Update on Customs Control in Ukraine

Ukrainian customs authorities have strengthened the inspection of shipments with unclear, overly general, or incomplete descriptions of package contents.

This means that packages described simply as “electronics,” “gift,” “accessories,” “clothing,” “cosmetics,” “auto parts,” and similar general terms may be more likely to be selected for additional customs inspection. As a result, the processing time for such shipments may be longer than usual.

To help reduce the risk of delays, it is important to describe each item in the customs declaration as accurately and specifically as possible.

Why has customs control become more thorough?

Since 2023, the State Customs Service of Ukraine has significantly strengthened the automation and digitalization of customs inspections through the Automated Risk Analysis and Management System, known as ASАUR.

Recently, new data analysis tools and AI-based solutions have also been integrated into the customs review process. These tools may automatically flag certain shipments for additional inspection.

Due to the high volume of packages entering Ukraine, combined with enhanced automated checks, some shipments may currently remain under customs inspection longer than usual.

How can you reduce the risk of customs delays?

The most important step is to provide a clear, accurate, and detailed description of the package contents, along with the correct value of each item.

In the customs declaration, we recommend including:

• brand or trademark;
• type of item;
• model;
• quantity;
• size;
• material;
• key product specifications.

The more detailed and accurate the description is, the lower the chance of additional inspections and delivery delays.

General product names do not provide customs authorities with enough information to properly classify a shipment. Instead of short or broad descriptions, use specific product names with relevant details.

Avoid general descriptions — use detailed descriptions

*Product names and details are provided as examples only. All items in your shipment must be described as accurately as possible and in accordance with the actual contents of your package.

How does Meest help customers declare shipments correctly?

Meest continuously works on improving its digital solutions — the Meest Portal and mobile app — to make it easier for customers to provide complete and accurate information for customs clearance.

• A Description field has been added to the Meest Portal and mobile app. This field should be used to provide detailed information about each item, including the brand, model, specifications, quantity, size, material, and any other important details.

• Meest is also expanding the list of available products within categories to help customers find the most accurate category for their items.
• In addition, Meest is working on implementing smart product search through detailed categories and an AI assistant.
  

If your package is already at customs

Can Meest speed up the processing of a package that is already under customs control?

Meest cannot influence the timing of customs inspections or the decisions made by the State Customs Service of Ukraine. Customs is a government authority and operates according to its own procedures and inspection rules.

Meest is a logistics company that provides international delivery services. We do everything possible on our side to help customers declare shipments correctly, improve service quality and communication, and minimize the risk of possible delays.

Please complete the item description in your declaration carefully and provide the most accurate information possible about the contents and value of the items in your package. This can help reduce the likelihood of additional inspections and support faster shipment processing.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued trust in Meest!

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