“Your shipment has been selected for a customs examination.”
If you import goods into the US, this is probably one of the last messages you want to see. But here‘s the truth — getting inspected isn’t the end of the world. Not knowing what happens next is the real problem.
The customs enforcement environment in 2026 looks very different from even two years ago. Inspections have shifted from “random checks” to “data-driven targeting”. More shipments are getting pulled for exams. But if you know what to expect, most inspections go smoothly.
Here‘s what actually happens when customs selects your shipment — and what you need to do about it.
Why Did Your Shipment Get Selected?
In 2026, CBP doesn’t rely mainly on random checks anymore. They use the Automated Targeting System (ATS) , which integrates machine learning models trained on historical seizures, audit results, and global trade data. Basically, the system flags shipments based on risk profiles.
The most common triggers include:
Inconsistent declaration data — information doesn‘t match across invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading
Suspiciously low declared value — the system compares against average prices for similar goods
Vague product descriptions— generic terms like “parts” or “daily necessities”
Wrong HS code — incorrect classification triggers system alerts
CBP now uses a “document review first, physical exam second” approach. When cargo arrives, the system cross-checks all declaration documents. Only if documents fail review does it escalate to a physical exam.
What Do the Different Hold Codes Mean?
When your cargo gets held, the system shows a code starting with “H.” Here are the most common ones in 2026:
7H – X-Ray Scan (Non-Intrusive Inspection)
This is the easiest one. CBP uses X-ray or VACIS to scan the container for hidden compartments, contraband, and density anomalies. Usually takes hours to two days. If the scan looks normal, your cargo releases quickly. But if density doesn‘t match the declaration, it can escalate to a 1H physical exam.
1H – Physical Inspection
CBP moves the container to an exam station (CES), unloads it, and checks every item against the declaration — product name, quantity, value, brand, and counterfeits. Usually takes 3 to 7 days. If everything matches, you’re done.
5H – Document Deep Review (The Big One)
This is the most talked-about exam in 2026. 5H is run by CBP‘s new Fast Document Review team. The logic is “review documents first, decide on physical exam second”. Customs checks invoices, packing lists, manifests, bills of lading, HS codes, declared value, importer qualifications, bond validity — everything. If they find problems, it escalates to a physical exam. Once triggered, 5H can take one to two weeks or longer.
9H – Invalid Consignee Hold
9H doesn‘t check your cargo — it checks the “who”. It triggers when CBP finds problems with the consignee’s information — like the company not being in commercial databases, unregistered status, unverifiable EIN, or missing import permits. Release time depends entirely on how fast you fix the issues. This is the least controllable exam type in US imports.
The Inspection Process: From Notice to Release
Step 1: System flags your shipment
Cargo arrives. The ATS system runs a risk score on your declaration data. If flagged, a hold code is generated.
Step 2: Document review (5H mode)
In 5H mode, customs reviews all documents first. If everything checks out, cargo may release without a physical exam. If problems are found, it escalates.
Step 3: Physical exam (1H mode)
If a physical exam is required, the container is moved to an exam station. Officers open it and check every item against the declaration.
Step 4: Release or further action
All clear → release (code changes to I/C)
Minor issues → possible duty adjustment or amendment
Serious issues → cargo may be held, returned, or destroyed
How Much Will an Inspection Cost?
Inspections add costs, and these typically fall on the importer:
Trucking fee: moving the container from the terminal to the exam site — typically $400 to $800
Storage/demurrage: while the container sits at the terminal during inspection — $100 to $350 per day
Unloading and reloading: labor costs
If PGA agency testing is involved (CPSC, FDA, etc.): testing can take weeks and costs more
Late ISF filing penalties: up to $5,000
Key point: If your cargo is clean, these are compliance costs. If problems are found, add fines and back duties on top.
What can you do to reduce the trouble?
First, make sure your declarations are accurate and complete.
Use specific product descriptions. Match HS codes to the actual goods. Keep invoices and packing lists consistent. Customs enforcement in 2026 has become a “data discipline”. The quality of your declaration data directly determines whether your cargo gets flagged.
Second, check your IOR and bond status.
Make sure your US importer of record (IOR) has valid, verifiable information. Make sure your bond is active. 9H exams specifically target entities with compliance issues.
Third, for sensitive categories, get certifications ready in advance.
Battery-powered products, children‘s items, food, cosmetics — these need CPSC, FDA, and other agency certifications. CPSC eFiling has been mandatory since July 8, 2026.
Add WhatsApp to get free assistance with supplier qualification reviews.
Expert Contributor
Colton
CEO & Founder of Presou
Colton is a veteran in the logistics industry with over 10 years of experience. He leads Presou and its subsidiary Shenzhen Dayuanjun, focusing exclusively on heavy cargo solutions (>200kg/2CBM) across major Chinese ports to the USA, UAE, and Nigeria.
US Customs Inspection: What Happens When Your Shipment Gets Selected?
Table of Contents
“Your shipment has been selected for a customs examination.”
If you import goods into the US, this is probably one of the last messages you want to see. But here‘s the truth — getting inspected isn’t the end of the world. Not knowing what happens next is the real problem.
The customs enforcement environment in 2026 looks very different from even two years ago. Inspections have shifted from “random checks” to “data-driven targeting”. More shipments are getting pulled for exams. But if you know what to expect, most inspections go smoothly.
Here‘s what actually happens when customs selects your shipment — and what you need to do about it.
Why Did Your Shipment Get Selected?
In 2026, CBP doesn’t rely mainly on random checks anymore. They use the Automated Targeting System (ATS) , which integrates machine learning models trained on historical seizures, audit results, and global trade data. Basically, the system flags shipments based on risk profiles.
The most common triggers include:
Inconsistent declaration data — information doesn‘t match across invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading
Suspiciously low declared value — the system compares against average prices for similar goods
Vague product descriptions — generic terms like “parts” or “daily necessities”
Wrong HS code — incorrect classification triggers system alerts
Importer qualification issues — incomplete IOR information, expired bond, unverifiable EIN
CBP now uses a “document review first, physical exam second” approach. When cargo arrives, the system cross-checks all declaration documents. Only if documents fail review does it escalate to a physical exam.
What Do the Different Hold Codes Mean?
When your cargo gets held, the system shows a code starting with “H.” Here are the most common ones in 2026:
7H – X-Ray Scan (Non-Intrusive Inspection)
This is the easiest one. CBP uses X-ray or VACIS to scan the container for hidden compartments, contraband, and density anomalies. Usually takes hours to two days. If the scan looks normal, your cargo releases quickly. But if density doesn‘t match the declaration, it can escalate to a 1H physical exam.
1H – Physical Inspection
CBP moves the container to an exam station (CES), unloads it, and checks every item against the declaration — product name, quantity, value, brand, and counterfeits. Usually takes 3 to 7 days. If everything matches, you’re done.
5H – Document Deep Review (The Big One)
This is the most talked-about exam in 2026. 5H is run by CBP‘s new Fast Document Review team. The logic is “review documents first, decide on physical exam second” . Customs checks invoices, packing lists, manifests, bills of lading, HS codes, declared value, importer qualifications, bond validity — everything. If they find problems, it escalates to a physical exam. Once triggered, 5H can take one to two weeks or longer.
9H – Invalid Consignee Hold
9H doesn‘t check your cargo — it checks the “who” . It triggers when CBP finds problems with the consignee’s information — like the company not being in commercial databases, unregistered status, unverifiable EIN, or missing import permits. Release time depends entirely on how fast you fix the issues. This is the least controllable exam type in US imports.
The Inspection Process: From Notice to Release
Step 1: System flags your shipment
Cargo arrives. The ATS system runs a risk score on your declaration data. If flagged, a hold code is generated.
Step 2: Document review (5H mode)
In 5H mode, customs reviews all documents first. If everything checks out, cargo may release without a physical exam. If problems are found, it escalates.
Step 3: Physical exam (1H mode)
If a physical exam is required, the container is moved to an exam station. Officers open it and check every item against the declaration.
Step 4: Release or further action
All clear → release (code changes to I/C)
Minor issues → possible duty adjustment or amendment
Serious issues → cargo may be held, returned, or destroyed
How Much Will an Inspection Cost?
Inspections add costs, and these typically fall on the importer:
Trucking fee: moving the container from the terminal to the exam site — typically $400 to $800
Storage/demurrage: while the container sits at the terminal during inspection — $100 to $350 per day
Unloading and reloading: labor costs
If PGA agency testing is involved (CPSC, FDA, etc.): testing can take weeks and costs more
Late ISF filing penalties: up to $5,000
Key point: If your cargo is clean, these are compliance costs. If problems are found, add fines and back duties on top.
What can you do to reduce the trouble?
First, make sure your declarations are accurate and complete.
Use specific product descriptions. Match HS codes to the actual goods. Keep invoices and packing lists consistent. Customs enforcement in 2026 has become a “data discipline” . The quality of your declaration data directly determines whether your cargo gets flagged.
Second, check your IOR and bond status.
Make sure your US importer of record (IOR) has valid, verifiable information. Make sure your bond is active. 9H exams specifically target entities with compliance issues.
Third, for sensitive categories, get certifications ready in advance.
Battery-powered products, children‘s items, food, cosmetics — these need CPSC, FDA, and other agency certifications. CPSC eFiling has been mandatory since July 8, 2026.
For More on Shipping from China to the USA
Check out our related guides:
Got questions about US customs inspections? Contact us
Add WhatsApp to get free assistance with supplier qualification reviews.
Colton
CEO & Founder of PresouColton is a veteran in the logistics industry with over 10 years of experience. He leads Presou and its subsidiary Shenzhen Dayuanjun, focusing exclusively on heavy cargo solutions (>200kg/2CBM) across major Chinese ports to the USA, UAE, and Nigeria.
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