All you need to know about international shipping of auto parts

There are a few things to keep in mind when shipping auto parts internationally, primarily because of the potential for damage during transport. You'll need to take extra care when packing and shipping auto parts to make sure they arrive safely at their destination. The first thing to consider is the type of packaging you'll use as auto parts are often delicate and require extra padding and support to prevent damage during shipping. You'll also need to be aware of the relevant documents required by the country in which you're shipping the parts to as well as any potential restrictions on what can be shipped.

This guide discusses all you need to know about shipping car parts from the Philippines worldwide. This includes the countries that import the most automotive parts, the process of shipping these items, as well as the documents and permits required.

Popular car parts to ship

Globally, the auto spare parts and accessories industry is worth US$1.9 trillion. In 2021, the top 10 countries that imported the most car parts in 2021 are the United States, Germany, Mexico, France, Spain, Canada, the United Kingdom, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and China. In this list of countries, the United States is the largest auto parts importer, importing products worth US$20.52 billion.

Some popular automotive parts that are being traded include engines, transmissions, suspension parts, alloy wheels, tires, and more. Below is a list of vehicle parts and components that are commonly shipped by automotive parts suppliers and dealers:

• Engines
• Engine components
• Vehicular electrical and electronic equipment
• Steering wheels
• Suspension
• Brakes
• Transmissions
• Interior equipment and accessories
• Alloy Wheels
• Bumpers
• Tires
• Doors
• Headlights
• Windscreens
• Exhaust systems

How to ship auto parts internationally?

Shipping automotive components such as car spare parts from the Philippines to abroad requires knowing what items can be shipped, the documentation required, the taxes and customs duties applicable, and how to properly package these items. The following sections discuss how you can ship car parts from the Philippines.

1. Classification

Countries have different regulations governing the shipping of car parts. However, most countries consider automotive components dangerous goods. One needs to acquire special licenses and permits from the Philippines Customs authorities before shipping them out of the country. Moreover, before they can be shipped, all parts containing fluids such as radiator coolant, engine oil, brake fluids, fuel tanks containing petrol or diesel, and more must be removed as they are considered hazardous. For shipping hazardous items like these, a purge certificate which certifies that these products have been purged from all their fluid contents must be obtained. This is just one of the many required documents that you must obtain.

2. Required documentation

You must also complete certain documentation before shipping auto parts abroad from the Philippines. Typically, this includes the bill of lading, a packing list, a commercial invoice, export licenses, and other documents concerning the exportation of dangerous goods. The bill of lading is a document  that proves that the products were received by the shipping company. The packing list is a document that itemizes all the products being shipped and their corresponding weights and dimensions. The commercial invoice, on the other hand, is a document that contains the value of the products being shipped. While other documents concerning the exportation of dangerous goods involve the likes of a purge certificate that has been mentioned above.

3. Taxes and Surcharges

The taxes and customs duties are applicable depending on regulations of your intended destination. For instance, when shipping car parts to Europe from the Philippines, the European Union's (EU) customs regulations will apply. The value-added tax (VAT) rate in the EU is 21% while their import duty rates on automotive parts vary. It is best to check with your destination country's customs office for more information on their applicable taxes and tariffs. Also, do note that all shipments must include the HS codes and detailed descriptions of the contents, as the customs officials in the destination country will use the HS code of the product to calculate the duties which must be paid before the shipment is cleared.

4. Packaging tips

When shipping auto parts, it is important to use the right type of packaging. The car parts must be well-protected so that they will not get damaged during transit. For instance, items such as transmissions and engines must be shipped in boxes that are able to withstand the handling and moving around that is inherent in the shipping process. It is also important to use padding and other materials such as bubble wrap and packing peanuts to further protect the parts from damage. In addition, all items must be properly labeled with the required documentation so that the customs officials in the destination country will be able to easily identify the contents of the package and clear customs without any problems.

In addition, if you are shipping dangerous goods such as lithium-ion batteries (especially for electric vehicles) or flammable liquids such as coolants or brake fluids, it is important to learn how to ship each of these hazardous goods safely. 

Here’s a list of tips for packing car parts for shipping:

• Use heavy-duty corrugated boxes; for extra protection, use two boxes.
• Use appropriately-sized and shaped boxes that match the shape and size of the products.
• Wherever possible, disassemble the parts.
• Add adequate cushioning between the elements to minimize their movement during transit.
• Label boxes containing fragile items to ensure they are handled properly.
• Seal boxes with heavy-duty adhesive tape to secure their contents.

5. Finding a reputable shipping company

When shipping auto parts internationally, it is important to find a reputable shipping company that has experience in handling such shipments. The shipping company should be able to provide you with the necessary documents and help you with the customs clearance process. They should also be able to properly package the items so that they will not get damaged during transit. A reputable shipping company will also have insurance so that you can be compensated if your items are lost or damaged during shipping.

How DHL Express ships auto parts internationally

Shipping car parts from the Philippines requires an understanding of the items’ classifications, the required documentation, and the taxes and customs duties applicable. It is also important to use the right type of packaging to ensure that the products are well-protected during transit. This is why finding the right logistics partner is essential to ensure that your shipments arrive at their destinations quickly and safely. DHL Express is a trusted and reliable carrier that can help you ship your car components internationally within one to three days. We offer door-to-door delivery services, end-to-end tracking visibility, customs clearance facilitation, and other services to make the shipping process convenient for you. Open a business account today with DHL Express and find out how we can help you ship cars and automotive parts from the Philippines.