What you need before you start
- Receiver’s full legal name, address and working Philippine phone number
- Itemised invoice with truthful descriptions, quantities and values
- Proof of purchase or payment
- Permits or approvals for regulated goods, where required
- Tracking number and carrier contact
When duty and tax may apply
The Philippine Bureau of Customs states that goods with an FOB or FCA value of PHP 10,000 or less are generally not charged duty and tax under the de minimis rule. The threshold looks at the value of the goods under the customs valuation basis—not a vague “no commercial value” label.
Goods above PHP 10,000 can attract duty and tax based on classification and value. Current processing charges may also apply, including to some de minimis shipments cleared through a third party. Ask the carrier for a breakdown rather than assuming the shipping price includes import charges.
Why a parcel is held by customs
A hold does not always mean seizure. The Bureau of Customs lists missing invoices, proof of payment and permits among common reasons a parcel needs more review. Under-declared or unclear descriptions also slow valuation.
- Reply through the carrier’s verified channel
- Send complete documents together
- Ask which agency permit is missing, if any
- Do not send payment to an individual account
Describe the contents clearly
Write “two cotton shirts” or “one used Samsung phone with battery installed”, not “personal effects” or “gift items”. State the real purchase or reasonable used value. For batteries, medicines, food, cosmetics and other controlled goods, confirm acceptance before pickup.
For commercial shipments
Commercial quantity, resale stock and higher-value goods may need a formal entry, importer registration and product-specific permits. Confirm the Philippine importer’s readiness before the goods leave Dubai. A parcel courier can transport the shipment, but it cannot replace the importer’s legal requirements.
Receiver clearance checklist
| Check | What to prepare |
|---|---|
| Identity | Valid government ID and matching consignee details |
| Value | Invoice, receipt and proof of payment |
| Contents | Specific description, quantity and condition |
| Controlled goods | Permit or agency approval where required |
| Charges | Customs declaration or carrier breakdown |
Official sources to verify
We use primary government, customs, chamber and carrier sources where available. See our shipping-content review policy.