How to release packages held in Mexican Customs

If you purchased products from abroad or your company imported goods into Mexico, there’s a chance your shipment could be held during the customs review process.

In Mexico, this usually happens when authorities detect missing documentation, unpaid taxes, restricted products, or regulatory issues that prevent the goods from legally entering the country.

Although many people assume this is a serious problem, in most cases packages can be released by following the proper process.

Most common reasons why goods are held in Customs

1. Missing Documentation

One of the most common reasons is incomplete or incorrect paperwork.

Examples:

Incomplete commercial invoice
Incorrect consignee information
Generic product descriptions (“accessories,” “clothing,” etc.)
Missing tax identification information when required

2. Pending Duties or Taxes

In Mexico, imported products may generate:

Import VAT
Customs duties
Customs processing fees

If these payments are not completed, the shipment cannot be released.

Example:

You purchased electronics from Asia, and the declared value exceeded the tax-free threshold. Customs requires payment before releasing the package.

3. Regulated or Restricted Products

Some products require special permits or must comply with Mexican NOM regulations.

Products commonly held:

Cosmetics
Supplements
Electronics
Toys
Medical products
Food items

4. Customs Inspection

Mexican customs authorities may randomly select shipments for physical inspection or risk review.

This can happen even when all documentation is correct.

What Should You Do If Your Package Is Held?

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Identify the Reason for Retention

The shipping carrier usually provides:

The reason for the hold
Required documents
Pending tax amounts
Response deadlines

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Depending on the case, authorities may request:

Commercial invoice
Proof of payment
Government-issued ID
Tax ID (RFC)
Personal or commercial use letter
Health permits or NOM certifications

Step 3: Pay Pending Duties or Fees

If taxes are owed:

Customs calculates the amount
The shipping carrier provides payment instructions
Once payment is confirmed, the release process continues

Step 4: Determine If You Need Professional Assistance

If your shipment:

Has a high commercial value
Is intended for resale
Requires special permits
Has been held for an extended period

…it’s highly recommended to work with international trade specialists.

How long does customs release take?

It depends on the reason for the hold.

Estimated timelines in 2026:

Simple cases: 2–5 business days
Regulated products: 1–3 weeks
Complex inspections or audits: longer

The faster you provide accurate information, the faster the process moves forward.

Common mistakes that make the situation worse

❌ Declaring a lower product value
❌ Using vague product descriptions
❌ Importing restricted goods without checking requirements
❌ Ignoring carrier notifications
❌ Using personal import schemes for commercial merchandise

How to avoid having packages held in Customs

✔ Declare the real product value
✔ Verify whether the product requires NOM compliance or permits
✔ Request complete invoices from suppliers
✔ Check import restrictions before purchasing
✔ Work with professional logistics and customs experts

When should you contact experts?

If your operations involve:

frequent imports,
regulated products,
commercial international purchases,
or high-value cargo,

working with professionals can help prevent delays, penalties, and unnecessary costs.

In these cases, a customs agency in CDMX like Remar International can help you:

review documentation,
manage import regulations,
calculate duties correctly,
and speed up the customs release process.

Having a package held in customs does not necessarily mean your goods are lost. In most situations, the issue can be resolved by submitting the correct documents and complying with current Mexican import regulations.

Professional guidance can significantly reduce risks and simplify the process, especially for commercial operations or recurring imports. A customs agency in CDMX can become a strategic partner to help release shipments more efficiently, safely, and in full compliance with Mexican law.