Customs Release

Customs Release refers to the administrative act by which customs, after the completion of necessary procedures such as declaration, inspection, and taxation, permits imported or exported goods, means of transport, or articles to enter or leave the customs territory in accordance with the law. This term is commonly used in import and export declaration, international logistics, and trade settlement. It indicates that the goods have obtained customs permission and may circulate freely or be shipped. Usage scenarios include: the declaration form showing 'Released', notice of cargo pickup or loading, and documents required by letters of credit (e.g., release note). Note: Release does not mean exemption from duties or inspection; customs duties and VAT may still be payable. After release, if goods need to be transshipped or stored, regulatory requirements must be observed. It differs from 'Customs Clearance', which is the entire process, while release is the final step. It also differs from 'Customs Closure', which means customs ends its supervision; goods may still be under supervision after release. Foreign trade practitioners should pay attention to the release time to avoid demurrage charges and ensure that release documents are consistent with the contract.