How long does it normally take? I can see on the Swiss post site they had received my item a week ago and it's still the same status - "Postal customs clearance process underway".

Normally 2-3 days max in my experience with packages from US, UK or Asia... But also depends on what is being shipped.

Items that have environmental implications are often scrutinized (e.g. paint, cleaning products etc.)

Best bet is to call them or visit the post office in person... Email is not ideal.

Thanks, Loyaliser.
It's actually a mobile from eBay (sent from Asia). You're saying I can go to any post office and inquire there?? On the Swiss post tracking page it says it's being processed by "CH-8010 Zürich 1".

How frustrating! Let us know how it turns out...and how much duty you're charged.

Just noticed it's changed on their site.
What should it mean?

You will get it soon, a bill may follow.

Got it today with a stamp "Abgabefrei"

Well done!

Most likely they're working off a huge back-log because of all the online-orders overseas with the current exchange rate..

We got our stuff from the US within a day or two from when customs cleared it.

This is typical swiss service level.
I am ordering many packages from abroad, most delays are on ZOLL.
Sometimes package can be stuck there for WEEKS!
Complaining and asking for investigation brings nothing.
Swiss post clearly told me "use a different service, if you think we are slow".
So they don't give a damn about their reputation, they are just lazy and slow.

Not to mention, most my packages are under $100 value, and I pay sometimes up to $50 for zoll just "having a peak" into my package.
Normally the customs tax is below 10CHF, but they add on top of that fees for looking into it, which are times higher.

In most civilised places post works WAY better and faster.

Welcome to the forum.

Abgabefrei normally for purchases under CHF65 - many threads on this including:

Anne Summers + Swiss Postal MWSt tax charge!

Welcome to the forum. Maybe the first thing to do is uncover the difference between Post and Zoll.

I left the charger for my camera at my parent's in America - my mom posted it a month ago and i still haven't received it. She checked with the US post and they say the status is in customs. Its a used item - no real value - but now I can't use my camera!! *sigh* - just needed to vent

You are aware that the Swiss Post does the customs clearance and billing on behalf of the Zoll?

To OP: To speed up things your packages should be send with two invoices which are accessible w/o opening your packages. It should clearly state the paid value of all goods (and the paid tax as it will lower the taxable value!) including shipping costs and if needed the relevant tariff numbers. Opening packages will delay the processing and may result in extra charges ("Inspection, value evaluation and storage"). All Post import fees and how the import tax is calculated.

If you have the USPS tracking number you can check the status for yourself on the Swiss Post website. Or you may call the Swiss Post customs people 0848 639 639.