The customs clearance process in Singapore generally takes 1 to 5 working days.

Breakdown of estimated processing times:

• Normal customs clearance: 1 business days
• Pre-Arrival Processing (PAP): 1-2 business days
• Express clearance: Same day

In extreme cases even where all documents have been correctly presented for export of goods under the Strategic Trade Scheme clearance may take several days while Singapore Customs performs routines checks.

The commercial invoice is a critical document.

It contains all the financial conditions of the buyer-seller agreement, including the shipping terms required for customs clearance.

In some cases, the importer can use a pro-forma invoice instead of a commercial invoice as an official document.

Customs officials utilise the information on the invoice to assess the taxes and duties applicable to your cargo.

The packing list is part of the shipping documentation and contains precise information about the products.

The freight forwarders will utilize this list to inspect and trace every item in your shipment as it comprises the weight, size, safety measures, and packaging for the cargo.

Exporters may sometimes integrate the above two documents into a single combined document called a CIPL (commercial invoice packing list).

The transport document may be either an Airwaybill for air freight, a Bill of Lading for ocean freight, a Consignment Note for an express shipment or parcel, or a Delivery Order for road freight, and is what the shipper and freight forwarder use to confirm receipt of goods for shipping.

Either the carrier or a freight forwarder will issue a bill of lading to you as the exporter.

This further guarantees the legal receipt of your cargo and contains precise information about the shipping destination, the products you are shipping, and how you wish them to be handled.

Controlled goods require proper authorisation (advance notification, licence or certificate approval) from Competent Authorities (CAs) before they may be imported into Singapore.

Alternatively you can check with TNETS Global in Singapore for more information on what licences may be required for your goods.

If the item is subject to control, you may check directly with TNETS Global on the licensing requirements.

Certain products need to be registered with a specific Singapore Government authority before import. This ensures they comply with Singapore safety and quality standards or fulfil other import obligations.

Examples include:

• Electrical and electronic equipment (SAFETY Mark) [Enterprise Singapore]
• Medical devices (Health Sciences Authority – HSA)
• Construction materials (Building and Construction Authority – BCA)
• Telecommunication equipment (Infocomm Media Development Authority – IMDA)

Product Testing and Certification:

Certain products in Singapore require testing by accredited laboratories to ensure they meet local standards.

Upon successful testing, a Certificate of Conformity may be issued by an accredited Singapore Certification Body. This serves as proof of compliance for customs clearance and market access.

Product Testing and Certification:

In some cases, authorities in Singapore may require an inspection of the product at its origin (overseas) before shipment to Singapore. This ensures the product aligns with the provided documentation and meets compliance requirements.

TNETS Global’s team in Singapore includes specialists who assist clients in navigating the product approval process, including liaising with approval bodies such as Enterprise Singapore and IMDA.

Product Inspection:

In some cases, the authorities might require an inspection of the product at its origin (overseas) before shipment to Singapore. This verifies the product matches the information provided and meets compliance requirements.

TNETS Global’s team in Singapore has a team of specialists who assist with navigating their way through the product approval process, including liaising with the approval bodies.

Goods and technology that meet the technical specifications described in the the Strategic Goods Control List are found in the Strategic Goods (Control) Order 2024..

The items are categorized as follows:

• nuclear materials, facilities and equipment;
• special materials and related equipment;
• materials processing;
• electronics;
• computers;
• telecommunications and information security;
• sensors and lasers;
• navigation and avionics;
• marine;
• aerospace and propulsion; and
• military items

If in doubt please check with TNETS Global for more guidance.

A Certificate of Origin (COO) states where the items originate, were processed or obtained from ensuring that the export or import is lawful and that export or import duties and taxes are correctly calculated.

The consulate or chamber of commerce can sometimes issue or certify this document. For claiming duty preferences, it’s usually the national customs body in the country of origin which issues the COO.

The exporter is responsible for delivering the certificate of origin following the rules and regulations of the destination country.

Working with experienced customs brokers makes international shipping easier.

Customs brokers are registered and licenced professionals who can assist with customs clearance and guarantee that you have the proper documents for your freight shipment.

Read more about certificates of origin and how TNETS Global can assist you with these here.

A purchase order is a formal declaration that you have received an order.

This document contains information about the transaction, including the parties involved, the products, and the transaction date.

Obtaining a Singapore Certificate of Origin (CO) can provide several valuable benefits to an exporter, especially when dealing with international trade transactions.

A Certificate of Origin is a document that certifies the origin of goods and is often required by customs authorities in the importing country to determine eligibility for preferential trade agreements, tariff reductions, and other trade-related benefits. Here’s why obtaining a Singapore Certificate of Origin can be advantageous for exporters:

1. Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs):

Many countries have established trade agreements with Singapore that offer preferential tariffs or trade benefits to goods originating from Singapore. These agreements aim to reduce or eliminate tariffs, thereby making Singapore-produced goods more competitive in those markets.

To avail of these benefits, exporters need to prove the origin of their goods through a Certificate of Origin.

2. Reduced Tariffs and Duties:

A Certificate of Origin can help exporters reduce or eliminate customs duties, taxes, and other fees imposed on their goods by the importing country. This can significantly improve the cost competitiveness of their products in international markets, potentially leading to increased sales and market penetration.

3. Market Access:

Some countries require a Certificate of Origin to be submitted alongside other import documentation. Without this document, goods might face delays at customs, leading to potential supply chain disruptions. Having a Singapore Certificate of Origin can help ensure smoother customs clearance, facilitating quicker access to target markets.

4. Enhanced Credibility and Trust:

A Certificate of Origin adds credibility to the claim that the goods being exported indeed originate from Singapore. This can be especially important in industries where product quality, safety, and compliance with regulations are crucial. Customers and importers are more likely to trust goods accompanied by proper documentation.

5. Conformity with International Regulations:

International regulations and trade agreements often require proper documentation to prove the origin of goods. Failing to provide a valid Certificate of Origin can lead to non-compliance and potential legal issues. Having the necessary documentation in place helps exporters adhere to these regulations.

6. Competitive Advantage:

Exporters with a Certificate of Origin may have a competitive advantage over those who do not possess one. This advantage is particularly relevant in markets where buyers prefer or require proof of origin for the products they purchase.

7. Risk Mitigation:

In case of disputes or audits related to the origin of goods, having a valid Certificate of Origin can serve as a critical piece of evidence to support the exporter’s claims. This can help mitigate potential legal or financial risks.

8. Access to Government Incentives:

Some governments offer incentives to exporters who can demonstrate the origin of their goods. These incentives may include financial support, grants, or other forms of assistance aimed at promoting international trade.

In conclusion, obtaining a Singapore Certificate of Origin can offer exporters significant advantages by ensuring compliance with trade agreements, reducing tariffs, and enhancing credibility in international markets. It plays a pivotal role in helping exporters tap into the benefits of preferential trade agreements, improve their competitiveness, and navigate complex international trade regulations more effectively.

The importer or the importer’s representative (cargo agent or customs broker) should submit an import declaration before goods arrival in order to expedite clearance.

Regardless of whether or not they are subject to customs duties, all imported goods must be declared.

Each declaration must indicate the specific number of products included in the shipment. The declaration must also include a detailed description of the goods, including their packaging, value, weight, dimensions, country of origin and final destination within Singapore.

If the goods were not declared prior to arrival then a customs declaration must be made with details of the goods.

Each declaration must indicate the specific number of products included in the shipment.

The declaration must also include a detailed description of the goods, including their packaging, value, weight, dimensions, country of origin and final destination within Singapore.

The Singapore Customs authority determines the amount of import duties and taxes based on several factors:

• HS Code: Used to classify the product type.
• Value of Goods: The value of goods, including freight and insurance costs, is assessed using the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) method to calculate duties and taxes and clear your shipment.
• Goods Description: The commercial invoice must include a clear description of the goods, their end-use, and the country of manufacture.
• Incoterms: The Incoterms specified on the commercial invoice outline the agreement between the sender and receiver regarding responsibility for shipping costs, including duties and taxes.

Pay duties and Goods and Services Tax (GST) to Singapore Customs. These payments are typically made using deduction by Interbank Giro (IBG) either held by the importer themselves on their own Singapore Customs account, or by their freight forwarder and then rebilled to the importer.

Once duties and GST are settled, the goods can be released from the port, airport or Free Trade Zone customs, and are cleared for circulation within Singapore.

Singapore Customs requires various declaration types for the import, export, and transshipment of goods to ensure compliance with regulations.

These declarations are categorized based on the nature of the transaction and the specific requirements involved.

Each declaration type serves a specific function and ensures that goods moving into, out of, or through Singapore comply with regulatory requirements.

It’s essential for traders to select the appropriate declaration type based on their specific transaction to facilitate smooth customs clearance.

Below is a comprehensive list of customs declaration types in Singapore and their respective uses.

These declarations are used when there is a need to account for and pay Customs Duties and / or Goods and Services Tax (GST) on goods.

• Duty & GST (DNG): For payment of both duty and GST on dutiable goods.
• Duty (DUT): For payment of duty only, applicable to dutiable goods where GST is exempted.
• GST (GST): For payment of GST only, applicable to non-dutiable goods or dutiable goods with duty exemption.
• Blanket (BKT): Covers multiple imports within a calendar month for pre-approved companies importing specific goods.

These declarations are used when goods are imported without immediate payment of duties and/or GST, often under specific schemes or for particular purposes.

• Approved Premises/Schemes (APS): For goods imported under approved premises or schemes where duties and GST are suspended.
• Temporary Consignment (TCE, TCS, TCR, TCO): For temporary importation of goods for purposes like exhibitions, repairs, or testing, with the intention of re-exporting.
• GST Relief and/or Duty Exemption (GTR): For goods eligible for GST relief and/or duty exemption under specific conditions.
• Re-export (REX): For goods imported for the purpose of re-exporting, without entering Singapore’s customs territory.
• Storage in Free Trade Zone (SFZ): For goods to be stored in a Free Trade Zone before re-export or local release.
• Shut-Out (SHO): For goods that were not exported as planned and are returned to storage.
• Destruction (DES): For goods imported with the intent of destruction within Singapore.

All goods imported into, exported from or transhipped via Singapore can only be moved through authorised piers and places, e.g. Free Trade Zones (FTZs), land checkpoints and other authorised piers and places.

The landing of goods at any other location is prohibited.

All goods may be imported, exported or transhipped via the following Free Trade Zones and land checkpoints:

Ocean Port Free Trade Zones

• Tanjong Pagar Terminal
• Keppel Terminal
• Pasir Panjang Terminal
• Brani Terminal
• Keppel Distripark
• Jurong Port
• Sembawang Wharves
• Tuas Port

Air Cargo Checkpoints

• Changi Airfreight Centre
• Airport Logistics Park of Singapore
• Air Cargo Express

Road Freight Checkpoints

• Tuas Checkpoint
• Woodlands Checkpoint

The following passenger terminals are not intended for the import, export and transhipment of goods.

Only personal effects accompanying incoming crew and passengers may be brought in via the following passenger terminals:

• SCC @ Harbourfront
• SCC @ Tanah Merah
• Marina South Pier
• West Coast Pier
• Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore

If you have personal effects to import via these ports, please contact TNETS Global using the form below and we will assist.

Certain goods may be imported, exported or transhipped via other authorised piers and places, subject to the further approval of the relevant operator (where applicable).

Please refer to the table below for the list of such authorised piers and places and the corresponding scope of goods that may be imported, exported or transhipped via the authorised piers and places:

For assistance with declaration of any of the goods detailed above, or goods through any of the ports listed above, contact TNETS Global using the form below and we will assist.

In addition to the above approved places of cargo release, certain cargo may also be allowed to be imported / exported via private waterfront locations on a one-time basis, subject to Customs’ approval, provided that the following criteria are met:

• The shipment involves cargo that cannot be handled by the port terminals’ infrastructure and/or cannot be transported from the public port terminals to companies’ private piers and places due to the road regulations imposed by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). These include bulky, oversized, odd-sized, heavy cargo, or any other special cargo that require unconventional loading methods that cannot be performed by the port operator.
• The goods to be imported are for the importer’s personal use or for use in his own business carried out at such places; and
• The importer or exporter has obtained the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s (MPA) one-time or term approval to load or discharge the cargo at the waterfront location concerned.

To import or export goods that meet the above criteria on a one-time basis, the importer or exporter is required to use the following Place of Release Codes and Place of Receipt Codes and declare the following information in the import and export permit applications respectively.

At TNETS Global, we are proud to be a leading customs intermediary and provider of customs and trade management technology in Singapore. Our strategic location in the heart of Asia Pacific, with excellent air and sea connectivity, makes us the perfect partner for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of customs and trade in the region.

Our team of experienced professionals understands the intricacies of customs regulations and procedures in Singapore and across the Asia Pacific. We offer comprehensive customs clearance services to ensure smooth and efficient import and export processes for your goods. With our in-depth knowledge of customs laws, we help you navigate through the complexities and ensure compliance, saving you time and resources.

To simplify your customs and trade processes, we provide cutting-edge trade management technology solutions. Our state-of-the-art software and digital platforms enable seamless document management, real-time visibility of your shipments, automated compliance checks, and efficient communication with relevant authorities. Our technology empowers you to streamline your supply chain, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency.

Singapore’s strategic location at the crossroads of major trade routes and its world-class transportation infrastructure make it an ideal hub for businesses operating in the Asia Pacific region. With our extensive network and partnerships, we extend our services beyond Singapore to cover the entire Asia Pacific region. Whether you need assistance with customs clearance, trade compliance, or trade technology solutions, our experts are equipped to support your business needs across borders.

Singapore is renowned for its excellent air and sea connectivity, making it an ideal gateway to the Asia Pacific. Changi Airport, consistently ranked as one of the best airports globally, offers direct flights to major cities worldwide. Our proximity to the ports of Tanjong Pagar, Keppel, Brani, Pasir Panjang, Sembawang, Jurong and Tuas, some of the busiest and most efficient ports in the world, ensures seamless sea transport for your goods. We leverage this connectivity to provide you with efficient and reliable Singapore customs and trade services.

In addition to our core Singapore customs clearance and trade management technology offerings, we provide a range of value-added services to cater to your unique requirements. These include consulting services for trade compliance, duty and tax optimization strategies, supply chain risk management, and trade finance solutions. Our aim is to be your trusted partner, supporting your business growth and helping you stay ahead in a competitive marketplace.

With our deep customs expertise, advanced trade management technology, extensive regional reach, and seamless air and sea connectivity, TNETS Global Singapore is your go-to partner for customs and trade solutions in the Asia Pacific.

We are committed to delivering exceptional service, enhancing your operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance in a rapidly changing global trade environment.

Contact us today to explore how TNETS Global Singapore can support your customs and trade management needs. Together, let’s unlock new opportunities and drive your business forward in the dynamic Asia Pacific region.

Our team of customs experts brings years of experience to the table.

They are well-versed in navigating the intricacies of customs regulations and will ensure your shipments clear customs smoothly.

We provide you with access to Customs 360, our ground-breaking customs and trade management business intelligence tool.

Customs 360 streamlines the declaration process, reducing errors and saving valuable time.

Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for you and your clients to monitor and manage customs declarations.

International trade never sleeps, and neither do we.

Our services are available 24/7/365, ensuring that you and your clients have the support you need, whenever you need it.

No matter the time zone or location, we’re here to assist you.

Our Customs Broker Service seamlessly integrates with your existing freight forwarding operations.

You or your clients will experience a unified service that simplifies customs clearance.

We understand the importance of maintaining your brand identity.

With our white label solution, freight forwarders can offer our customs brokerage services under their own brand, enhancing client relationships.

We work closely with you to tailor our services to your specific needs or the requirements of your clients.

Whether it’s handling customs clearance for imports or exports, we have you covered.

Stand out in the market by offering a complete customs brokerage solution.

Streamline operations and reduce the burden of customs compliance.

Eliminate the need for in-house customs experts and expensive software.

Enhance client relationships by providing a seamless customs experience.

TNETS Global’s Customs Broker Service is the key to unlocking new opportunities.

With our experienced declaration team, cutting-edge Customs 360 platform, and 24/7 availability, you can enjoy top-tier customs brokerage services.

Partner with us today and take your customs activities to new heights.

Contact us to learn more about our Customs Broker Service and how it can benefit your business.