Once the declaration is filed, the system returns one of three channels. Knowing what each one needs saves waiting days.
Green
Cleared immediately, no document check, no physical check. Duty still has to be paid before release.
Yellow
Customs checks the document set. The usual problems are an invoice and packing list that disagree on package count or weight, and a certificate of origin on the wrong form.
Check three numbers before filing: package count, gross weight and value. They must match across the invoice, packing list and bill of lading.
Red
The container is opened for a physical check. Have someone at the yard and handling equipment ready, because the inspection slot is usually set same day.
If the container holds several HS codes, prepare a stowage list showing where each code sits. It makes the check much faster.
