Shipping Goods from the USA to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

If you're preparing for international shipping to Saudi Arabia—whether you're a business or an individual—it's important to understand the Kingdom’s import regulations. Saudi Arabia maintains strict customs clearance procedures and product compliance requirements, and getting them right is essential to avoid delays and fines.

This guide is designed for those shipping from the United States to Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re sending household goods, commercial cargo, or e-commerce merchandise, working with a reliable international shipping company and understanding your responsibilities upfront can significantly reduce your international shipping costs.

Key Facts About Importing to Saudi Arabia

All shipments entering the country must be pre-registered in the SABER system.
Certificates of Conformity (CoC) and product labeling are mandatory for most items.
Import taxes include customs duties (5–15%), VAT (15%), and possible excise taxes.
Certain items—such as religious materials, alcohol, or pork products—are strictly prohibited.
Used personal effects and household goods can be imported duty-free under certain conditions.

Working with an experienced international shipping company that understands Saudi Arabian regulations is highly recommended to ensure smooth and affordable shipping.

Step-by-Step: Importing to Saudi Arabia

1. Get a Customs Registration (For Commercial Imports)

Businesses importing regularly must register with:

Saudi Customs (ZATCA): For tariff classifications and duty management
SABER: An electronic platform for product certification and shipment tracking

If you're importing on a one-time basis or sending personal effects, a registered broker or international shipping company can file on your behalf.

2. Prepare Required Documents

For all types of shipments, the following documents are commonly required:

Commercial invoice (or itemized list for personal goods)
Certificate of Origin
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Packing list
Copy of importer’s ID (business license, residency card, or national ID)
SABER CoC for regulated products

Your international shipping company can assist in preparing and submitting these documents to the Saudi authorities.

3. Pay Customs Duties, VAT, and Excise Taxes

Saudi Arabia applies:

Customs duties: Typically 5%, but up to 15% for some goods
VAT: 15% applied to CIF + duty
Excise tax: On products like tobacco, soft drinks, and energy drinks

The total international shipping cost may be significantly affected by these charges. Proper classification of your goods can reduce your liability.

4. Comply with SABER & SFDA for Regulated Products

Many imported goods must be pre-approved through SABER, Saudi Arabia’s compliance platform.

Categories include:

Electrical appliances
Toys
Construction materials
Cosmetics and food items

Food, beverages, and health products must also be registered with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA).

Failure to comply may result in cargo rejection, detention, or re-export at your expense.

Shipping Personal Effects to Saudi Arabia

If you’re shipping from the U.S. for personal use or relocation (e.g., expats, students, returning citizens), the process is more flexible, but still requires documentation and inspection.

You may be eligible for duty-free entry if:

The goods are clearly used household or personal items
You submit proof of relocation (e.g., visa or residency documents)
The shipment arrives within 90 days of your arrival in Saudi Arabia

Required Documents:

Copy of your passport and visa/Iqama
Detailed inventory list
Proof of ownership or use (optional, but helpful)
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill

Important: Saudi authorities may inspect your shipment. Avoid packing:

Alcohol or wine-related items
Religious texts not in the Qur’an
Gambling devices or games of chance

Saudi Product Labeling & Standards

To enter the Saudi market, products must meet GCC and Saudi national standards (SASO). Common requirements include:

Arabic labeling: The product name, ingredients, safety information, and country of origin must be displayed in Arabic.
SABER certification: Each regulated item must be approved prior to shipment.
Halal certification: Required for meat and poultry products.

Electrical products may need to comply with energy efficiency and voltage safety standards (220V, 60Hz).

Your international shipping company can assist with SABER registration and label compliance.

Who Can Help You?

Licensed Saudi Customs Brokers or Agents

They can:

File your customs declarations
Handle SABER or SFDA documentation
Pay taxes on your behalf
Coordinate port clearance and delivery

Alternatively, work with a U.S.-based international shipping company that specializes in Shipping cargo to Saudi Arabia. This is especially important if you're looking for affordable shipping with full compliance.

Final Import Checklist for Saudi Arabia

Requirement	Applies to	Action
ZATCA registration or broker	Commercial importers	File via broker or register directly with Saudi Customs
SABER CoC registration	Regulated goods	Apply for Certificates of Conformity via the SABER platform
SFDA product approval	Food, cosmetics, health products	Register products for health and safety clearance
Customs duties (5–15%)	Most imports	Paid on CIF value depending on category
VAT (15%)	All shipments	Applied to the total value after duty
Excise taxes	Beverages, tobacco, etc.	Applied as per tariff rates
Arabic labeling	Retail and consumer products	Label in Arabic with product and safety details
Used personal effects	Relocating individuals	Must submit visa/passport and detailed inventory
Prohibited items check	All shippers	Avoid banned goods like alcohol, pornographic materials, and gambling tools

Conclusion: Smart Shipping to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s import process is clear but formal. Whether you're a business or an individual shipping from the USA, compliance with documentation, taxes, and product standards is essential.

Working with a qualified international shipping company will simplify the process, protect your cargo, and help you minimize international shipping costs. From SABER and SFDA approvals to port clearance and local delivery, experienced partners can make the difference between frustration and success.

For truly affordable shipping to Saudi Arabia, plan early, stay compliant, and choose a team that understands both U.S. export and Saudi import systems.