How to ship from Thailand to Singapore

When Thai businesses eye overseas shipping opportunities for growth, Singapore prominently figures as an unmissable market. The arena of international shipping becomes increasingly enticing as we navigate the nuances of shipping from Thailand to Singapore. This blog serves as an indispensable guide to break down the process and costs associated with such an endeavour, whether you're looking to send a parcel to Singapore, considering the cheapest shipping from Thailand to Singapore options, or pondering over how many days it takes to ship a package from Thailand to Singapore by air or sea. As we unravel the layers of Singapore customs declaration, import tax, and the essential goods to declare in Singapore, this becomes your one-stop destination for mastering the art of exporting to Singapore.

The Singaporean market: A golden opportunity for Thai sellers

Singapore, an emblem of diversity and economic prowess, emerges as a golden opportunity for Thai sellers in the panorama of international shipping. With a potent mix of a thriving e-commerce landscape and high purchasing power of its population, Singapore is a preferred destination for those planning to export to Singapore. The city-state's appetite for international goods amplifies the need to understand the intricacies of shipping from Thailand to Singapore to tap into this lucrative market effectively.

According to Trading Economics, spearheading the list of major imports of Singapore are machinery and equipment, crude oil, and a diverse palette of miscellaneous manufactures. However, meat, fish and other seafood preparations were amongst the top 10 Singapore imports from Thailand in 2022, with other food products such as vegetables and dairy items populating the list. A heightened interest in Singapore food imports — encompassing everything from Thai spices to chicken imports – amplifies the potential of shipping from Thailand to Singapore for businesses. The insights into the Singaporean market offer a roadmap to success for those keen to venture into the thriving sphere of exporting to Singapore.

Understanding the Singaporean buyer

The Singaporean buyers, known for their discernment, place significant emphasis on quality, exclusivity, and price while making purchasing decisions. This discernment fuels their preference for cross-border purchasing, enabling access to unique commodities not readily available on their home turf. For Thai sellers, this opens up an enticing opportunity to export to Singapore, thereby leveraging the potential of the international shipping landscape.

By delving deep into the realm of the Singaporean buyer behaviour and their predilections, businesses can enhance their chances of achieving success in this lucrative market. This understanding is instrumental, whether you're contemplating how to ship from Thailand to Singapore or calculating the shipping cost from Thailand to Singapore. 

Shipping from Thailand to Singapore: Things Thai sellers need to know

De minimis value for Singapore

Embarking on the journey of shipping from Thailand to Singapore requires careful consideration of several key elements. Understanding the de minimis value in Singapore – an amount below which goods can be imported without duties or taxes – is a vital first step for sellers. With effect from 1 January 2023, the import Goods and Services Tax (GST) de minimis in Singapore will be eliminated, shifting from S$400 to S$0. This alteration signifies that GST will be applicable to all goods, irrespective of their value. However, the duty de minimis threshold will remain unchanged, retaining its current status. It's equally important to be aware of the items that are either prohibited or restricted for import into Singapore, including sending specific varieties of plants, flowers and animals.

Prohibited and restricted goods for import into Singapore

When shipping to Singapore from Thailand, businesses must navigate carefully through certain regulations and restrictions. It's imperative to steer clear of prohibited items and diligently follow the guidelines for controlled and restricted items, which may necessitate specific authorisation such as advance notification, a license, or certificate approval prior to importation. A valuable tool for this complex process is the HS/CA Product Code Search Engine, enabling shippers to ascertain whether the items they intend to ship fall under controlled categories. By entering the item description, Harmonized System (HS) code, or CA product code, businesses can efficiently ensure compliance with Singapore's import regulations.

Customs regulations

Furthermore, a comprehensive understanding of Singapore customs regulations is indispensable for seamless international shipping. The necessary documentation for a Singapore customs declaration encompasses a commercial invoice, packing list, and either a bill of lading or air waybill. Certain goods may necessitate additional documentation or permits, underscoring the importance of being thorough in this process.

Sales tax for cross-border sales

Finally, familiarity with the mechanics of sales tax for cross-border transactions is a prerequisite. Singapore import tax is applied on all goods imported into the country, with certain goods being exceptions. In the context of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), goods traded between member nations, including Thailand to Singapore, may be entitled to reduced or even eliminated tariffs.

Understanding shipment value protection

In your journey to export to Singapore, safeguarding your shipment's value is a crucial element to consider. A trusted logistics partner such as DHL Express offers comprehensive shipment value protection to shield your goods during transit. This service ensures that you are well-covered in the unfortunate event of loss or damage, providing an extra layer of security in your overseas shipping endeavour.