Customs clearance involves four main stages: pre-clearance, clearance at the border, examination of goods, and post-clearance procedures. Incoterms are essential standards for international trade that define responsibilities of importers and exporters to avoid misunderstandings. When importing or exporting, working with a freight forwarder who has relationships with customs agencies worldwide can help ensure timely and cost-effective clearance. Proper documentation is also important for customs to clear shipments. Certain goods like dual-use, agricultural, and excisable products are subject to government regulations and import quotas. Importers are generally responsible for paying applicable import duties and taxes.