There has been an increase in unapproved items being shipped to Bermuda including Covid-19 test kits, the Customs Department has revealed.

Responding to questions about claimed delays in shipped items, a spokeswoman for the department issued an advisory that certain items being held up required government approval.

The spokeswoman confirmed that there had been an increase in undeclared items including Covid-19 test kits and unauthorised motorcycle upgrade kits.

“Imports of Covid test kits must be approved by the Health Department,” the spokeswoman said.

“Motorcycle upgrade kits require an import licence from the Transport Control Department.

“All import permits, approvals and licences should be submitted to customs at the time of declaration of the relevant goods.“

All properly declared goods are automatically released by the Customs Automated Processing System at the end of eight hours unless given early release or queried by a reviewing officer.

A CAPS identification number can be applied for via this Government webpage.

The spokeswoman added: “Importers who may be experiencing an apparent undue delay in the release of a shipment are encouraged to send an e-mail inquiry to customs@gov.bm including the relevant tracking information and Bermuda Customs declaration number.

“General inquiries may be sent to the same e-mail address.

“Customs will respond promptly, and not later than the end of the next business day.”