What precautions should you take when shipping internationally to Southeast Asian countries?
Below is an analysis provided by Weefreight for your reference.
Thailand
Customs Sensitive Items: E-cigarettes and accessories are prohibited, and possessing such items carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years. Food items, such as meat snacks and plant seeds, are also considered sensitive items. Furthermore, cosmetics must include a Thai ingredient list.
Shipment Restrictions: For land transport, the maximum single-side length must not exceed 220cm, the total length must not exceed 660cm, and the maximum weight must not exceed 100kg. For local standard shipping, the maximum single-side length is 100cm, the total length must not exceed 150cm, and the maximum weight must not exceed 50kg.
Tariff Policy: Starting in 2025, imported goods under 1,500 Thai baht (approximately 300 yuan) will be exempt from customs duties, but a complete commercial invoice must be provided. Receiving more than three shipments to the same recipient within 30 days may trigger tax retroactive measures.
Malaysia
Customs Sensitive Items: Black packaging is particularly sensitive, and religious items and imported books are also subject to special scrutiny. Electronic products without CE certification will be confiscated.
Shipment Restrictions: Maximum dimensions of 100cm x 70cm x 70cm on all three sides, with a maximum weight of 30kg. For local standard shipping, the maximum dimensions per side are 200cm, with a total of 350cm on all three sides, and a weight limit of 100kg.
Tariff Policy: Packages valued under RM500 (approximately RMB760) are duty-free. If the goods are transiting through Singapore and the declared value is less than S$400 (approximately RMB2100), Singapore Customs will require proof of origin. Otherwise, additional duties will be levied according to Malaysian import standards.
Vietnam
Customs-Sensitive Items: Every shipment of cosmetics will be inspected, and a toxicology report is required. Secondhand, unwashed shoes and rosewood products are also regulated items. Furthermore, the “Gift” mark cannot be used on express delivery slips. The country has abolished its tax-free policy.
Shipment Restrictions: International express delivery channels generally require a length + width + height of less than 300cm, with a maximum weight of 30kg. For local standard shipping, the maximum length is 140cm per side, with a total of 240cm, and a maximum weight of 70kg.
Tariff Policy: The tax-free policy for goods under 1 million Vietnamese dong (approximately 288 yuan) has been completely abolished. Electronic products are subject to a 10% value-added tax, with a 30% inspection rate. Packages that have not prepaid taxes will be subject to a mandatory customs clearance fee of 50-80 yuan.
Philippines
Customs-Sensitive Items: Egg yolk products and drones with cameras are subject to special control requirements. Drones require military approval for entry.
Shipment Restrictions: The maximum dimensions for international express delivery are 110cm x 70cm x 70cm, with a maximum weight of 30kg. For local standard delivery services, the maximum dimensions per side are 150cm, with a total of 240cm. The weight limit is 50kg. Liquids in bags must be within 300ml. Any excess volume must be boxed and properly packaged.
Tariff Policy: There are no specific low-value duty-free allowances for imported goods. However, the customs clearance process for high-value goods is more complex, requiring detailed and accurate documentation to avoid delays.
Singapore
Customs Sensitive Items: Sensitive items such as meat snacks are easily seized. For example, if beef jerky is discovered, the entire box may be confiscated.
Shipment Restrictions: The maximum dimensions for international express delivery are 110cm x 70cm x 70cm, with a maximum weight of 30kg. Standard local shipping limits are 150cm per side, with a total of no more than 300cm on all three sides, and a maximum of 30kg.
Tariff Policy: Packages valued under S$400 are generally duty-free. For higher-value goods, Singapore Customs requires complete and accurate declaration information. Any discrepancies found upon arrival will result in fines and other penalties.
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