Shipping from Thailand to Singapore

Airplane and ships with cargo on board

According to UN Comtrade, the number of exports from Thailand to Singapore amounted to approximately US$9.53 billion in 2020.

Before shipping items from Thailand to Singapore, it would be good to understand the regulations, documents required and shipping processes involved.

Types of shipping methods

Air freight

Shipping via air freight involves transporting goods via an aircraft. This method is often quicker but more expensive as compared to sea freight.

Sea freight

Sea freight involves moving cargo via a sea vessel. This shipping method is more cost-effective but typically takes a longer time than air freight.

Are you unsure of the shipping method that would be more suitable for you? Get in touch with our team for advice today!

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Items commonly shipped from Thailand to Singapore

Some items that are commonly exported from Thailand to Singapore include:

  • Electronic equipment
  • Machinery
  • Gems and precious metals
  • Mineral fuels
  • Vehicles
  • Plastics
  • Organic chemicals
  • Cereals
  • Prepared and/or preserved meat and seafood products

Common items prohibited for export from Thailand

These are some items that are prohibited for export from Thailand:

Counterfeit royal or official seals
Counterfeit currency and bonds
Counterfeit trademark goods
Counterfeit royal or official seals not allowed for export
Counterfeit currency and bonds not allowed for export
Counterfeit trademark goods not allowed for export
Narcotics
Goods with an improper design of the Thai flag
Goods infringing Intellectual Property Rights*
Narcotics not allowed for export
Goods with an improper design of the Thai flag not allowed for export
Goods infringing Intellectual Property Rights not allowed for export

*Includes CDs, tapes, DVDs and computer software

Common items prohibited for import into Singapore

These are some items that are not allowed to be imported into Singapore:

Ammunition
Bank bills, currency (coin excluded)
Corpses, cremated or disinterred remains
Ammunition not allowed for import
Bank bills not allowed for import
Corpses not allowed for import
Fireworks
Ivory
Marijuana, including marijuana intended for medicinal use
Fireworks not allowed for import
Ivory not allowed for import
Marijuana not allowed for import
Hemp-based products (including cannabidiol [CBD])
Counterfeits
Explosives
Hemp-based products not allowed for import
Counterfeits not allowed for import
Explosives not allowed for import

Documents required for importing into Singapore

Before your goods are shipped, there are some necessary documents that must be prepared:

  • Packing list
  • Customs permit
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Commercial invoice
  • Payment terms such as Letter of Credit
  • Bill of Lading or Airway Bill

Process behind shipping from Thailand to Singapore via a freight forwarder

Freight forwarders are experts at shipping and have a network of shipping partners that can help you transport your cargo efficiently and effectively. 

Here are the steps for shipping from Thailand to Singapore via a freight forwarder:

  • Step 1: Contact a freight forwarder

    Contact a freight forwarding company and provide them with the following cargo and shipping details:

    • Date of departure and arrival
    • Address of origin and destination
    • Preferred shipping method
    • List of items with images (where possible)
    • Other additional requirements

  • Step 2: Gather relevant documents

    The agent attached to your shipment will collate the necessary documents and paperwork and send them to you for completion.

    He/she will also assist you with the payment of duties and taxes imposed on your goods (if any).

  • Step 3: Goods are transported to the warehouse

    The freight forwarding company will arrange for your goods to be transported to a warehouse once they have been packed.

  • Step 4: Goods are shipped

    Before shipping your goods, the agent will submit all the relevant documents and paperwork. Once your cargo has been cleared by the authorities, it will be shipped to Singapore!

  • Step 5: Goods arrive in Singapore

    When your goods arrive in Singapore, they will be inspected by the local authorities to ensure that the cargo matches the details of the documents. Any outstanding documents and bills will also be sent to your agent.

  • Step 6: Prepare to receive your goods

    After your goods have been cleared by the local authorities, they will be sent to a distribution centre where they will be dispatched for delivery!

Need more details on the shipping process from Thailand to Singapore? Contact us now for more information!

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Why choose M&P International Freights?

Extensive global network

M&P International Freights has a wide network of shipping partners from all around the globe. We will ensure that we find the fastest and most cost-effective route for your shipment.

Professional and experienced

Our team is SLA-, MTO- and FIATA-certified. Additionally, we are experienced in shipping all types of goods including bulky furniture so you can rest assured that we will deliver your items safely to you.

Holistic services

M&P International Freights is a holistic service provider with a wide range of shipping services. On top of transporting goods from one location to another, we also provide warehousing and relocation services.

Keen to find out how else M&P International Freights can help you? Send us an enquiry with your shipment details today!

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Frequently asked questions

The common shipping ports in Thailand are located in:

  • Bangkok
  • Songkhla
  • Laem Chabang
  • Phuket
  • Rayong
  • Sattahip

Depending on the shipping method chosen, your cargo may take 3 to 7 days to arrive in Singapore from Thailand.

The cost of shipping will differ depending on whether you choose sea or air freight. It is calculated by multiplying the air/sea freight rate by your good’s actual or volume weight.

Enquire with us for an accurate quotation today!

Thailand does not charge VAT on exported goods and duties are only imposed on certain items.

Send us an enquiry with your shipping details attached for more information!

In Singapore, all imported goods are subject to a Goods and Services Tax (GST). Duties are also imposed on certain imports such as alcohol and tobacco products.

You may refer to this list of dutiable goods for more information.