Assuming your shipment is eligible for release, the preparation of customs entry documents and the submission of a release request do not take long (in most cases, within an hour). What is impossible to predict is the response (and response time) of Customs itself.

Typical Customs response times:

• 90% released instantly or within 2-3 hours (depending on Customs EDI processing times)
• 10% delayed for additional information or examination (examination referrals can take 1-2 business days)

Border Bee offers an e-mail notification system for importers so they will be alerted as soon as their shipment is released.