In 2025, customs clearance in Dubai and the UAE is more streamlined than ever thanks to platforms like Mirsal 2, the introduction of 12-digit HS codes, and digital trade documentation. However, many businesses—especially first-time importers—still make avoidable mistakes that lead to shipping delays, fines, or even shipment confiscation.

Whether you’re a new importer, an exporter expanding into the UAE, or a logistics consultant managing freight for others, this guide is essential. We’ll go through the top customs clearance mistakes businesses make and how you can avoid them.

1. Using Incorrect HS Codes

The UAE transitioned to the 12-digit Harmonized System (HS) code structure in 2025. Submitting outdated 8-digit codes is a guaranteed way to delay clearance.

What’s the risk?
Incorrect HS codes lead to misclassification, wrong duty assessments, and, in some cases, flagging of your shipment for re-evaluation.

How to avoid it:

• Use the Dubai Customs online tariff portal to verify updated HS codes.

• Work with a certified Dubai customs agent or freight forwarder to ensure accurate classification.

2. Under-declaring Invoice Values

Some companies try to reduce their customs duties by under-reporting the Commercial Invoice value. This is not only unethical but also illegal.

What’s the risk?
Dubai Customs may impose fines, duty reassessments, and even blacklist your business for repeated offenses. Shipments can be seized without refund.

How to avoid it:

• Always declare the true CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.

• Maintain all original invoices and bank payment slips in case of audit.

3. Submitting Incomplete Documentation

Importing goods into the UAE requires specific paperwork. If your Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, or Certificate of Origin is missing or inconsistent, clearance is delayed.

What’s the risk?
You’ll be asked to re-submit or correct documents, which could mean storage charges at the port and late delivery.

How to avoid it:

• Keep a checklist:

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Bill of Lading or Airway Bill

  • Certificate of Origin

  • Delivery Order

  • 12-digit HS Code

  • Mirsal 2 declaration

  • Trade license copy

You can download our C4 Customs Documentation Checklist at c4customs.co.

4. Choosing the Wrong Declaration Type (Especially in Free Zones)

When clearing goods from JAFZA, DAFZA, or KIZAD, it’s important to select the right declaration type (e.g., Free Zone to Local, Free Zone to GCC, Free Zone to Free Zone).

What’s the risk?
Wrong declarations can lead to unpaid duties, inspection holds, and documentation rejections.

How to avoid it:

• Make sure your freight agent is experienced with UAE Free Zone logistics.

• Check with your customs consultant before final submission.

5. Ignoring Mirsal 2 Notifications

Mirsal 2 is Dubai Customs’ centralized platform for electronic declarations. Notifications from Mirsal 2 are crucial for monitoring shipment status and issues.

What’s the risk?
Ignoring updates or rejection alerts can delay clearance by days or even weeks.

How to avoid it:

• Assign someone in your team to monitor Mirsal 2 dashboard daily.

• Set up email notifications for new updates from customs.

6. Attempting to Import Banned or Restricted Goods

Certain items—like right-hand drive vehicles, drones, specific chemicals, and counterfeit products—are restricted or banned in the UAE.

What’s the risk?
Customs will seize the shipment, and in some cases, you could face legal action or permanent blacklisting.

How to avoid it:

• Refer to the official banned/restricted list provided by Dubai Customs.

• If unsure, speak to a customs agent in Dubai before purchasing the goods.

7. Overlooking Duty Calculations

In most cases, customs duty in Dubai is 5% of the CIF value. However, duty exemptions are available for certain products like books, some food items, and re-exported goods.

What’s the risk?
You may overpay duties or miss exemptions you qualify for.

How to avoid it:

• Use Dubai Customs’ duty calculator

• Ask your customs agent to help claim duty exemptions for qualifying goods.

8. Ignoring Port-Specific Requirements (e.g., Jebel Ali Port)

Each port—such as Jebel Ali, Khalifa Port, or Port Rashid—has slightly different document requirements and timelines for submission.

What’s the risk?
Mistiming your clearance can result in daily storage penalties or missed delivery windows.

How to avoid it:

• Research port-specific rules.

• Partner with a clearance company like C4 Customs that operates across all UAE ports.

Avoiding these mistakes not only saves time and money but builds your credibility with customs authorities and logistics partners.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to work with a qualified Dubai customs agent like C4 Customs, who can handle the entire clearance process professionally—from documentation to inspection handling.

Conclusion

The customs clearance process in Dubai and the UAE is efficient—but only if you follow the rules correctly. Small missteps in documentation, declaration, or duty payment can result in shipment delays, added costs, or customs investigations.

At C4 Customs, we help clients navigate UAE import/export rules with 100% compliance and fast processing through Mirsal 2. Whether you’re importing a container of goods or just one vehicle, our team ensures everything goes smoothly—from Free Zone to Mainland logistics.

Need Expert Help?

Explore our full list of services at www.c4customs.co, or contact us for a consultation.