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Comprehensive guide to shipping mobile phones overseas

4 Mins Read
many smartphones in various orientations

Shipping mobile phones internationally can be tricky due to varying customs regulations and restrictions. Understanding these regulations is crucial for ensuring smooth international delivery, avoiding delays, and preventing unexpected costs.

This FAQ page provides essential information for businesses in Singapore looking to ship a phone internationally, presented in a handy table format for easy reference.

While this guide offers a snapshot of prevailing requirements for popular destinations, shippers should always double-check with official sources or consult with a customs clearance agent for the most up-to-date information.

Common FAQs when shipping phones internationally

My phone has a lithium battery. Are there any special shipping rules for that?

Yes, lithium batteries are classified as Dangerous Goods1, and there are international regulations for shipping a phone internationally with them. Some general rules include:

  • Defective, damaged and recalled batteries are not permitted for international shipping.
  • The battery must be securely installed in the device.
  • The package may need specific labeling indicating the presence of lithium batteries.
  • There may be quantity restrictions on the number of batteries or devices containing batteries in a single package.
  • You may need to provide a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the battery.


It's crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations for shipping smartphones with lithium batteries internationally in order to ensure compliance and avoid delays or safety hazards. Find out how to ship lithium batteries internationally safely and within regulatory standards.

What documents do I need to ship a phone internationally?

When shipping a phone internationally, you'll typically need to include, at a minimum, a commercial invoice with accurate information such as:

  • Value of the phone
  • Model and brand
  • Quantity
  • Country of origin

Some countries may require additional documentation such as import permits or certificates from the local telecommunications agency. For example, when shipping phones to Taiwan, you may need to provide an "Affidavit form" from the National Communications Commission (NCC) for devices with wireless transmission capabilities. Country-specific requirements for popular destination countries are specified in the table below.

I'm shipping a mobile phone as a gift. Are the rules different?

woman sending mobile phones abroad

Can you ship a phone internationally as a gift? Yes, absolutely. Moreover, you will still need to comply with customs regulations in the destination country. Be sure to declare the accurate value of the phone on the commercial invoice, as customs officials may assess duties and taxes based on this value. Our guide to shipping household goods and personal effects may also provide useful information.

Country-specific information for shipping phones internationally

Destination CountryShipping Requirements / Restrictions

Malaysia

  • Import permit required for phones with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and frequency support.
  • Local authority: Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM)
  • SIRIM conducts product certification and inspection.

Australia

  • No specific shipping/import requirements for mobile phones.
  • De Minimis Value: AU$1,000
  • 10% GST applies to shipments above the de minimis value.

United Kingdom

  • Lithium batteries and parts, machines, and electronics may require additional documentation and/or government agency approvals prior to customs clearance.

United States

  • No specific shipping/import requirements for mobile phones.
  • Tax ID required for shipments over US$2,500 in value.

Indonesia

  • No specific shipping/import requirements for mobile phones.
  • For B2C shipments valued under US$1,500, customs will typically approve without a permit (post-border restrictions apply).

China

  • No specific shipping/import requirements for mobile phones.
  • Import license required for encryption products.

Canada

  • No specific shipping/import requirements for mobile phones.

Taiwan

  • All items/devices with wireless transmission capabilities (e.g. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) require an “Affidavit form” from the National Communications Commission (NCC) for approval and clearance.

South Korea

  • Exception for personal consumption: 1 mobile phone per shipment per day is exempt from permit/license requirements.

Cambodia

  • All shipments of mobile phones or other devices with SIM card slots (smartwatches, tablets, GPS) must include the following on the commercial invoice:
  • Number of SIM card slots
  • Serial number
  • International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number
  • Clearance may be delayed if this information is not declared correctly.

Oman

  • B2C shipments of more than four (4) mobile phones require an import permit from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA).

UAE

  • B2C shipments of more than four (4) mobile phones require an import permit from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).

Bahrain

  • Mobile phones, components, and communications equipment require an import permit from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), Kingdom of Bahrain.

Saudi Arabia

  • Mobile phones for private individuals are not subject to Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) approval.
  • Ministerial approvals may be required for restricted products, including telecommunications equipment.

Kuwait

  • Electronics and electrical items may require approval from the Public Authority for Industry (PAI).
  • Mobile phones, laptops, and telecommunication equipment require Communication & Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) approval.
  • B2C & C2C shipments valued under KW$5,000 are exempt from PAI approval.
  • International Conformity Certification Program compliance is required for certain commodities, including all electronics.

Qatar

  • Communication equipment is subject to Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) approval.
  • Approval can only be applied for once the shipment arrives in the country.
  • DHL can apply for CRA approval on behalf of the consignee.

Achieve seamless international shipping with DHL Express

Shipping mobile phones internationally requires careful consideration of customs regulations and restrictions. 

If you're looking to send mobile phones abroad, DHL Express offers reliable international shipping solutions and expert guidance to navigate the complexities of customs.

Our shipping logistics and supply chain logistics expertise, combined with our global network and advanced tracking capabilities, ensure your shipments reach their destination safely and efficiently. Resources such as this FAQ and the MyDHL+ platform also help you ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid delays or unexpected costs.

Have questions on how much it costs to ship a phone internationally? Contact the DHL Express team for a personalized quote on mobile phone shipping charges and to explore our global shipping solutions.

 

Create a DHL Express business account today and experience immediate hassle-free international delivery for your mobile phone shipments.

Open an Account

1 - DHL Express, 2024

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