| Exam | What happens | Typical impact |
|---|---|---|
| Non-intrusive (X-ray / VACIS) | Container scanned without opening | A few days; scan fee and drayage |
| Tailgate | Doors opened, cargo at the rear inspected | Several days; handling fees |
| Intensive | Container moved to an exam station and partly or fully unloaded | One to several weeks; devanning, storage, drayage — often the most expensive |
Exam costs are paid by the importer — and under DDP, by the seller side.
What raises exam risk
- Vague descriptions or inconsistent data across ISF, invoice and entry.
- New importers, new suppliers, new HTS codes.
- Products with transshipment or forced-labour concerns.
- Agency-regulated goods (food, cosmetics, children's products).
How to lower it
- Specific descriptions and consistent HTS codes.
- Accurate ISF with the real manufacturer and stuffing location.
- Strong origin and supply-chain documentation — see compliance.
- Include an exam allowance in DDP pricing.