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Shipping Goods to Egypt from the USA

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

Egypt is a growing destination for U.S. exports and personal shipments, with increasing demand for American goods and a busy import sector. However, Egyptian customs regulations are highly procedural and require specific documentation, pre-registration, and compliance with product standards.

This guide provides essential information for shipping from the USA to Egypt, including required documents, taxes, restricted items, and how working with an experienced international shipping company can reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping.

Key Facts About Importing to Egypt

Egypt’s import procedures are regulated by the Egyptian Customs Authority, which falls under the Ministry of Finance.
Commercial imports must be registered on the ACI platform (Nafeza) before shipment.
Most goods are subject to customs duties, VAT (14%), and other fees.
Personal effects may enter duty-free under specific conditions.
Product standards are regulated by the General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOEIC).

Working with a reliable international shipping company ensures document accuracy, proper customs handling, and better control over your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Egypt

1. Register on the ACI Platform (For Commercial Shipments)

As of October 2021, Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) is mandatory for all ocean shipments to Egypt.

• Exporters must register shipments via the CargoX blockchain platform.
• Egyptian importers are required to register their shipments on Nafeza and obtain an ACID number.
• The ACID number must appear on the Bill of Lading and all shipment documents.

Failure to comply with ACI rules may result in the rejection of cargo at the port.

2. Gather Required Documents

Required documentation includes:

• Commercial invoice (with product description and HS codes)
• Packing list
• Bill of Lading (must include ACID number)
• Certificate of Origin (legalized by an Egyptian consulate)
• Import permit or approvals (for restricted items)
• Tax ID of the Egyptian importer
• ACI registration proof (if applicable)

For personal effects:

• Passport
• Inventory list
• Residence permit or proof of return
• Shipping documents

A qualified international shipping company can coordinate both U.S. and Egyptian-side documentation and ensure consistency.

3. Duties, VAT, and Taxes

Imports into Egypt are subject to the following charges:

• Customs duties vary between 5% and 40% depending on the product type.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard 14% on CIF value + customs duty.
• Additional taxes may apply to select items, including tobacco, alcohol, and luxury goods.

Some U.S. products may be eligible for trade agreement discounts (e.g., QIZ or GAFTA exemptions).

Your international shipping company can help calculate the complete international shipping cost, including duties and taxes.

4. Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Common restricted goods in Egypt include:

• Food and dietary supplements (require Ministry of Health approval)
• Cosmetics and personal care products
• Electronics, wireless devices (may need NTRA approval)
• Used vehicles (generally prohibited)
• Books or media with religious/political content (subject to censorship)

Product labeling must be in Arabic and include:

• Product name, manufacturer, and importer
• Country of origin
• Expiry/manufacture date (for consumables)
• Instructions and warnings (where applicable)

Shipping Personal Effects to Egypt

You may import used personal items and household goods under reduced duties or tax exemptions if you’re returning or relocating to Egypt.

To Qualify:

• Goods must be used, not for resale, and personally owned
• You are returning to Egypt permanently or with a long-term residence visa
• Shipment arrives within 6 months of your arrival

Required Documents:

• Passport
• Inventory list (Arabic/English)
• Residence/work permit or Egyptian ID
• Airline ticket or proof of travel
• Customs exemption request form

New or high-value items may still be subject to tax. Used electronics may also be taxed if considered non-essential.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Egypt enforces strict labeling rules, especially for consumer goods:

• Labels must be in Arabic (bilingual allowed)
• Must include product description, country of origin, and specifications
• Food, pharma, and cosmetics must display expiry and manufacturing dates
• Metric units are mandatory
• Manufacturer/importer info must be included

All wood packaging (pallets, crates) must comply with ISPM 15. Heat-treated and stamped packaging is required, or it may be rejected or fumigated at the port.

Who Can Help?

Use a Licensed Customs Broker or International Shipping Partner

Working with a licensed Egyptian customs broker or a full-service international shipping company will:

• Register shipments on ACI/Nafeza
• Legalize and verify documents
• Handle duties, VAT payments, and inspections
• Deliver your goods across Egypt

A knowledgeable partner ensures affordable shipping and fast, legal import clearance.

Final Import Checklist for Egypt

Conclusion: Shipping to Egypt from the USA

Shipping to Egypt requires careful planning, especially for commercial cargo subject to ACI rules. Whether you’re relocating or exporting goods, your success depends on complete documentation, proper labeling, and awareness of local regulations.

A seasoned international shipping company can help lower your international shipping cost, ensure compliance with Egyptian customs, and deliver affordable shipping to Alexandria, Port Said, or anywhere across Egypt.