Two methods for customs clearance and tax payment in Singapore

 News    |      2026-03-09

Shangqin International specializes in providing one-stop DDP international logistics services for Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan

Method 1: (applicable to FCL)

1. Customers are responsible for customs clearance and payment of taxes. To do so, customers should log in to [tradenet.gov.sg](https://www.tradenet.gov.sg)

2. Upload invoices/contracts/bills of lading

3. After successful declaration, Singapore Customs will automatically deduct the fees from the account. (Inter-bank GIRO) The account will be debited.

4. After the deduction is completed, download the "Import Certificate".

5. This certificate serves as evidence for the customer to prove to IRAS that GST has been paid during the import process. The customer can use the GST amount indicated on this certificate as their "input GST" for declaration and deduction in their GST return.

5. Operational path link: https://www.customs.gov.sg/businesses/new-traders-and-registration-services/registration-services/authorise-a-declaring-agent/


Method 2: Customs clearance by agent (applicable to LCL)

1. Customs clearance company logs in to [tradenet.gov.sg](https://www.tradenet.gov.sg)

2. Customs clearance companies that have obtained import licenses can directly enter the customer's name to conduct agency customs clearance.

3. Upload invoices/contracts/bills of lading

4. After successful declaration, Singapore Customs will automatically deduct the fee from the account. (Inter-bank GIRO) The account will be debited.

5. After successful deduction, download the "Import Certificate"

6. This certificate serves as evidence for the customer to prove to IRAS that GST has been paid by your agent (logistics company) during the import process. The customer can declare and deduct the GST amount stated on this certificate as their "input GST" in their GST return.

7. The customs clearance company will calculate the taxable amount and charge the customer accordingly. (The customer needs to make a payment of the exact amount using a Singapore bank account.)

8. Monthly financial reconciliation ensures that tax payments and receivables are properly matched.