Hi Gbenga,

🔍 Common reasons why packages are detained
Routine customs inspection or review: When packages enter and exit the country, customs will conduct random inspections based on a certain proportion or based on risk parameters. This may be because the declared information (such as product name, quantity, value, etc.) is not clear enough or has questions and requires further verification; it may also involve brand or trademark infringement issues, and the customs will review the brand authorization documents; or the items are sensitive or controlled Categories, such as products with batteries, liquids, powders, food, drugs, etc.

Lack of necessary documents or information: If the declared value of the package does not match the actual value, the customs system has an early warning function. Once the declared value exceeds the set range, the package is easily detained. Additionally, if export control licenses are involved, the return of certain items may require a corresponding license.

The processing status of the logistics company: The expression "detained by the Import and Export Administration" may sometimes just be the internal status displayed by the logistics company, which means that the package is waiting for customs clearance procedures or document review.

📞 Seller notification and communication
Regarding whether the seller will be notified: If the detention is due to customs or regulatory reasons, the official agency is likely to notify the shipper (i.e. the seller in China) through the carrier and request additional information or documents. By proactively contacting sellers, you can ensure they are informed and take action in a timely manner, as sellers are often more aware of the specifics of the goods and are responsible for communicating with logistics parties or customs in China.

📝 Next steps and return process
Contact the seller: This is the most important and first step. Please contact the Chinese seller through eBay's on-site messaging system to inform them of the current status of the package. All conversation records can be provided to eBay customer service as evidence in the event of a dispute.

Understand the international return process: The international return process usually involves the following steps: you submit a return request on eBay; the seller accepts the return and provides return labels and instructions; you send the item; when the package enters China, it needs to complete customs clearance procedures; After the seller confirms receipt of the returned items, a refund will be processed for you. The "detention" you encounter occurs during the Chinese entry customs clearance process.

Check eBay's return policy: eBay stipulates that after a seller accepts a return, you need to receive a refund within 6 working days after the return tracking information shows that it has been delivered. Although packages are now being withheld, keeping tracking vouchers is very important for subsequent disputes.

Wait patiently: Customs inspection or document review takes a certain amount of time, so please be patient. If the detention is due to export control issues, processing time may be longer.

💎 Summary
In general, packages showing "detained by the Import and Export Administration" are mostly normal regulatory processes and can often be resolved through supplementary documents or clarification of information. Proactively contacting sellers is key to driving issues to resolution.