Singapore maintains one of the lowest import barriers globally, allowing most goods to enter the country with minimal taxation. However, incomplete or inaccurate documentation can delay the import process.
That’s where DHL comes in. As a premium courier service, we streamline every step—from booking and documentation to shipping—ensuring your importing journey is smooth and hassle-free.
Understanding import shipments
There are two parties involved in an import shipment, the shipper and receiver.
DHL acts as the bridge between the shipper and receiver, expediting clearance processes and safely importing your package from over 220 countries into Singapore.
Importing journey begins with the receiver
1. Create a shipment through MyDHL+
2. Send waybill to shipper after reaching the "Print" stage
- The waybill your package's ticket into Singapore. Don't forget to send it to your shipper!
Shipper confirms and prepares the package
3. Confirm and schedule pickup with confirmation email
- If pickup is not scheduled, the delivery will be delayed indefinitely. Make sure to check your email!
4. Package item(s) properly
- Refer to our packaging guide for proper packing procedures.
- You may order supplies from DHL such as boxes, envelopes, and flyer bags.
5. Print and paste waybill on package
DHL picks up the shipment from the shipper and delivers it to the receiver
6. Courier picks up package from shipper
7. Package is delivered to receiver
- Before receiving the package, the receiver pays all applicable import duties. Check your email regularly for notifications to pay your duties.
Example of a waybill
Use cases for personal shippers
Relocating to Singapore
DHL ships household goods such as furniture, appliances, and kitchenware, perfect for those looking to relocate. Furthermore, we take special care with fragile items, providing you extra materials such as double or tri-walled boxes. For more information on how to safely pack fragile items, visit this online guide on packing and shipping fragile items overseas.
Shippers moving into Singapore may import household goods without GST, provided they satisfy the conditions stated below.
- The importer is changing his/her place of residence from overseas to Singapore
- The importer is the owner of the goods being imported
- The goods have been in his/her possession for at least three months, and will not be disposed of within three months of importation
- The goods are imported within six months of his/her first arrival in Singapore
Visit this relocation guide if you would like to find out more about using DHL’s services for relocation overseas.
Overseas Passport renewal
Overseas passport renewals, which require both export and import shipments, can be booked simultaneously on MyDHL+.
1. Fill up the online form as per normal for both export and import shipments and create two waybills.
2. Place both your old passport and import waybill into the same envelope before shipping.
3. Once your new passport is ready, the sender will attach the enclosed import waybill to ship your new passport back to you without having to create a new shipment.
To learn more about shipping your passport using a courier service, visit this online article.
Duties and Taxes
As simple as it is to create new import shipments, it is just as important to know Singapore’s import rules and regulations.
As of 2024, importers will need to pay 9% GST for all imported goods regardless of value.
Additional duties will also have to paid for the following items:
- Tobacco products
- Petroleum products and biodiesel blends
Let DHL Express handle your imports
With ever-shifting trade rules and policies sending international shockwaves, it is more important than ever to stay updated with the current import rules and regulations. Although Singapore is a free port with simplified customs procedures, it is always good to be prepared with the right documents and proper clearance. DHL Express is here to ensure a smooth import experience with our in-house customs clearance experts. If you need further guidance on import rules, duties, and taxes, do reach out to our online customer service.
Ready to begin importing to Singapore? Visit MyDHL+ to start your import journey!
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