How to ship internationally from the Philippines for first-time shippers

For many in the Philippines, the idea of sending a package overseas for the first time can seem complicated. Between customs forms, shipping rules, and the sheer distance, it’s easy to feel intimidated.

However, DHL Express is here to help you every step of the way, from guiding you on what items can and cannot be shipped overseas to preparing your package for international shipping, serving as a beginner's handbook for first-time shippers.

Whether you're sending a personal gift to family abroad or fulfilling a customer's order for your growing business, shipping from the Philippines to a global destination is more accessible than ever. Even without a DHL Express business account, you can easily ship to international destinations with the proper knowledge.

What items can and cannot be shipped internationally

While it might seem like you can send anything, strict regulations are in place to ensure the safety and security of all shipments.

Common items you can ship:

Most non-prohibited items are fine to send, whether as personal gifts, business samples, or online shop orders.

Common items you can ship include:

• Clothes and footwear
• Documents and books
• Non-perishable food
• Souvenirs and handicrafts

Common items you cannot ship:

A wide range of items is restricted or outright prohibited from shipping to and from the Philippines. Attempting to send these goods can lead to significant delays, fines, or even confiscation.

Key examples of what you cannot ship include:

• Counterfeit or pirated goods
• Currency
• Flammable or hazardous items
• Weapons, firearms, and ammunition
• Narcotics and illegal substances
• Live animals or plants
• Perishable food Items (but with exceptions like dry ice shipments and chilled foods)

It's also essential to be aware of what items cannot be shipped internationally due to country-specific regulations. While an item might be allowed to leave the Philippines, it could be prohibited in the destination country. For instance, certain food products or cultural artifacts may be banned in some countries. Therefore, always check the specific import regulations of your destination country before you begin packing your items bound for international shipping.

How to pack for international shipping

Proper packaging for shipping protects your goods from damage and ensures a smooth journey. It also helps you avoid unnecessary delays, returns, or unexpected fees. Therefore, before sealing your box, take the time to check the specific restrictions and taxes for the country to which you're shipping internationally.

1. Choose the right packaging

Always use a new, sturdy box or a padded envelope that is appropriate for your item’s size and weight. A corrugated cardboard box is ideal for most packages, while a padded envelope is well-suited for flat, non-fragile items such as books or documents.

Then, when packing, ensure your box has minimal empty space to prevent contents from shifting and getting damaged. Additionally, use ample cushioning materials, such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam inserts, and wrap each item individually for maximum protection. Finally, use strong packing tape to seal all seams and edges, reinforcing corners for heavier items.

2. Write accurate labels

An accurate and legible label is vital for ensuring your package reaches its destination. Write the recipient's full name, complete address with postcode, and a valid contact number clearly on the label. Also, include the country name in capital letters for clarity. If you're filling out the label by hand, make sure your handwriting is legible to prevent any misreading.

3. Include required documents

Every international shipment, even personal ones, requires specific documentation for customs. For personal shipments, you'll need a waybill and a commercial invoice. Specific import permits or a certificate of origin may be required to clear customs, depending on your package and its final destination. These documents must accurately describe the contents of your package and their value.

For businesses, the documentation is more comprehensive. Beyond the waybill and commercial invoice, you may need:

• Export license: Required for regulated goods, this document is granted by the government and permits the export of specific quantities of items to a designated destination. First-time exporters must register with the Client Profile Registration System (CPRS) to secure this.
• Bill of lading: Issued by the carrier, this legal document confirms receipt of your cargo. It serves as both a transportation contract and a receipt upon delivery of the goods.
• Certificate of origin: This document certifies the manufacturing location of the goods. It's often necessary to determine if the products are eligible for import and to assess applicable duties.
• Customs export declaration: A formal statement detailing all exported goods.
• Shipping invoice: An itemized bill detailing the shipped goods, including descriptions, quantities, prices, and sale terms. This is used for customs valuation and payment processing.
• Packing list: This detailed document lists the contents, quantities, and packaging specifics of each item. It helps with inspections and facilitates smooth customs clearance and handling.

How to send a package internationally with DHL Express

As a first-time shipper, you have three convenient options for how you can ship a package internationally

• Visiting a DHL Express Service Point: With over 300 DHL Express Service Points located throughout the Philippines, you can easily find a location nearest you. Simply bring your prepared package directly to the service point, and our staff can assist you with any questions and ensure everything is in order before the shipment begins its journey.
• Arranging a shipment by phone: If you prefer to speak directly with one of our representatives, you can easily arrange your shipment by phone and clear any doubts on your packages and international shipping process.
• Scheduling a pickup online: Alternatively, you can easily arrange a pickup online through our intuitive shipping platform, MyDHL+. Input your pickup and destination addresses, along with your package's size and weight, and our system will instantly calculate the delivery cost. A DHL Express courier will then come directly to your specified address to collect your package at a time that works best for you.

How pricing works

The price of your international delivery is primarily based on these factors:

• Origin and destination: Costs are affected by the distance, transportation routes, and regional pricing between the Philippines and the destination country.
• Package dimensions and weight: Larger and heavier packages typically incur higher costs due to the increased handling and transportation requirements. We account for both the actual weight and volumetric weight of your shipment to ensure a precise cost estimation.
• Shipment contents: A general description helps us determine if any special handling or customs regulations apply, which may influence the final price.
• Service type: DHL Express offers a range of services with varying speeds and delivery times.
• Additional services: If you need services like shipment protection, customs clearance assistance, or remote area delivery.

Delivery timeframes

Generally, international delivery services can take anywhere from two to 14 days. However, selecting a specific DHL Express service from our range of solutions guarantees the fastest possible transit time, ensuring your package arrives as quickly as the next possible business day.

With time-definite services, your business can choose a specific delivery time window, such as 9:00 AM or by 10:30 AM, 12 noon, or end of business day, ensuring predictable delivery schedules. In the most urgent scenarios, our same-day delivery service provides a 24-hour turnaround for door-to-door delivery, ensuring your most critical shipments arrive when every minute counts.

While our global network is built for speed and reliability, it's important to note that delays can occasionally occur due to unforeseen circumstances, such as customs checks in the destination country or during peak shipping periods like holidays.

Track your shipment

Once your parcel is sent, you will be provided with a unique tracking number on your receipt or waybill. You can use this number to get real-time updates on your shipment's location and status via our website. This gives you peace of mind and full visibility over your package’s journey.

Should your package be damaged or go missing, you can contact our customer support team within 30 days of DHL Express receiving it. We'll launch a full investigation to resolve the issue and provide you with updates on our progress within three business days, ensuring a swift response to your concerns.

What to do if there’s a delay

Delays can happen due to customs inspections or, in some cases, incorrect address details. Your best course of action is to contact customer service with your tracking number for guidance. They can provide specific information on the cause of the delay and offer guidance on the next steps to resolve the issue.

Tips for a smooth first shipment

To ensure your first experience with international shipping from the Philippines is successful, keep these tips in mind:

• Check country rules: Always verify the specific import regulations of the destination country. For example, some countries ban food items or require a tax ID for the receiver, even for personal shipments.
• Keep receipts and tracking info: Hold on to all your documentation until the package is safely delivered. Your waybill and receipt are your proof of shipment and contain all the information you’ll need to track your parcel.
• Be honest and accurate: Always provide honest and accurate descriptions of your items and their declared value on the customs declaration. This is a legal requirement and helps prevent customs issues.

Ship your first package with DHL Express

Shipping your first package internationally is easier than you think, especially when you have the right information and a reliable partner. DHL Express has simplified the process so that everyone, whether a new business owner or an individual, can send a package internationally with confidence.

The world is waiting for your package. Visit your nearest DHL Express Service Point or try sending a parcel online. For business owners, open a business account today to streamline your international logistics and manage all your shipments in one centralized platform.