Moving goods across borders by road can seem straightforward, but customs processes remain one of the most common points of delay, frustration and added cost. Even experienced businesses can run into problems if the right procedures aren’t followed.

At Powercargo Logistics, we don’t just arrange freight - we manage the entire journey, including the customs process from start to finish. Our clients rely on us to keep their goods moving, avoid errors and save valuable time at the border.

Here are some of the most common customs issues we see in road freight, along with how Powercargo helps you avoid them.

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Where Road Freight Customs Often Go Wrong...

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1. Incomplete or Incorrect Paperwork

Incorrect HS codes, inconsistent invoice values, and missing details like Incoterms or net weights can all lead to clearance delays.

‍How Powercargo helps: We thoroughly check and prepare your customs documentation, ensuring all values, codes and descriptions are accurate before your truck is anywhere near a border.

2. Confusion Around Duties and VAT

Many delays come from confusion over who’s responsible for paying what. If this isn’t clearly defined, you risk shipments being held or refused.

‍How Powercargo helps: We work closely with you to clarify Incoterms and ensure that duty and VAT responsibilities are clear and correctly reflected in your customs declaration.

3. Incorrect Customs Procedure Codes (CPC)

Choosing the wrong CPC can cause unexpected tax liabilities or problems if goods are meant to be re-exported, repaired or stored temporarily.

‍How Powercargo helps: We apply the correct CPC every time, based on your specific trade scenario, making sure your goods are declared under the right procedure from the start.

4. Mishandled Transit Documents (T1/T2)

For EU movements under transit, T1 and T2 documents must be opened and closed properly. If they aren’t, customs authorities can follow up months later with fines or unpaid duty claims.

‍How Powercargo helps: We raise and monitor all transit documentation, ensuring each one is discharged correctly at the destination and that proof is recorded.

5. Poor Pre-Departure Planning

Customs issues often start before the shipment leaves, especially when documents aren’t ready or drivers don’t have the correct details with them.

‍How Powercargo helps: Our team pre-checks every shipment, co-ordinates with hauliers, and ensures everything is ready before collection, reducing the risk of hold-ups at ports or inland clearance depots.

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How You Benefit by Letting Powercargo Handle It All

When you trust us to manage both your freight and your customs clearance, you get:

One point of contact: We handle the entire process, so you’re not chasing different providers for updates
Fewer delays: We catch errors early, before they cost you time or money
Clear communication: We keep you informed every step of the way, including when customs releases your goods
Fully compliant declarations: We understand your business, your goods and the requirements - and we file everything correctly, first time.

We don’t just move your freight. We make sure it clears customs efficiently, every time.

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Stay in Control Without Stress

You’ve trusted us with your shipments - now let us take full control of the customs process too. Whether you’re moving groupage, full truckloads or time-sensitive goods, we’ll keep everything compliant, smooth and on schedule.

Avoid the delays.

Avoid the penalties.

Let Powercargo take care of it all.

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