"Clearance delay" (FedEx): what it means and how long it lasts
The shipment is still in customs, for reasons like missing or wrong paperwork or extra regulatory checks.
Normally lasts: Often 1-5 business days. Longer if documents are needed.
When to act: If FedEx contacts you, or there's no update for 5 business days.
Also shown as: Clearance in progress, International shipment release - Import
What to do
- Watch for a FedEx request for documents or duty payment.
- Contact the shipper. They usually supply the paperwork.
- Pay any duties FedEx bills to clear it.
FedEx service alerts now
- FedEx service alert Middle East Service Update
FedEx · first seen Nov 14, 6:55 PM EST
FedEx continues to monitor the situation in the Middle East and we are actively adjusting our operations for continued service to and from the region. We are providing pickup and delivery services where it is safe to do so and in line with local guidance. Customers shipping to o… - FedEx service alert Russia and Belarus Service Suspension
FedEx · first seen Nov 14, 6:55 PM EST
All Russian and Belarusian FedEx International services continue to be suspended until further notice. (Initially reported February 24, 2022; Last confirmed September 22, 2026)
Last checked: · FedEx service alerts 41 min ago· Facility facts reviewed November 14, 2026. How we check
Which facility is it at?
The location next to the scan tells you. Type it here, or pick one of the busiest FedEx hubs below, for live alerts and how long packages normally sit there.
MEMPHIS, TNFedEx Indianapolis HubINDIANAPOLIS, INFedEx Fort Worth, TXFORT WORTH, TXFedEx Oakland, CAOAKLAND, CAFedEx Newark, NJNEWARK, NJFedEx Anchorage, AKANCHORAGE, AKFedEx Greensboro, NCGREENSBORO, NCFedEx Miami, FLMIAMI, FLFedEx Ontario, CAONTARIO, CAFedEx Northampton, PANORTHAMPTON, PAFedEx Bedford Park, ILBEDFORD PARK, ILFedEx Hagerstown, MDHAGERSTOWN, MDQuestions
What does "Clearance delay" mean?
The shipment is still in customs, for reasons like missing or wrong paperwork or extra regulatory checks.
How long does "Clearance delay" usually last?
Often 1-5 business days. Longer if documents are needed. If FedEx contacts you, or there's no update for 5 business days.
What should I do if my FedEx package is stuck on "Clearance delay"?
Watch for a FedEx request for documents or duty payment. Contact the shipper. They usually supply the paperwork. Pay any duties FedEx bills to clear it.
Related FedEx messages
- Delivery exception
- Customer not available or business closed
- Shipment exception
- Delay
- Operational delay
- Local delay
- Weather delay
- Running late
Sources
- FedEx FAQ (Canada): Clearance delay (accessed 2026-11-14)
- FedEx FAQ (Canada): Why is my package stuck in customs? (accessed 2026-11-14)