What is customs clearance?
Customs clearance is the process of declaring goods to customs, paying any duties and obtaining release so the cargo can leave the port or airport. Ferry Global Logistics is licensed in Abu Dhabi to provide customs clearance services for imports and exports, including document checks and coordination with onward delivery.
What the service covers
Import clearance
Declaration, duty payment and release for sea, air and land shipments arriving in the UAE.
Export clearance
Export declarations and supporting documents for outgoing cargo.
Document review
We check invoices, packing lists and HS classification before the cargo arrives to avoid holds.
Clearance plus delivery
Once released, cargo can go straight to your warehouse or site by truck.
How it works
- 1
Send documents
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin and any permits.
- 2
Classification and review
HS codes and values are checked and any missing permits are flagged early.
- 3
Declaration
The declaration is submitted and duties and fees are settled.
- 4
Release and collection
On release, collection and delivery are arranged.
Before you book: what to plan for
- Some goods (food, medical, chemicals, telecoms, controlled items) need permits from other authorities before customs will release them.
- Mismatched values or descriptions between invoice and packing list are a common cause of holds.
- Start clearance before the vessel or flight arrives to protect port free-time.
Industries that use this service
Where we provide customs clearance
Across all seven emirates, from our licensed office in MBZ City, Abu Dhabi.
Frequently asked questions
What documents are needed for customs clearance in the UAE?
Typically a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill and certificate of origin. Certain goods also need permits from the relevant authority before release.
Can you clear goods that someone else shipped?
Yes. You can use us for clearance and delivery only, even if the freight was booked by your supplier or another forwarder.
Can clearance be started before the cargo arrives?
Yes, and it is recommended. Sharing documents early lets us spot problems before port storage and container charges start to build.