Clearing your belongings through customs in Singapore

Hello everyone,

During one's big move abroad, shipping personal belongings to the host country can be stressful. Customs regulations differ from one country to another and you never quite know what to expect when trying to recover your belongings once you're settled. How about helping expats considering moving to Singapore by answering some questions about custom regulations?

What are the procedures to get your belongings cleared by customs once you have arrived in Singapore? Who do you have to contact and how do you get in touch with them? How do you go about from there?

How long does this process usually take?

How do you then carry your belongings to your new home?

Are there any items that are restricted by customs in Singapore?

How much does it cost to get your belongings cleared by customs in Singapore? Does the cost change depending on the amount or on certain specific items?

Do you think it is better to seek the help of a contractor to get your belongings cleared in Singapore?

Please share your experience,

Priscilla

Used Household Goods and Personal Effects
Singapore customs – Inbound


Documents Required
•    Copy of passport (photograph and personal information pages)
•    Declaration of facts form
•    Original bill of lading (OBL) / air waybill (AWB)
•    Copy of the owner of the goods' employment pass / green card (both sides)
•    Goods and services tax relief form (GST)
•    Supplementary Customs declaration form
•    Wine and liquor declaration form
•    Exemption permit (diplomats)

Specific Information
•    A duty exemption will be given to goods if all documentation as requested above is in order.
•    Goods should be in the owner of the goods' possession and used for more than 3 months.
•    Shipment must be imported into Singapore within 6 months of the owner of the goods' first arrival into Singapore. 
•    If shipment arrives more than 6 months after owner of the goods' employment pass (EP) into Singapore, shipment is subject to 7% goods and services tax (GST) on the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value. 
•    Returning Singaporean residents should be away for more than 6 months to get 7% GST relief.
•    Embassy, high commission, Consulate or accredited trade organization in and owner of the goods who have been accorded diplomatic and consular privileges and immunities by the Singapore Government are eligible for duty exemption and GST relief on all goods that are for the personal or official use of the owner of the goods  or organization; an exemption permit is required to cover the import of such goods but the organization and its authorized claimants have to be first registered with Customs.
•    A failure to declare all items or pay taxes due may result in prosecution, fines, and/or imprisonment.

If a complete House hold goods is arriving through sea or Airport then its always good to engage a professional mover to clear and deliver the goods to the Clients home. *****

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