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Cincinnati Hub
 

Something has definitely changed in terms of getting goods through Cincinnati customs. Before, once something arrived at Cincinnati it was fine. It was NY or LA that automatically meant an inspection and seizure. Now over the past 3 weeks I have had 3 packaged (that were sent to 3 different people at 3 different addresses) seized. I know one thing for certain that the process starts in Hong Kong. I had a package arrive that was in two pieces and only one piece made it through. It had a large "C" sticker on it, indicating to me that it was to receive special attention from customs.

Those who are in the know: Is this now a permanent thing? Has this happened before? Any advise would be appreciated.

...All 3 of my packages are stuck in customs. Seems like it is that time of the year again.

Or it could easily be a supplier issue, shipping agent issue, use of bad return addresses, suspicious invoices, etc that bring the unwanted attention.

Thanks for the update. Glad to know I'm not in this boat alone. I definitely feel like the issue begins in HK. Some how are packages are being tagged before being sent.

This happens once every year. I have not had anything seized, but I have had some delays (non-VERO). Usually lasts for 10 days or so, from what I remember.

Who is your carrier. No issues with the one I am using.......

past 3 months ive been having my suppliers ship through the Cincy hub to past customs and then redirect the package to my place since the west coast seems like I have a 50% success rate in passing customs.

DHL. You?

DHL as well

Thanks for the information. So, based on what JW just said does anyone know a start date to this nonsense so we can chart 10 days in advance and wait to order until then? Also, when was the first time you noticed things being held up? I first noticed it Friday the 8th. Any information would help us out.

That's absolutely insane. When did you start hitting the 50% mark?

You're not the only one my friend...I've got 5 packages seized this week in Cincinnati:mad2: Cincinnati hub used to be the only one without problems not this! My supplier told me this time is seized month!

Yep. I have now received several messages to hold off on paying for stuff until it is safe to do so.

There is no official start or end date that I am aware of. I also want to state that I DO NOT have any "inside" information on customs. However, every year in June (the exact time varies) Cincinatti becomes a problem. Lots of people have packages seized and then a couple of weeks later there is usually a news article describing a "crackdown" on counterfeit merchandise.

During this time, a lot of legitimate packages are delayed for several days, as they await a US Customs inspection.

In the past, after 2-3 weeks, everything returns to normal.

Will that hold true this time? I don't know - I don't have a crystal ball. However, I **BELIEVE** it will hold true, based on what has happened in the past and due to the fact that they do not have the manpower to constantly inspect EVERYTHING coming through.

Quick questions, Do your Suppliers use a DHL Tracking Number OR Shipper's References?
Also do your suppliers put a Packing slip on the boxes? Maybe that has something to do with inspections and seizers.

They use a tracking number and yes I believe most have slips on the boxes. Why? How would this have something to do with it?

Exactly! I don't think the supplier have control on the sticker. The DHL Shipping agent put them stickers not the supplier!

Actually, customs can inspect any package for any reason they like. If the paperwork looks suspicious they CAN inspect the package.

I believe, however, that this is a part of the yearly crackdown - where many more packages than normal are opened.

Also, and this is not a response to MarysMan78, here is something else to consider.

Customs will never be able to open every incoming package, however, they can certainly use technology to catch more of the illegal stuff coming in.

If you are currently making your living by importing this stuff, you MIGHT want to consider building something legitimate, as this type of thing will become more and more difficult over time.

got 1 today...

10 Clearance delay CINCINNATI HUB, OH - USA 05:15

3 more are coming there tomorrow.... Im on the boat now...

I've had one make it though this week (the rest have been toast), but all my suppliers are saying they will inform me when all is clear.

4 packages currently stuck in Cincy....presumably seized but I continue to hold my breath and cross my fingers.....

So what will you do when it get toast. Just sit there and wait for the letter????