Practical Trade Knowledge for Better Shipment Decisions

Classification 18 August 2026

Singapore Import Tax: GST, Duty and Customs Value Explained

Key Takeaways Singapore import tax is usually centred on GST, while customs duty applies only to particular categories of goods. The amount payable depends on the customs value, the goods’ classification, their origin and the documents supporting the declaration. GST is generally calculated on the customs value plus relevant freight, insurance and duty. Customs duty […]

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Customs Permits 18 August 2026

Food Import Licence Singapore: Permits, SFA Requirements and Documentation

Key Takeaways Singapore food imports are controlled through a combination of business registration, SFA licensing or registration, and shipment-level permits. The correct route depends on the food category, source, documents and intended use. Confirm whether the goods are commercial food imports and identify the relevant SFA category. Register the business with ACRA and activate the […]

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Customs Permits 18 August 2026

Dutiable Goods in Singapore: What Businesses Need to Declare

Key Takeaways Dutiable goods require careful classification, valuation and permit handling before they enter Singapore. The practical test is not simply whether an item is bought for business, but how it is classified and what customs rules apply. Singapore’s four main dutiable categories are liquor, tobacco, motor vehicles and petroleum products. Customs duty and import […]

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Classification 18 August 2026

Customs Declaration: What Businesses Must Prepare Before Filing

Key Takeaways A well-prepared customs declaration gives the authorities a clear, consistent account of the shipment. The work begins before any electronic filing takes place. Confirm the goods, route, procedure and responsible declarant. Prepare commercial, packing and transport documents that agree with one another. Support the commodity code, customs value and origin with evidence. Check […]

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Freight Forwarding 18 August 2026

Air Waybill Guide: What Freight Teams Should Check Before Cargo Moves

Key Takeaways An air waybill is more than a shipping label: it records the transport arrangement, the shipment details and the parties responsible for the movement. A careful pre-handover review helps freight teams find errors while they can still be corrected. Confirm the AWB parties, references and contact details. Check the cargo description, weights, dimensions […]

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Compliance Records 17 August 2026

Import Permit: What Singapore Businesses Should Know Before Shipping

Key Takeaways An import permit is part of the Singapore customs process for many goods, but the exact requirements depend on the product, shipment and intended use. Check permit requirements before the goods are shipped. Classify the goods accurately using the appropriate HS code. Confirm whether a competent authority controls the product. Keep invoices, packing […]

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Classification 17 August 2026

TradeNet HS Code Guide: How to Classify Goods Before Declaration

Key Takeaways Accurate classification is the starting point for a dependable TradeNet declaration, not a detail to be filled in at the end. Identify the goods by objective characteristics, composition and function. Apply the HS and AHTN structure in the prescribed order. Check Singapore controls, permits, duties and declaration requirements. Keep evidence supporting the selected […]

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Customs Permits 17 August 2026

Import Licence Singapore: Do You Need One and How to Get Started?

Key Takeaways Singapore usually regulates imports through permits and product-specific approvals rather than one universal import licence. The practical task is to classify the goods correctly, register the importer, prepare consistent documents and submit the right declaration before arrival. Check whether the goods are controlled, prohibited or subject only to standard customs requirements. Register the […]

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Customs Permits 17 August 2026

Custom Clearance Singapore: How the Process Works for Commercial Shipments

Key Takeaways Commercial shipments entering or leaving Singapore require accurate declarations, supporting documents and, where applicable, approval from the relevant authorities. Confirm the importer or exporter details before dispatch. Classify the goods correctly and check whether they are controlled. Prepare invoices, packing lists and transport documents that agree. Submit the appropriate permit through TradeNet and […]

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Classification 17 August 2026

Certificate of Origin: What It Is, When You Need It and How It Works

Key Takeaways A certificate of origin connects goods to the country where they were produced or sufficiently transformed. Its format, issuer and supporting evidence depend on the destination, product and tariff claim. Check whether the shipment needs preferential or non-preferential origin evidence. Distinguish the goods’ origin from the country where they were dispatched. Match product […]

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Classification 17 August 2026

TradeNet Singapore: A Practical Guide for Importers and Exporters

Key Takeaways TradeNet applications are easiest to manage when business registration, product classification, permits and shipping records are treated as one connected process. Confirm the business UEN and Customs account before arranging declarations. Decide whether the business will file directly or appoint a declaring agent. Check HS codes, controlled-goods rules, Competent Authority approvals and tax […]

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Classification 17 August 2026

Singapore Customs for Businesses: What Importers and Exporters Need to Know

Key Takeaways Singapore Customs compliance depends on accurate business registration, classification, permits, valuation and records. A clear owner for each step helps prevent avoidable delays and corrections. Activate the business identifiers and customs access needed for declarations. Classify goods before shipment and check for controlled or prohibited items. Prepare consistent permits, invoices, packing lists and […]

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