Singapore
Website customs Singapore
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: SG
Country Alpha-3 code: SGP
Country numeric code: 702
GDP: USD 467 billion (2023)
Currency: Singapore Dollar
Inhabitants: 5917600
Language: EnglishMalayMandarin ChineseTamil
Freight forwarders in Singapore
Singapore has no freight forwarders
Seaports in Singapore
Airports in Singapore
Shipping between Singapore and Malaysia
Shipping between Singapore and Malaysia is a critical aspect of regional trade, involving various logistical, regulatory, and cost considerations. This comprehensive guide covers pre-import strategies, customs clearance, shipping methods, and cost-saving tips, offering valuable insights to optimize your shipping processes between these neighboring countries.
Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.
Pre-import considerations
First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes.
If you are importing from Singapore to Malaysia , check the Customs Tariff from Malaysia. If you are importing from Malaysia to Singapore, check the Customs Tariff from Singapore.
Make sure you understand all the product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. A specialised freight forwarder can help you with this process.
Customs Clearance Process:
Singapore to Malaysia:
- Documentation: Required documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin. Additional permits may be needed for controlled goods.
- Submission: Submit documents through Malaysia’s Dagang Net system.
- Inspection: Malaysian customs may conduct a physical inspection to ensure compliance with import regulations.
- Duties and Taxes: Calculate and pay applicable import duties and the Sales and Services Tax (SST). Payments can be made online.
Malaysia to Singapore:
- Documentation: Necessary documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any required export permits.
- Submission: File documents via Singapore’s TradeNet system.
- Inspection: Goods may be subject to inspection by Singapore Customs to ensure compliance with local regulations.
- Duties and Taxes: Pay the applicable Goods and Services Tax (GST) and any other relevant duties.
Efficient customs clearance requires accurate documentation and adherence to each country’s regulatory requirements to prevent delays and ensure smooth processing.
Costs to consider
When shipping between Singapore and Malaysia, several costs should be considered to ensure a comprehensive budget:
- Freight Charges: Costs for transporting goods via road, sea, or air. Road freight is often preferred due to the proximity of the two countries.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Both countries impose duties and taxes on imported goods. In Malaysia, these include import duties and the Sales and Services Tax (SST). In Singapore, the primary tax is the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
- Insurance: Protect shipments against potential loss or damage. Insurance costs vary based on the value and nature of the goods.
- Handling Fees: Charges for loading, unloading, and handling goods at ports and borders.
- Documentation Fees: Costs associated with preparing and submitting required shipping and customs documents.
- Warehousing and Storage: Fees for storing goods before, during, or after transit.
- Transportation to/from Ports: Local transportation costs from the origin to the departure port and from the arrival port to the destination.
Saving on Shipping Costs
Saving on shipping costs between Singapore and Malaysia involves strategic planning:
- Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple carriers to find the best rates. Zendeq offers a platform to compare quotes from reliable shipping companies, ensuring cost-effective options.
- Optimize Packaging: Use efficient packaging to reduce dimensional weight and prevent damage, lowering costs.
- Consolidate Shipments: Combine smaller shipments into a single larger one to benefit from bulk rates.
- Flexible Timing: Shipping during off-peak times can reduce costs, as carriers may offer lower rates during less busy periods.
- Negotiate Rates: Establish relationships with carriers and negotiate for better rates based on shipping volume and frequency.
Sending Your Package: Singapore to Malaysia and Vice Versa
For Businesses:
From Singapore to Malaysia:
- Choose a Carrier: Major carriers include DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Singapore Post. These companies offer reliable services with tracking.
- Documentation: Prepare the commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary export permits.
- Customs Clearance: Submit documents through Singapore’s TradeNet system and ensure compliance with Malaysian import regulations.
- Delivery: Carriers like DHL and FedEx provide door-to-door delivery services, ensuring packages reach the destination promptly.
From Malaysia to Singapore:
- Choose a Carrier: Major carriers include DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Pos Malaysia.
- Documentation: Prepare the commercial invoice, packing list, and necessary export permits.
- Customs Clearance: Submit documents via Malaysia’s Dagang Net system and ensure compliance with Singapore import regulations.
- Delivery: Use carriers that offer express delivery options for urgent shipments.
For Individuals:
From Singapore to Malaysia:
- Choose a Carrier: Singapore Post, DHL, and FedEx offer affordable options for individuals.
- Packaging: Ensure the package is securely packed and labeled correctly.
- Customs Forms: Fill out the necessary customs declaration forms.
- Shipping: Drop off the package at the carrier’s service point or schedule a pickup.
From Malaysia to Singapore:
- Choose a Carrier: Pos Malaysia, DHL, and FedEx provide individual shipping services.
- Packaging: Use sturdy packaging to protect the contents.
- Customs Forms: Complete the required customs declaration forms.
- Shipping: Deliver the package to the carrier’s office or arrange for a pickup.
By selecting reputable carriers and adhering to documentation and customs requirements, both businesses and individuals can ensure smooth shipping processes between Singapore and Malaysia.
Great Online Resources for Singapore-Malaysia Shipping
- Singapore Customs: Offers detailed information on customs procedures, duties, and taxes for imports and exports.
- Royal Malaysian Customs Department: Provides comprehensive guidelines on import/export regulations, documentation, and customs duties.
- ASEAN Trade Repository: A valuable resource for trade and customs information within ASEAN countries, including Singapore and Malaysia.
- World Bank: Provides reports and data on global shipping, logistics performance, and trade facilitation.
- International Maritime Organization (IMO): Offers information on international shipping regulations, maritime safety, and environmental standards.
- Singapore Logistics Association: Provides industry insights, best practices, and resources on logistics and supply chain management in Singapore.
- National University of Singapore (NUS): Publishes research and articles on trade, logistics, and supply chain management.
- Dagang Net: Malaysia’s electronic single window for trade declarations and documentation.
- TradeNet: Singapore’s electronic single window for trade declarations and documentation.
- International Chamber of Commerce (ICC): Provides resources on international trade, including Incoterms and trade documentation.
Knowledge base
Malaysia
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: MY
Country Alpha-3 code: MYS
Country numeric code: 458
GDP: USD 406 billion (2023)
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Inhabitants: 33379500
Language: Malay
Freight forwarders in Malaysia
Malaysia has no freight forwarders
Seaports in Singapore
Airports in Malaysia
Malaysia
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: MY
Country Alpha-3 code: MYS
Country numeric code: 458
GDP: USD 406 billion (2023)
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Inhabitants: 33379500
Language: Malay
Freight forwarders in Malaysia
Malaysia has no freight forwarders
Seaports in Singapore
Airports in Malaysia
Singapore
Website customs Singapore
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: SG
Country Alpha-3 code: SGP
Country numeric code: 702
GDP: USD 467 billion (2023)
Currency: Singapore Dollar
Inhabitants: 5917600
Language: EnglishMalayMandarin ChineseTamil
Freight forwarders in Singapore
Singapore has no freight forwarders