Yes, you can contact customs about a package, but it's usually best to go through the shipping carrier (USPS, FedEx, UPS) first, as they handle clearance and can tell you the exact status or reason for delay; if that fails, you can use the CBP Information Center or specific agency contacts, but be prepared with your tracking number and details.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
If you need to reach out to the Australian Border Force (ABF) directly, here are the proper channels: Phone: Dial 131 881, the ABF general enquiries line for trade, cargo and customs.
To contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) directly, use the online CBP Info Center for general questions, locate your specific local port of entry for location-based issues, or email specialized offices like Trade Transformation or FOIA for specific trade or records requests. For travel-specific issues, check the International Visitors or U.S. Citizens/LPRs sections, or use the dedicated contact points for Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry.
For general enquires regarding import, export, international trade and the National Cearance Hub (NCH) please contact the HMRC Customs and International Trade Helpline on Telephone: 0300 200 3700.
If the post office has a tracking number that indicates the package went into CBP but no record of it exiting the facility, you might ask the USPS customer service representatives to work directly with the CBP facility to see if it is still there - although the absence of a record is not proof that the package is still ...
HMRC also operates a number of services, including: ● Import/export general enquiries can be made by calling 0300 200 3700. You can also speak to an adviser onlineabout general import and export queries. It is also possible to send a question about imports, exports and customs reliefs.
Contact us
Travellers and importers seeking to obtain more information on CBSA offices and services can call the Border Information Service (BIS) at 1-800-959-2036 or complete the CBSA Client support contact form. Site Name: Date modified: 2025-08-22.
Note: Airports have fast-track programs to help you get through customs quicker. Some passengers gain access to them because they fly first class or business class. But other airports let you buy into the program for a fee. Call or search up the airport online to learn about any fast-track programs they may have.
Customs clearance in Australia typically takes 24 to 72 hours for standard shipments, but complex goods, documentation errors, or peak periods can extend this to 7-10 working days or more.
over AUD$1,000. To import goods with a value above AUD$1,000, you will need to lodge an Import Declaration about your shipment. There is a processing charge for making an Import Declaration, and you will also be required to pay duties and taxes. The import duty rate is 5% of the FOB (Free on Board) value.
All imported goods are screened by the Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
Call the Department of Home Affairs Global Service Centre on 131 881.
Customs will hold your package until the issues are resolved, which can range from days to weeks, depending on the complexity of the problem and the efficiency of the customs office. If customs determine there has been a violation, such as under-declaration of value, they may impose fines or penalties.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers do not call individuals or send unsolicited emails regarding packages, consignments, or monetary instruments, that are allegedly being held.
Reach out to the carrier, whether the courier or postal service, and ask for the customs official responsible for your parcel. You can also go to the official government website to contact the customs representatives.
The best way to do this is generally through the courier's website, where you will be able to find out what is happening. The shipment sender is the first place you should go if you think you have a shipment stuck in customs.
General Inquiries: 1-877-227-5511. Para ayuda en español, presione ocho. International callers' dial: 00+1+202-325-8000.
Arriving goods must comply with local regulations. If they don't, customs will hold them. A parcel can be held for something simple, like missing the receiver's contact details on the paperwork; or for something more complex, like a large food shipment missing ingredient labeling in the local language.
Contact Us
Customs, the government service responsible for administering international trade laws, inspects and regulates every shipment to make sure the contents comply with the importing country or territory's regulations.
Our Customer Service Advisors are available to answer your queries on the Customs and International Trade helpline. They'll help you with importing, exporting and customs reliefs. The helpline is open from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday and from 8am to 4pm at weekends. Call to speak to an advisor on 0300 322 9434.
Documentation - The importer or exporter must provide the necessary documents—such as invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, import/export permits, etc. —to the customs authorities. Often an importer/exporter will utilize a customs broker to work directly with customs on their behalf.
How to Handle Customs Problems