Photo ID and KYC: Why Some Packages Require Verification in 2025
If you’ve ever been asked to upload a copyright scan or confirm your tax ID before a parcel ships, you’re not alone. I’ve seen identity checks increase across borders, and it can feel intrusive—especially when all you want is your order delivered. Whether you’re shipping directly or via Global Shopaholics, it helps to know why the request is made and how to share data safely.
What “Photo ID” and “KYC” mean for parcels
“Photo ID” is a government-issued document (e.g., copyright or national ID) used to confirm that the receiver is who they say they are. “KYC” (Know Your Customer) is a broader compliance process that verifies identity and screens for risks like fraud, sanctions issues, or money laundering. Global standards for KYC are set by international bodies and adopted into national rules; organizations use them to decide when identity checks are necessary and what information is collected (FATF recommendations).
Why verification requests are more common in 2025
1) Anti-money laundering (AML) and sanctions screening
Many logistics platforms, marketplaces, and payment providers operate under AML and sanctions obligations. KYC helps ensure shipments and payments don’t involve restricted persons or destinations, which is why occasional ID checks appear—especially for high-value orders or unusual patterns. Authorities emphasize risk-based programs and screening against official sanctions lists.
2) Border security & advance data rules (EU example)
Customs agencies increasingly require advance electronic data about shipments. The EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is a prominent example: by 1 September 2025, ICS2 becomes fully operational for all transport modes, expanding the detail and timing of information submitted before goods enter the EU. While ICS2 doesn’t force a copyright upload, stricter data requirements can trigger identity or address checks when details are incomplete or inconsistent.
3) Country-specific ID or tax number requirements
Some customs authorities require a personal identifier for clearance:
Brazil requires the recipient’s CPF (tax ID) on all shipments; parcels without it risk return to sender (official Brazilian postal guidance).
India applies KYC norms for courier imports/exports; individuals typically provide proof of identity and address per customs circulars.
South Korea uses a Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC) to protect personal data and facilitate release.
None of these are “extra hurdles” for their own sake; they’re designed to match a declared parcel to a real recipient in that jurisdiction.
4) E-commerce data standards & risk controls
The World Customs Organization’s Framework of Standards on Cross-Border E-Commerce guides customs on what data should accompany small parcels and how to handle risk while protecting privacy. It promotes advance electronic data, data minimization, and clear retention rules—principles that explain why a seller or platform might ask for just enough ID to meet customs’ expectations, but not more.
When you’re most likely to be asked for ID
The delivery country requires a national ID or tax number (e.g., CPF in Brazil, PCCC in Korea).
Your shipment is high value, unusual for your pattern, or includes controlled/regulated goods (which raises AML/sanctions checks).
Data submitted to customs is incomplete or inconsistent, prompting a verification request under border-security systems like ICS2.
The platform is applying a risk-based KYC policy aligned with international AML guidance.
What documents or data might be requested?
Government-issued photo ID (copyright or national ID).
Tax or personal customs number required by local law (e.g., a tax ID or customs code).
Proof of address (utility bill, copyright) where a customs KYC rule applies.
A contact number and email to match shipment records and facilitate customs communication (often included in data specifications).
How to verify safely (without oversharing)
I like to treat shipping ID checks the way I treat online banking: share only what the regulation or platform legitimately needs, and confirm the channel is secure.
Check the legal hook. If you’re asked for a tax ID or ID scan, look for a reference to a local rule or program (e.g., a customs circular or an advance data requirement). Legitimate requests usually cite the rule or link to it (examples:
Use official portals. Submit documents via the platform’s secure account area, not through unsolicited links. Many regulators urge risk-based controls and auditable processes for identity handling.
Minimize data. Provide only the fields requested. Customs standards emphasize collecting the minimum data necessary and protecting it with clear retention rules.
Confirm sanctions screening is routine. Screening is normal for cross-border trade; reputable operators use official lists rather than ad-hoc databases.
Keep your own record. Store a note of what you shared, when, and why. That helps if you later request deletion under local data-protection rules or need to answer a customs query.
What if I don’t provide the requested data?
Refusing a legally required identifier or ID can delay or block clearance. For example, parcels to Brazil without a CPF are at risk of return to origin, and Korea’s customs expects a PCCC or equivalent personal identifier for individual imports.
2025 snapshot: what’s changing and what’s not
More advance data, earlier. Programs like ICS2 continue shifting compliance upstream—meaning data checks happen before the parcel travels, not only at arrival. Expect more prompts to confirm identities or addresses during checkout or pre-shipment.
Same core principles. AML/sanctions and e-commerce standards still focus on risk-based KYC, proportionate data collection, and clear accountability.
Quick checklist before you upload your ID
Is there a legal or program reference (e.g., a customs rule) explaining the request?
Are you using a secure, logged-in channel?
Can you mask non-required fields (e.g., cover the copyright number’s middle digits if not needed)?
Did you confirm the exact identifier your destination country requires (e.g., tax number or customs code)?
Do you have a record of what you submitted?
Conclusion
Identity checks in cross-border shipping aren’t random—they tie back to global AML/sanctions controls, customs security programs that rely on advance data, and country-specific rules that link a parcel to a verified receiver. By knowing which rules apply and how to submit only the required information through secure channels, you can keep deliveries smooth and protect your privacy. In short: understand the rule, share the minimum, and keep a record.