UPS Clearance Information Required: Quick Fix Guide 2024

Getting a “UPS Clearance Information Required” notification can stop your international shipment in its tracks. This status appears when your package lacks essential customs documentation, but you can get it moving again with the right steps.

What Does UPS Clearance Information Required Mean?

Your package has reached a UPS facility but can’t proceed through customs due to missing paperwork. The most common trigger is a missing commercial invoice, which customs officials need to process your shipment.

Common Reasons for Clearance Information Requests

Missing documentation happens for several reasons. Sometimes shippers forget to include required paperwork. Other times, documents get separated from packages during transit. Key missing items often include:

• Commercial invoices
• Power of attorney documentation
• Customs declarations
• Import/export permits

Impact on Delivery Timelines

A clearance information request can delay your shipment anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. In worst-case scenarios, packages return to their sender. UPS typically tries to obtain missing information from the shipper first. If they can’t get the required documents, they’ll initiate a return to sender (RTS) process.

Essential Documentation for UPS Customs Clearance

Commercial Invoice Requirements

A commercial invoice must include:

• Full shipper details
• Complete consignee information
• Reference numbers (Invoice, Purchase Order)
• Date of shipment
• Detailed description of goods
• Quantity and value of items
• Country of origin
• Harmonized Tariff Code for import country

Your commercial invoice needs printing on company letterhead with an original signature in blue ink for authenticity.

Bill of Lading and Waybill Documentation

For ocean shipments, you need a Bill of Lading (B/L) that:

• Proves contract of carriage
• Shows title of goods
• Provides handling instructions

Air shipments require Air Waybills (AWB) containing:

• Shipper and consignee details
• Description of goods
• Origin and destination locations
• Special handling instructions

Packing List Specifications

Your packing list must detail:

• Item descriptions
• Individual product quantities
• Weight and dimensions
• Packaging type details
• Harmonized System (HS) codes
• Special handling requirements

Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving UPS Clearance Issues

Immediate Actions to Take

1. Check your tracking number for specific missing document details
2. Contact your shipper immediately
3. Gather all available shipping documentation
4. Prepare digital copies of required papers
5. Contact UPS customer service with your tracking number

Working with Your Shipper

Reach out to your shipper right away. They need to:

1. Provide missing documentation to UPS
2. Confirm document submission
3. Track resolution progress
4. Communicate any additional requirements

Timeline for Resolution

Resolution times vary based on:

• Document availability
• Shipper response time
• Customs processing speeds
• Country-specific requirements

Most cases resolve within 2-5 business days if documents arrive quickly.

Preventing UPS Clearance Information Delays

Pre-Shipping Documentation Checklist

Before shipping internationally, ensure you have:

• Complete commercial invoice
• Accurate packing list
• Proper Bill of Lading/Waybill
• Required permits and licenses
• Power of attorney documentation
• Customs declarations forms

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete item descriptions
• Missing value declarations
• Incorrect HS codes
• Unsigned documents
• Missing country of origin
• Incomplete shipper/consignee details

International Shipping Requirements by Region

US Import Requirements

US Customs requires:

• Form 3461 (Entry/Immediate Delivery)
• Detailed commercial invoice
• Complete packing list
• Proper product classification

European Union Specifications

EU shipments need:

• VAT documentation
• Commercial invoice
• Country of origin proof
• Product-specific certificates

UK Post-Brexit Considerations

UK shipments require:

• Commercial invoice with VAT details
• Import declaration forms
• Country of origin certification
• Product compliance documentation

UPS Paperless Solutions and Digital Documentation

UPS Paperless Invoice System

Sign up through:

1. UPS.com account login
2. Account Details in Actions menu
3. Paperless Invoicing option
4. Account Enrollment process

Digital Documentation Benefits

• Faster customs processing
• Reduced paperwork errors
• Easy document storage
• Quick information retrieval
• Environmental benefits

Special Cases and Considerations

High-Value Shipments

High-value items need:

• Insurance documentation
• Detailed value declaration
• Special handling instructions
• Additional security measures

Restricted Items

Restricted items require:

• Special permits
• Additional documentation
• Product certifications
• Safety declarations

Understanding Customs Broker Services

Role of Customs Brokers

Customs brokers provide:

• Documentation preparation
• Regulatory compliance checks
• Classification assistance
• Customs communication
• Clearance facilitation

When to Use a Broker

Consider a customs broker for:

• Complex shipments
• High-value items
• Regular international shipping
• Time-sensitive deliveries
• Multiple destination countries

Cost and Time Implications

Additional Fees and Charges

Delays can lead to:

• Storage fees
• Processing charges
• Re-routing costs
• Return shipping fees
• Documentation charges

Storage and Holding Costs

Extended storage may incur:

• Daily holding fees
• Warehouse charges
• Climate control costs
• Security fees
• Handling charges

Record Keeping Requirements

Keep all shipping documents for:

• US shipments: 5 years
• Canadian shipments: 6 years

Missing records can result in penalties up to $100,000 per file in the US.

Final Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance

Success with international shipping requires preparation and attention to detail. Keep copies of all documentation, respond quickly to information requests, and maintain clear communication with your shipper and UPS.

Remember that proper documentation prevents most clearance delays. When you receive a “UPS Clearance Information Required” notice, act quickly to provide missing information and keep your shipment moving forward.