When I started importing from China to the Philippines, one of the first hurdles I faced was getting an import license. Without it, customs clearance becomes impossible, and shipping delays (plus extra fees) are guaranteed. Here’s how I personally handled it:
1. Register with the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC)
To officially import, I had to register as an importer with the Bureau of Customs (BOC). This involved:
- Getting a TIN (Tax Identification Number)
- Registering my business with DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) or SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)
- Enrolling in the Client Profile Registration System (CPRS)
Without CPRS approval, customs won’t even process your shipments!
2. Know the Basic Philippines Shipping Tax Guide from China
Understanding taxes and duties upfront saved me from costly surprises. Generally, I had to prepare for:
- Import duties (rates depend on product type)
- VAT (12% based on landed cost)
- Other customs fees
Having a good Philippines shipping tax guide from China helped me budget everything correctly.
3. Request a Shipping Company Quote China to Philippines Early
Before even shipping, I asked for detailed quotes from different shipping companies. A good shipping company quote China Philippines should break down:
- Freight charges (by sea or air)
- Estimated taxes/duties
- Customs brokerage fees
- Local delivery fees
Knowing the full cost helped me avoid under-declaring, which can cause major issues with BOC.
4. Check if Special Permits Are Needed
Some goods—like electronics, health products, and food—require special permits from Philippine agencies like:
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
- DENR (Environment and Natural Resources)
- BPS (Bureau of Product Standards)
When in doubt, I asked my freight forwarder for guidance to avoid shipment holds.
5. Work with a Licensed Customs Broker
To speed things up, I partnered with a licensed customs broker. They helped:
- Prepare documents properly
- File entries into the customs system
- Clear goods faster
Especially during my first few imports, their expertise saved me serious headaches.
People Also Ask (PAA)
1. Do I need an import license to ship goods from China to the Philippines?
Yes, an import license registered with the Bureau of Customs is mandatory for official imports.
2. How much are the import taxes for goods shipped from China to the Philippines?
Typically, expect import duties plus 12% VAT based on the total landed cost, but rates vary by product.
3. Can a shipping company help me calculate total import costs?
Yes, good shipping companies provide detailed quotes including freight charges and estimated duties.
4. How long does it take to get an import license in the Philippines?
Registration with BOC usually takes about 2–4 weeks, depending on document completeness.
5. Can I import goods without a customs broker?
Technically yes, but working with a licensed broker speeds up clearance and reduces the risk of penalties.