Shipping Goods to Pakistan from the USA

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

Pakistan offers opportunities for both personal and commercial shipments from the United States, but it maintains a detailed and often bureaucratic import system. Whether you're relocating or conducting business, understanding Pakistan's customs regulations is crucial for seamless international shipping.

This guide explains the import process for shipments to Pakistan, including documentation, taxes, licensing requirements, and how an experienced international shipping company can reduce your international shipping cost and ensure affordable shipping from the USA.

Key Facts About Importing to Pakistan

All imports are governed by the Pakistan Customs Act and enforced by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Many goods are subject to customs duty, sales tax (18%), and other surcharges.
Certain items are prohibited or restricted, requiring licenses or approvals.
Personal effects and household goods can be imported under special concessions for returning residents or foreign workers.
All goods must be declared and cleared through licensed customs agents.

Working with a reliable international shipping company ensures documentation accuracy and helps manage your international shipping cost effectively.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Pakistan

1. Choose a Licensed Customs Broker or Importer

To import to Pakistan, shipments must be cleared by a licensed customs broker. Individuals and businesses alike rely on:

Pakistani-based customs clearing agents
Full-service international shipping companies that partner with local agents

These representatives are authorized to handle customs documentation, duty payments, and delivery.

2. Gather Required Documents

Pakistan Customs requires the following documents for all shipments:

Commercial invoice (clearly listing product details, HS codes, and value)
Packing list
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Certificate of Origin
Import declaration (Goods Declaration form - GD)
NTN (National Tax Number) for commercial importers

For personal shipments:

Passport
Inventory list
Proof of return (visa, exit/entry stamps, employment certificate)

Make sure all documents match exactly—discrepancies can lead to heavy delays or fines.

3. Duties, Taxes & Charges

Pakistan imposes multiple layers of import charges:

Customs duty: Rates vary widely depending on product type (often 10–30%)
Sales tax (GST): Typically 18%, applied on CIF value + duty
Additional Customs Duty (ACD): 2% to 7% for many items
Income tax (Withholding Tax - WHT): 5% to 6% for commercial shipments
Regulatory Duty: Charged on luxury or non-essential items

Your international shipping company can help calculate the full international shipping cost, including taxes and official surcharges.

4. Product Regulations & Restrictions

Certain items are banned or restricted under Pakistani law. Commonly restricted or licensed goods include:

Used vehicles
Mobile phones and electronics
Medicines and cosmetics
Food items and supplements
Firearms and security equipment

Some items must be pre-registered with authorities or obtain clearance from relevant ministries (e.g., Health, Commerce, Telecommunication).

Consumer goods must include:

Labeling in English or Urdu
Country of origin
Manufacturer/importer details
Expiry/manufacture date (for food, pharma, and cosmetics)

Non-compliance with labeling standards can lead to confiscation or fines.

Shipping Personal Effects to Pakistan

Pakistan allows duty and tax concessions for returning Pakistani citizens who have stayed abroad for over two years. This includes:

Used personal household items
1 appliance of each type (e.g., one TV, one refrigerator)
One vehicle under the personal baggage scheme (subject to specific conditions)

Eligibility:

Valid Pakistani passport
Proof of stay abroad (minimum 700 days in 3 years)
Goods not intended for resale
Items must be imported within 60 days of return

Required Documents:

Passport with visa stamps
Airline ticket
Inventory list
Declaration of ownership and usage

Some electronics or new items may still be taxable. Your international shipping company can help you classify goods for maximum relief.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements

All consumer goods must meet Pakistani import labeling laws. Required label details include:

Product name and specifications
Net weight or quantity (metric units)
Manufacturer/importer contact info
Country of origin
Safety information
Expiry/manufacturing dates (where applicable)

Wooden crates and pallets must comply with ISPM 15 international standards to prevent pest contamination.

Who Can Help?

Work with a Local Customs Broker or International Shipping Partner

Licensed agents will:

Submit the Goods Declaration via Pakistan Customs' WeBOC system
Pay duties and taxes on your behalf
Coordinate inspections and delivery
Advise on restricted goods and exemptions

Partnering with an international shipping company is the best way to ensure affordable shipping and full regulatory compliance.

Final Import Checklist for Pakistan

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Customs broker	All shipments	Required to submit the GD form and clear goods
Goods Declaration (GD)	All imports	Filed via the WeBOC system
Customs duty (0–30%)	All goods	Depends on the HS code
Sales tax (18%)	Most items	Applied on CIF + duty
Additional/custom taxes	Many goods	Includes ACD, WHT, and regulatory taxes
Product labeling in Urdu/English	Consumer goods	Mandatory for clearance
Personal effects exemption	Eligible residents	Must meet stay duration and usage requirements
ISPM 15 compliance	Wooden packaging	Required for pallets and crates

Conclusion: Shipping to Pakistan from the USA

Importing into Pakistan is achievable, but requires careful documentation, knowledge of tax rules, and awareness of restricted items. Mistakes can be costly, so preparation is key.

By working with a professional international shipping company, you can reduce stress, lower your international shipping cost, and enjoy affordable shipping for both personal and commercial deliveries.