event
• 3 Most Common Reasons for Clearance Delays
  • 1. Incorrect or missing documentation
  • 2. Prohibited items
  • 3. High value
• Steps to Take If Your Package Contains Restricted Items
• Steps to Take If Your Package Is Rejected
  • Ask DHL for help
  • Appeal the decision
  • Reach out to the embassy
• Can You Get Compensation for a Delayed Package?
  • Eligibility
  • Filing a Claim

What is the Meaning of “Clearance Event” on DHL?

This simply means that your package is being processed by customs.

It’s a procedure that involves the inspection of packages by customs to make certain that they comply with the laws and regulations required by the government.

The process is necessary for all international shipments and helps to ensure that your package can enter the destination country legally, safely, and securely.

How Long Does Clearance Event Take on DHL?

It usually takes 1 to 2 working days, depending on the specific customs regulations of the country of origin and destination, as well as the specific circumstances of the clearance event.

The process can include checking for prohibited items, verifying the value of the package, and assessing any duties or taxes that need to be paid.

Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean that there’s a problem with the contents of the package.

It simply means that customs need to inspect the package to verify that it complies with the regulations of the destination country.

What to Do When Your Package Encounters a Clearance Event

There’s usually nothing you need to do during this period unless you’re contacted by a DHL representative for additional information or documentation.

You’ll certainly be contacted if anything is needed from you. And when this happens, be sure to provide as many details as possible to avoid any further delays.

It may be tempting at this point to contact customs directly.

But don’t do that.

DHL handles all the customs paperwork and communication on your behalf, so you don’t need to worry about contacting customs.

However, if your package remains at the “clearance event” stage for an extended period, don’t hesitate to contact DHL customer service for more information on the status of the package.

3 Most Common Reasons for Clearance Delays

Below are some of the most common factors that may cause clearance delays for international shipments.

1. Incorrect or missing documentation

The clearance process may be delayed if the required documentation is incorrect or missing.

Some such documentations include a packing list, invoice, and certificate of origin.

2. Prohibited items

A package containing items prohibited from entering the destination country can cause a clearance delay or even be rejected.

3. High value

Packages that are worth a lot of money may be subject to additional scrutiny to ensure that the value is accurate and that any duties or taxes are paid.

Steps to Take If Your Package Contains Restricted Items

Restricted items are items that are legal to ship but require special permits or licenses to be imported into the destination country.

They can cause packages to get stuck in customs clearance, which can delay delivery or even result in rejection.

Examples of restricted items are certain types of food, plants, and animals, as well as certain types of medications and electronics.

These items may get stuck in customs clearance until the necessary permits or licenses are obtained.

If your package is already in transit and you realize that it contains restricted items, the best action to take is to contact DHL to remove the restricted items from the package or obtain the required permits or licenses.

Steps to Take If Your Package Is Rejected

Several things can happen if your package is rejected by customs officials.

It may be returned to the sender, held for further inspection, or destroyed. The outcome depends on the situation.

There are some actions you can take if you encounter this challenge.

Ask DHL for help

DHL can help to resolve the issue if the rejection is due to missing paperwork or similar reasons. Work closely with them to ensure a smooth delivery.

Appeal the decision

This can be done if you believe that the rejection was an error. DHL can assist you with this process and guide you on the necessary steps to take.

Reach out to the embassy

The embassy of the destination country may help resolve any miscommunication if the rejection is due to a misunderstanding.

Can You Get Compensation for a Delayed Package?

You may be eligible for compensation from DHL if your package is delayed due to customs clearance.

Here are things to keep in mind concerning getting compensation.

Eligibility

Compensation is typically available if DHL fails to deliver your package within the promised timeframe.

You may be offered a refund or credit for the shipping cost.

The amount of compensation may vary based on the type of shipment and the delay period.

Filing a Claim

Filing a compensation claim will require you to provide certain documentation, which includes your shipping receipt, proof of the value of the contents of your package, and any additional expenses you may have incurred as a result of the delay.

Note that you’ll need to submit your claim within a certain timeframe, which may vary depending on the specific policies of DHL and the destination country.