International shipping solutions for small businesses in Cambodia

Having the right international shipping options is not only advantageous but also essential for small businesses in Cambodia’s rapidly expanding e-commerce market. Speed, reliability, and flexibility now define whether customers stay loyal or look elsewhere. However, navigating the logistics landscape, from customs regulations to selecting a trusted partner, can feel daunting.

This guide cuts through the jargon, offering clear, practical advice to help you streamline shipping, meet customer expectations, and confidently expand your reach both locally and internationally.

Cambodia’s booming e-commerce sector and what it means for SMEs

Cambodia’s digital economy is growing at breakneck speed, with e-commerce expected to add more than US$1.78 billion to the nation’s GDP by 2025¹. This surge is driven by:

• Broad mobile and internet penetration: With over 11 million Facebook users and nearly 10 million TikTok users, Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most connected markets².
• Young, tech-savvy demographic: Many are quick adopters of mobile-first payments, digital solutions, and social commerce³.
• Social media sales dominance: Facebook and TikTok aren’t just reshaping advertising; they’ve become core retail platforms for SMEs, boasting high consumer engagement⁴.
• Gen Z’s buying habits: Today’s consumers expect fast, reliable delivery with complete shipment transparency.

For small businesses, these trends open up new opportunities while creating new challenges. The key to success is adopting the best shipping solutions — ones that are efficient, tailored, and fully trackable. 

With the right systems in place, you can consistently meet delivery expectations, scale operations with ease, and position your brand to thrive in Cambodia’s fast-moving e-commerce market.

Top strategies for e-commerce sellers in Cambodia:

To capture more customers and drive sales, e-commerce sellers in Cambodia should focus on:

• Leveraging high-traction sales platforms, especially social marketplaces

• Prioritizing reliable delivery with real-time tracking to build trust

• Preparing scalable packaging and fulfillment systems to handle rising orders

Best shipping practices for Cambodian small businesses

Using effective international shipping solutions as a small business means avoiding compliance issues and unnecessary costs. Key best practices include:

Research local regulations and customs

Compliance in Cambodia is essential. As a small business, your shipping solutions must factor in evolving regulations from bodies like:

• Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF): Oversees fisheries and agricultural product regulations, including permits related to the export/import of animal and plant products, ensuring sustainable management and conservation⁵.
• Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy (MIME): Regulates the mining and energy sectors, including transportation and shipping policies relevant to certain goods, operating under specific licensing and environmental assessment frameworks⁶.
• General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE): Administers import/export clearance, manages customs declarations, and enforces customs laws to prevent illegal or unsafe shipments⁷.

Know your restricted items, secure correct permits, and always prepare necessary documents (invoices, packing lists, Certificates of Origin) to prevent delays.

Ensure accurate and complete documentation

Clear paperwork speeds up customs. Essential documents include:

• Customs Declaration Certificates
• Bills of Lading or Airway Bills
• Licenses for controlled goods

Exporting crops? Be sure to obtain Phytosanitary and Sanitary Certifications. To comply with regulations, register with the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Economy and Finance for VAT. 

Common shipping mistakes Cambodian SMEs can’t afford to make

Don’t overlook customs procedures

Incomplete declarations stall shipments, draw fines, and erode trust. Always pre-clear controlled items like food, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.

Don’t underestimate transit times and delays

Cambodia’s geography affects delivery times, especially outside major hubs. Anticipate delays during holidays and peak seasons, and build in extra buffer time.

Don’t ignore storage fees and overstay penalties

Customs storage is not free long-term. Overstaying can result in high fees that eat into profits.

Don’t use unreliable or inexperienced shipping partners

Providers with limited network or little customs know-how can cause costly delays, lost packages, and reputation damage. Choose partners with experience in international shipping.

Don’t neglect tracking and monitoring

Shipment visibility, especially for parcels heading overseas, is non-negotiable. Without robust tracking, issues can spiral and consumer confidence can falter.

Why DHL Express Cambodia delivers the best shipping solutions for small businesses

DHL Express KH is a leader in international shipping solutions for Cambodian e-commerce. Here’s why we’re the top choice:

Key DHL Express advantages for small businesses in Cambodia:

1. Comprehensive shipping solutions

DHL offers urgent express services and reliable time-definite deliveries (9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:30 pm) — ideal for sending parcels overseas. On Demand Delivery lets customers tailor delivery times and locations, reducing missed deliveries.

2. Customs expertise and regulatory compliance

DHL’s specialists guide you through import/export permits, HS codes, Incoterms, and paperwork, reducing risk, delays, and storage charges.

3. Tailored business account benefits

SMEs enjoy preferential rates—up to 30% savings, free packaging supplies, scheduled pickups, and billing cycles matching cash flow. These perks make DHL one of the cheapest international shipping options when total value is considered.

4. Digital tools for streamlined shipping

Platforms like MyDHL+ make it easy for businesses to manage shipments, obtain quotes, and track parcels in real-time.

5. Comprehensive support and resources

24/7 service, proactive tracking updates, and end-to-end assistance keep your supply chain smooth — even during peak seasons or in rural locations.

6. Global reach with local expertise

DHL’s expansive network covers rural Cambodia and 220+ countries, ensuring delivery success no matter your customer’s location.

Ready to grow your business? Unlock global opportunities with DHL Express

The right logistics partner can be the key to your success. Whether you're sending an order to Phnom Penh or shipping to the UK, DHL Express Cambodia gives you the speed, reliability, and global reach you need to thrive in the e-commerce market. Our international shipping solutions combine deep customs expertise with exclusive benefits for small businesses, allowing you to ship smarter, cut costs, and delight customers anywhere in the world.

Ready to grow? Sign up for a DHL Express business account today and unlock faster deliveries, preferential rates, and the confidence to expand without limits. Your next loyal customer is just one shipment away.