How Customs Clearance Works 

When goods cross a border, clearing customs is one of the key hurdles in your supply chain.

 it’s a process that touches on classification, origin, duties, compliance, inspection, transport and more. At Levaco, with our base in Antwerp and decades of forwarding experience, we treat customs clearance as an integral part of the logistics flow , not an afterthought.

Here’s a breakdown of how the customs clearance process typically works and how Levaco supports each step.

When shipments arrive at a port or border, customs authorities review documentation, duties, taxes, and compliance with regulations. This process helps maintain security, enforce trade laws, and make sure the correct duties are paid. While it can seem complex, having an experienced partner makes all the difference.

Levaco combines freight forwarding with customs expertise, giving you a single point of contact to handle documentation, compliance, and coordination. Being based near the Port of Antwerp, we have local knowledge of terminals, procedures, and regulatory requirements all of which allows shipments to move more smoothly and reliably.

Working with a trusted partner like Levaco means less stress, fewer surprises, and more confidence that your goods will reach their destination on time and in compliance with the rules.

 

 Getting Customs Right: Why Accurate Data Matters More Than Ever 

As international trade regulations evolve, businesses must stay ahead of compliance requirements to avoid costly delays and penalties. Two major developments are set to impact import-export operations in the coming months: the final phase of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and stricter enforcement of customs data accuracy under the Temporary Storage Declaration (TSD) framework.

CBAM: What’s Changing?

On October 17, the Belgian CBAM authority hosted an information session in Brussels to present the final phase of CBAM and the Omnibus Simplification Package. These reforms aim to streamline carbon reporting and border adjustment procedures for goods entering the EU.

Key dates to note:

  • Effective date: January 1, 2026
  • First reporting deadline: September 30, 2027

The changes are designed to ensure fair carbon pricing and reduce emissions linked to imported goods. Businesses involved in cross-border trade should prepare now by reviewing their carbon reporting obligations and supply chain data.

 Customs Accuracy: Your Role in Smooth Clearance 

In parallel, customs authorities are emphasizing the importance of accurate and complete data for the Bill of Lading and related declarations. This is especially critical under the ICS2 – Release 3 and the Temporary Storage Declaration (TSD) requirements.

Key Data Elements Requiring Accuracy 

  1. HS Codes (Commodity Codes): These determine tariff rates and customs duties. Errors can lead to misclassification and fines.
  2. Postal Codes and Addresses: Full and correct details of both sender and receiver are mandatory.
  3. Goods Allocation per Consignee: For consolidated shipments, each importer’s goods must be clearly identified with correct quantities and HS codes.
  4. Entry Summary Declaration (ENS): The ENS forms the basis for the TSD and must be referenced correctly.
  5. Other Shipment Data: Package count, gross/net weights, and packaging details must match the commercial documents.

TSD – What You Need to Know 

Under Article 145 of the Union Customs Code (UCC), all non-EU goods presented to customs must be covered by a Temporary Storage Declaration.

  • The TSD can be lodged up to 30 days before arrival, but must be submitted before unloading.
  • Once the Presentation Notification is made, goods enter temporary storage under the responsibility of the RTO (Temporary Storage Facility holder).

Source: Regulation – EU – 2025/2083 – EN – EUR-Lex