When shipping internationally, many customers ask:

“Why is my EMS parcel stuck in customs, and why can't the sender help?”

The answer depends on the shipping method.

■ EMS (Postal Service)

EMS is handled by postal systems.

Flow:

Japan Post → Airline → Destination Country → Local Post → Customs

In Europe, EMS is handled by each country’s postal service and customs.

For example:

France → La Poste / Chronopost + customs
Germany → Deutsche Post / DHL + customs
Italy → Poste Italiane + customs
Spain → Correos + customs
United Kingdom → Royal Mail / Parcelforce Worldwide + customs

This is not specific to one country.
This is how ALL European postal systems operate.

This means:

• Multiple organizations are involved
• Each country has its own customs rules
• The sender cannot control or access these systems

Once the parcel arrives in your country:

• The sender CANNOT contact customs
• The sender CANNOT speed up the process
• The sender CANNOT complete procedures on your behalf

Only the recipient can act.

This is NOT optional.
This is the standard international postal system.

■ FedEx (Courier Service)

FedEx is completely different.

Everything is handled by one company:
FedEx

Flow:

Sender → FedEx → Customs → Delivery

Key differences:

• FedEx acts as a customs broker
• FedEx can contact the recipient directly
• FedEx can request documents and handle clearance
• FedEx actively follows up until delivery

This is why FedEx shipments are usually faster and smoother.

■ Simple Comparison

EMS:

• Multiple organizations involved
• No control after arrival
• Recipient must handle everything

FedEx:

• Single company handles everything
• Active support and follow-up
• Faster customs clearance

■ Important Conclusion

If your EMS parcel is stuck in customs:

→ This is NORMAL
→ This is NOT the sender’s responsibility
→ ONLY the recipient can resolve it

This is not a shipping problem.
This is a customs process in your country.

If you want smoother delivery:

→ Choose FedEx next time