Shipping Goods to the Philippines from the USA

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

The Philippines is a significant trade and migration destination for Americans, who ship goods and personal belongings across the Pacific. However, successful delivery depends on following local customs procedures and preparing the right documents.

Whether you’re relocating or conducting business, this guide provides everything you need to know about shipping from the United States to the Philippines. It also highlights how an experienced international shipping company can reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping from door-to-port or door-to-door.

Key Facts About Importing to the Philippines

Imports are handled by the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Most goods are subject to customs duties and a 12% Value-Added Tax (VAT).
Personal effects and returning residents may qualify for duty-free privileges.
The Philippines enforces strict labeling, product safety, and import licensing requirements.
Commercial shipments require Accreditation and an Import Entry Declaration (IEIRD).

An experienced international shipping company can navigate these rules and help you control your international shipping costs from the USA.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to the Philippines

1. Appoint an Importer or Licensed Customs Broker

Commercial shipments must be processed through an accredited importer and cleared by a licensed Philippine customs broker.
Personal shipments are typically handled by the recipient with help from an international shipping company or forwarder.

2. Prepare Required Documents

The documents you’ll need include:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice or packing list
Import permit (for regulated items)
Bureau of Customs Import Entry (IEIRD)
Certificate of Origin (for duty relief, if eligible)
Delivery receipt and goods declaration

For personal effects:

Copy of passport
Inventory list
Proof of residence or employment abroad
Affidavit of ownership
BOC Form 177 (Declaration of Exemption for Returning Residents)

All goods must be declared honestly. Falsified documents can result in fines or forfeiture.

Understand Duties, VAT, and Exemptions

The following taxes may apply:

Customs duties: Vary by product and HS code (5–30%)
VAT (12%): Applied to CIF value + duty
Excise tax: On vehicles, alcohol, tobacco, etc.
Processing and inspection fees

Returning Filipino residents and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) may bring personal effects duty- and tax-free under the Balikbayan Program, subject to specific conditions.

Your international shipping company can help assess applicable taxes and provide a complete international shipping cost quote.

Know Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Restricted items may require permits from agencies such as:

FDA Philippines – food, drugs, cosmetics
DA (Department of Agriculture) – plants, meat, produce
NTC – wireless and communication devices
DENR – chemicals, hazardous materials

Prohibited items include:

Narcotics, counterfeit goods
Pornography
Used clothing (ukay-ukay for commercial sale)
Hazardous waste or toxic materials

Shipping Personal Effects to the Philippines

Personal shipments are common and relatively easy with proper documentation.

You May Qualify for Tax-Free Import If:

You are a Filipino citizen returning after at least 6 months abroad
Goods are used for personal use and not for resale
You ship the goods within 60 days before or after arrival

Required Documents:

BOC Form 177 or affidavit
Passport with immigration stamp
Inventory list
Bill of Lading
Proof of overseas employment/residence

Multiple shipments and undeclared commercial goods may forfeit the exemption.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Labeling laws apply to imported consumer goods and include:

English and/or Filipino labels
Product description and brand
Manufacturer and importer details
Net contents in metric units
Expiration/manufacture dates (for food, medicine)
Instructions for safe use

Used wood packaging must follow ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and stamped). Non-compliant crates may be rejected or fumigated at extra cost.

Who Can Help?

Partner With a Philippine Customs Broker or International Shipping Company

Your international shipping company can coordinate:

Customs declarations and payments
Entry processing with BOC
Delivery of goods to the final destination
Personal effects clearance under Balikbayan rules

Professional support ensures affordable shipping and minimizes the risk of delays or penalties.

Final Import Checklist for the Philippines

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
BOC entry form (IEIRD)	Commercial shipments	Required for all imports
Customs broker assistance	All shipments	Recommended to navigate the local process
Customs duties (5–30%)	Most goods	Based on HS classification
VAT (12%)	All imports	Calculated on CIF + duty
Affidavit of ownership	Personal effects	Needed for tax exemption
BOC Form 177	Returning residents	Required for duty-free import
ISPM 15-compliant packaging	Wooden crates	Required for sea freight entry
Labeling (English/Filipino)	Consumer goods	Mandatory for clearance

Conclusion: Shipping to the Philippines from the USA

The Philippines offers a well-established customs system, but it can be document-heavy. By understanding import requirements and collaborating with a knowledgeable international shipping company, you can reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping, whether you're relocating household goods or shipping commercial cargo.