Shipping Goods to Cambodia from the USA

Cambodia Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Cambodia is an emerging trade destination and an increasingly common relocation point for expats and NGOs. Whether you're sending commercial cargo, personal effects, or donations, it's essential to follow Cambodian import laws and customs procedures.

This guide explains how to prepare for shipping from the USA to Cambodia, covering taxes, restricted items, required documentation, and how a trusted international shipping company can reduce your international shipping cost and ensure affordable shipping.

Key Facts About Importing to Cambodia

Cambodian customs are regulated by the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE).

All shipments are subject to customs duties, VAT (10%), and, in some cases, additional special taxes.
Imports must be supported by accurate documentation and may require import permits.
Personal effects may enter duty-free if conditions are met.
Customs clearance must be handled at approved ports or bonded warehouses.

A reliable international shipping company can guide you through these steps, reducing risk, delays, and extra international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Cambodia

1. Choose a Licensed Importer or Broker

A licensed importer in Cambodia is required to handle commercial imports.
Personal shipments can be processed through a local customs broker or facilitated by an international shipping company.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

You’ll typically need the following documents:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Import permit (if applicable)
Customs declaration form (CAMCUD/ASYCUDA system)
Certificate of Origin (optional for preferential tariffs)

For personal effects:

Passport
Inventory list
Proof of residence, work visa, or NGO registration (if applicable)
Letter of explanation or affidavit of ownership

Accurate descriptions and declared values are critical to avoid overcharges or seizure.

3. Understand Duties, VAT, and Taxes

Cambodia applies the following charges:

Import duties: Range from 0% to 35%, depending on product type
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Standard 10% on CIF value + duty
Special tax: May apply to luxury items, alcohol, tobacco, and vehicles

Tax exemptions or lower rates may apply under regional trade agreements (e.g., ASEAN or GSP programs).

An international shipping company can help you estimate your total international shipping cost and applicable taxes upfront.

4. Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Some goods require special permits or are banned altogether:

Medicines and health supplements – Ministry of Health approval required
Agricultural products and food – The Ministry of Agriculture or the Ministry of Commerce may issue permits
Telecommunication equipment and drones – Need registration or import licenses
Used electronics and vehicles – Heavily restricted or taxed

Prohibited items include:

Illegal drugs and narcotics
Counterfeit products
Obscene media or pornography
Explosives and military equipment

Shipping Personal Effects to Cambodia

You can ship used personal belongings and household goods if relocating to Cambodia. While there's no formal tax-free rule, customs often grants leniency for:

Used goods of low commercial value
Goods imported by expats, NGOs, missionaries, and returning Cambodians

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

There are no universal labeling laws in Cambodia, but imported goods for retail must typically include:

Product name and description
Country of origin
Expiration/manufacture dates (for consumables)
Metric units for weight/volume
Safety instructions (for electronics, chemicals)

Labels in Khmer are preferred for retail sales, especially for food, cosmetics, and medicines.

Wooden packaging must comply with ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and marked), or it may be rejected or fumigated upon entry.

Who Can Help?

Partner With a Cambodian Customs Broker or International Shipping Company

A professional international shipping company can:

Coordinate cargo pickup in the U.S. and delivery in Cambodia
File the required declarations with Cambodian Customs
Pay duties and taxes on your behalf
Handle last-mile delivery or port pickup

Their expertise ensures you meet local rules while achieving affordable shipping and avoiding unnecessary international shipping costs.

Final Import Checklist for Cambodia

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Customs declaration (ASYCUDA)	All shipments	Required for clearance
Import permit	Regulated goods	Apply through the Cambodian ministries
Duties (0%–35%)	Most goods	Based on HS codes
VAT (10%)	All imports	Charged on CIF value + duty
Certificate of Origin	GSP-eligible goods	Optional, may lower the duty rate
ISPM 15-compliant wood packaging	Wooden crates and pallets	Required for sea freight
Personal documentation	Used household goods	Needed to minimize taxes or qualify for exemptions

Conclusion: Shipping to Cambodia from the USA

While Cambodia’s customs procedures are less automated than some countries, most shipments can be cleared smoothly with accurate paperwork and local representation. Whether you’re shipping commercial goods, charitable donations, or personal effects, advanced planning is key.

A dependable international shipping company will help you navigate Cambodian regulations, estimate your international shipping cost, and provide affordable shipping from the U.S. with door-to-door support.