Independent · not a carrier

"Import Scan" (UPS): what it means and how long it lasts

An international package was scanned entering (import) or leaving (export) a country through UPS.

Normally lasts: Customs can add 1-5 days or more.

When to act: If there is no update 5 business days after the import scan, or tracking shows a customs hold.

Also shown as: Export Scan

What to do

  1. Watch for a request for documents or duties.
  2. Contact UPS or the shipper if customs needs information.

UPS service alerts now

UPS blocks automated checks of its alert page. See UPS's official service alerts.

Last checked: starting up · UPS service alerts: the carrier blocks automated checks, so use its official page (linked here)· 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 UPS hubs below, for live alerts and how long packages normally sit there.

UPS Worldport LouisvilleLouisville, KYLouisville, KYUPS Hodgkins, IL Hub (CACH)Hodgkins, ILHodgkins, ILUPS Ontario, CAOntario, CAOntario, CAUPS Philadelphia, PAPhiladelphia, PAPhiladelphia, PAUPS Dfw Airport, TXDFW Airport, TXDFW Airport, TXUPS Rockford, ILRockford, ILRockford, ILUPS Atlanta, GAAtlanta, GAAtlanta, GAUPS West Columbia, SCWest Columbia, SCWest Columbia, SCUPS Jacksonville, FLJacksonville, FLJacksonville, FLUPS Mesquite, TXMesquite, TXMesquite, TXUPS Earth City, MOEarth City, MOEarth City, MOUPS Addison, ILAddison, ILAddison, IL

All UPS facilities

Questions

What does "Import Scan" mean?

An international package was scanned entering (import) or leaving (export) a country through UPS.

How long does "Import Scan" usually last?

Customs can add 1-5 days or more. If there is no update 5 business days after the import scan, or tracking shows a customs hold.

What should I do if my UPS package is stuck on "Import Scan"?

Watch for a request for documents or duties. Contact UPS or the shipper if customs needs information.

Related UPS messages

Sources