Trade from Egypt to KSA: Costs, Transit Times & How to Ship

How Shipping from Egypt to Saudi Arabia Works

Shipping from Egypt to Saudi Arabia doesn't have to be complicated. However, you should make sure that you follow all the key steps in the process. 

1. Check whether the item is permitted.
2. Measure and weigh the packed shipment.
3. Select the shipping service.
4. Prepare the shipping and customs documents.
5. Book the shipment.
6. Arrange collection or drop-off.
7. Track the shipment.
8. Complete customs clearance.
9. Deliver to the receiver.

Each step in this process must be completed correctly in order to ensure that the package arrives safely and efficiently at its destination especially when it comes to details like permits, weighing the package, and filling out customs documentation. 

Common shipment types sent to Saudi Arabia

A variety of shipments move from Egypt to Saudi Arabia on a regular basis. That includes everything from documents and personal parcels to more extensive shipments. As Egypt's largest Arab trading partner, Saudi Arabia often receives shipments of items like: 

1. Egyptian
2. Cement
3. Salt
4. Fertilisers
5. Agricultural products, including fresh produce like citrus fruit as well as frozen vegetables and meat
6. Natural gypum
7. Marble and granite
8. Clothing, including a high number of knitted clothing items

The acceptability of a shipment depends on its exact contents and applicable regulations. Make sure you do your research into not only what items are allowed to be shipped into Saudi Arabia, but also what paperwork you must include.

Express courier, air freight or other shipping services

When you're shipping items from Egypt to Saudi Arabia, those shipments must cover hundreds of miles. Choosing the right shipping service can go a long way toward ensuring that your package reaches its destination in a timely manner without unnecessarily increasing your costs. Most often, you may want to choose an option like express courier for urgent parcels and documents that need to make it to their destination quickly. Air freight is ideal for larger commercial shipments that may need to reach their destination in a timely manner. For large or palletized cargo, on the other hand, freight solutions may be the best way to ship your products.

How Much Does Shipping from Egypt to Saudi Arabia Cost?

For shipping items from Egypt to Saudi Arabia, price varies depending on the type of shipping service you are considering. , Moreover, rates change based on shipment details, service availability, surcharges and customs treatment which means working with a trusted shipping provider is often the best way to ensure that your shipments are handled efficiently. 

What are factors impacting the shipping cost from Egypt to Saudi Arabia?

Shipment weight

Your shipment weight is priced by the actual weight: the price of the entire package when weighed on a scale. It includes not only the item you're shipping, but also the packaging, padding, and labels. Heavier shipments generally cost more than smaller ones, regardless of how you send them.

Package dimensions and volumetric weight

It's not just the weight of your shipment that matters. Parcel size can lead to increased shipping charges even at lower weights. Volumetric weight is taken into account not just the actual weight of the shipment, but also the amount of space it takes up on the shipping vehicle. Oversized packaging can increase chargeable weight and in fact, lightweight but large packages can end up costing just as much as more compact, heavy ones. Make sure you measure the final packed parcel accurately so that you can effectively calculate shipping costs. 

Origin and destination

Shipping prices may vary based on:

1. Egyptian collection city
2. Saudi destination city
3. Remote-area classification
4. Pickup or drop-off arrangement
5. Available delivery services

Your shipping provider can help you understand what specific elements may have contributed to your costs. 

Delivery speed and service level

For many people, there is a critical balance between the speed of express delivery and the cost benefits of standard or less urgent services, where available. Selecting the right service provider may also include taking a look at what tracking options or special handling services, including temperature control, are available. At DHL Express Egypt, we offer a trusted, reliable and door-to-door express service with shipping and tracking solutions to fit your business needs.

Customs duties, taxes and other charges

Transportation charges are different from the fees that may be assessed during shipping. They can include:

1. Customs duty
2. VAT or applicable taxes
3. Customs-clearance-related charges
4. Fuel surcharges, particularly during times when fuel costs may have increased
5. Remote-area surcharges
6. Special handling charges

Saudi Arabia provides official customs tariff and duty-calculation tools, but the amount payable depends on the HS code, value, origin, and product category. Check out the  ZATCA Customs Tariff page and ZATCA Customs and Tax Calculator to help you assess your costs. 

 

How Long Does Delivery from Egypt to Saudi Arabia Take?

 Transit time varies depending on the service provider and there are other factors that go into determining how long it will likely take for the shipment to be delivered. At DHL Express Egypt for instance, it generally takes us between two to three days to move shipments, providing that the clearance process goes smoothly and there are no external factors that lead to delays. 

 

Factors affecting the estimated transit time

When estimating transit time, you may have to evaluate a number of potential aspects including both those that you can control and those that you can't. 

1. Origin and destination cities
2. Selected service
3. Booking time
4. Weekends and public holidays
5. Shipment contents
6. Documentation accuracy
7. Customs inspection
8. Receiver availability
9. Remote-area delivery
10. Weather or operational disruption

Shipping times can change based on times of year or high-volume periods. If you have specific delivery timelines you must meet, work with your delivery provider to choose the best available options, including selecting the right port for your delivery or selecting an express shipping option that can move into the country faster.

Transit time versus customs-clearance time

Transit time is the estimated transportation period and generally covers the time the shipment actually spends getting from its origin point in Egypt to its destination in Saudi Arabia. Customs clearance is a separate process, and relies on processes outside the control of your shipping provider. Furthermore, incomplete information can cause unexpected delays.

A delivery estimate is not the same thing as an unconditional guarantee. When you're shipping items, you must take those factors into account--and the person receiving those items should also plan for potential delays.

 

Documents Required to Ship from Egypt to Saudi Arabia

Providing clear, complete documentation can help protect your shipment and streamline the shipping process. It is also worth mentioning that it is mandatory in Saudi Arabia to have the postal code of the address included in all needed documentations to ensure the delivery of the shipment.

Airway bill

The airway bill contains essential shipment, sender, and receiver information, including contact information so that it is easy to contact you or the receiver with any questions. 

Commercial invoice

The commercial invoice is for goods and commercial shipments and includes:

1. Shipper information
2. Receiver information
3. Detailed goods description
4. Quantity
5. Unit value and total value
6. Currency
7. Country of origin
8. HS code
9. Shipment purpose
10. Incoterms where applicable

Avoid descriptions such as "parts," "samples" or "gift items" without further explanation. Instead, clearly define what is in the shipment. HS codes can make it easier to clearly define those items and avoid delays, since they lay out clear categories. 

Packing list

A packing list is most commonly needed for multi-item or commercial consignments. It lets the sender, receiver, and customs know exactly what is in each shipment. 

Certificate of origin and product-specific documents

Saudi import instructions identify documents such as the commercial invoice, bill of lading and, where applicable, certificate of origin, alongside any commodity-specific permits.

Potential additional requirements may apply to:

1. Food products
2. Cosmetics
3. Medical products
4. Pharmaceuticals
5. Electronics
6. Chemicals
7. Batteries
8. Agricultural products
9. Commercial quantities

Every shipment does not require the same documents, so make sure you look up the specific requirements for the items you're shipping to avoid potential problems. 
 

Saudi Arabia Customs, Duties and Import Requirements

Importing items into Saudi Arabia means that you must follow Saudi regulations. 

How customs duties are determined

Customs duties are often determined by the product, based on the HS code, and the declared customs value. The calculations may also incorporate country of origin, any applicable tariffs, and freight and insurance, where they're included in the customs valuation.

Who pays the duties and taxes?

Either the sender or the receiver may be responsible for paying duties and taxes, but it's important to agree to that responsibility before dispatching the shipment. When the receiver is unaware of the charges, it can lead to unexpected shipment delays.

Personal shipments versus commercial imports

Personal importation and commercial quantities may be treated differently. Saudi personal-import rules require relevant importer information and permits for restricted goods; commercial-looking quantities may require a different process. Consult those regulations to make sure you're following the right process for your shipment.

How to reduce the risk of customs delays

If you want to avoid potential customs delays, make sure you include:

1. Accurate product descriptions
2. Correct HS codes
3. Realistic declared values
4. Complete receiver information
5. Valid Saudi contact number
6. Required product permits
7. Consistent information across all documents

In addition, respond quickly to customs requests to ensure that the process continues to move smoothly. 
 

What Can and Cannot Be Shipped to Saudi Arabia?

Many items can be shipped to Saudi Arabia; however, before you package your shipment, make sure you know what items may cause problems, including those that are prohibited or that require special documentation. 

Prohibited items

Consult the latest official and carrier-specific prohibited-items list before booking your shipment. However, there are some categories that are more likely to have prohibitions, including:

1. Illegal goods
2. Certain weapons and ammunition
3. Narcotic substances
4. Counterfeit products
5. Products prohibited under local laws

This is in addition to items that may be considered sensitive within Muslim or Saudi cultural contexts, or in relation to Middle East security concerns, are not permitted. This includes images of Mecca or Medina, Quranic verses, religious publications or figures, and photographs of the Saudi Royal Family.

Moreover, the import of pork products, items bearing the Saudi coat of arms, sexual or pornographic materials, and devices such as pens, watches, or glasses equipped with hidden cameras is strictly prohibited.

Furthermore, goods that are manufactured in or originate from Israel, display the Israeli flag, or contain any Israeli markings or references are prohibited. Shipments sent to or from Israel using a billing account registered in the country are also not accepted.

If your item may fall into one of those categories, make sure you perform careful checks before shipping. 

Restricted and regulated products

Even items that are not prohibited may need to meet specific standards before shipment. Alternatively, they may have specific documentation requirements. Common categories include:

1. Food
2. Cosmetics
3. Medicines
4. Medical devices
5. Chemicals
6. Batteries
7. Electronic equipment
8. Plant and animal products
9. High-value goods
10. Dangerous goods

Restricted does not always mean prohibited; rather, it often means that permits, approvals or specialized handling are required.

 

How to Pack a Shipment from Egypt to Saudi Arabia

If you're getting ready to send a shipment from Egypt to Saudi Arabia, There are few things to consider when packaging your international shipments. Click here to know more.

How to Send a Parcel from Egypt to Saudi Arabia with DHL Express Egypt

If you're ready to ship your package with DHL Express Egypt, this quick guide will help ensure that you have taken care of all key details. 

Step 1 – Confirm that the item is accepted

Check prohibited, restricted and dangerous-goods requirements.

Step 2 – Pack and measure the shipment

Record accurate final weight and dimensions.

Step 3 – Get a shipping rate and transit-time estimate

Use the DHL quote tool with the actual shipment details.

Step 4 – Prepare the customs documents

Complete the invoice, air waybill and any required product documentation.

Step 5 – Book pick up or select a drop-off option

Search for available drop-off to the nearest DHL Express Service Point locations near you or contact our customer service on 16345 to schedule pickup. 

Step 6 – Track the shipment

Keep up with your shipment via tracking number and provide updates to the recipient as needed. You can always do that through DHL Express Mobile app, MyDHL+ or through ShipNow.

Step 7 – Respond to customs or carrier requests

Sender and receiver should both remain available if additional information is requested.

 

Partner with DHL for Shipments from Egypt to Saudi Arabia

If you're ready to start the shipping process or need more information about potential costs, reach out to learn about DHL Express Egypt’s shipping options and how you can choose the right one for you. Whether you have business shipping needs or personal ones, we're here to get your package on its way.