GLOBAL SELLING BLOG

How to ship internationally from India to Singapore?

Learn how to ship internationally from India to Singapore in this guide — from documents required and compliance to selling your products in Singapore.

In an age of rapid global trade and expanding e-commerce, efficient international shipping from India has become crucial for businesses seeking opportunities in dynamic markets. In recent years, the e-commerce landscape in the Asia Pacific has gained momentum, with Singapore emerging as a global hub with a thriving e-commerce ecosystem. Renowned for its strategic location and robust economy, Singapore stands as a pivotal trading hub in Asia, ranking as the 47th largest e-commerce market with a projected market volume of US$6,692.5 million by 2027¹.

Shipping from India to Singapore is not just about moving goods – it is a key gateway. Singapore is one of India’s major trade partners in ASEAN, and India’s 8th largest trading partner in the world². In this blog, we will explore the details of shipping from India to Singapore, offering a step-by-step approach for navigating this vital trade route.

Key parties/ persons involved in international shipping from India to Singapore

Shipping to India to Singapore is a collaborative effort involving multiple parties:

Exporter/shipper in India:

This is the originator of the goods, responsible for ensuring the products are ready for international transit and in compliance with export regulations.

Importer/receiver in Singapore:

The entity receiving the shipment, responsible for meeting Singapore's import regulations.

Freight forwarders:

Freight forwarders is a intermediaries specialize in logistics and transportation, helping shippers navigate the complexities of international shipping, including route planning, carrier selection, and freight consolidation.

Customs brokers:

Customs brokers are regulatory experts, they facilitate the smooth clearance of goods through customs, ensuring all duties and taxes are accurately calculated and paid.

Shipping companies:

They carry out the physical transportation of goods, whether by air, sea, or land.

Each of these roles is critical in the shipping chain from India to Singapore, and their efficient coordination ensures a hassle-free shipping experience.

Step-by-step guide to ship internationally from India to Singapore

To ensure your goods reach the UK without unnecessary delays or complications, it is essential to follow the below steps:

Assess shipping needs:

The first step involves understanding the nature of the goods being shipped, including their size, type, and quantity. This assessment will determine the most suitable shipping method.

Select a freight forwarder:

Choose a reliable and experienced forwarder. They should have a proven track record in international shipping to Singapore and be able to offer competitive rates.

Document preparation:

Essential documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/ airway bill, and any other specific documents demanded by Singapore customs. Accurate and thorough documentation prevents delays.

Customs clearance:

Both Indian and Singaporean customs have specific regulations. Ensure compliance to avoid penalties and delays.

Choose a shipping method:

Options include air freight for speedy delivery or sea freight for cost-effectiveness, especially for bulk shipments.

Track your shipment:

Utilize tracking tools for real-time updates on the shipment's status. This will give you peace of mind and allow the receiver to prepare for your goods’ arrival.

List of prohibited goods when shipping from India to Singapore

Businesses must ensure compliance when shipping to Singapore. It’s critical to be aware of items prohibited from shipment from India to Singapore. These include³:

Illegal drugs:

Strictly prohibited and subject to severe penalties.

Firearms and ammunition:

Shipping these without proper licensing is illegal.

Certain fresh foods and plants:

Due to agricultural regulations, many fresh foods and plants cannot be imported into Singapore.

Protected wildlife:

Includes any endangered species under international law.

Counterfeit goods:

Strictly monitored and prohibited.

For a comprehensive list, consult the Singapore Customs website³.

Ship from India to Singapore with Amazon Global Selling

With Amazon global logistics, Indian exporters can send their shipments across the world via Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). To assist global sellers and exporters deliver international orders in a hassle-free and seamless way, Amazon takes care of everything from packing, shipping to delivery and customer service through the FBA program. With FBA, sellers can focus on their business expansion in terms of product quality, launches, marketing and more, while Amazon handles international shipping for them.

To export from India, register with Amazon Global Selling in just 15 minutes by sharing a few KYC documents (identity proof, address proof and credit card). With millions of customers globally, you can leverage Amazon’s global scale across 18 global marketplaces. To support you for hassle-free logistics, Amazon has also launched SEND, enabling FBA sellers to ship directly to international fulfillment centers at competitive prices. All you have to do is book, pay and track shipments without any hassles from India to the world.

Explore Amazon Global Selling SEND

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shipping from India to Singapore take?

Shipping duration varies based on the shipping method. Air freight is quicker, taking about 2-5 days, depending on service level and airline schedules. Sea freight is more time-consuming. It typically taking about 10-20 days, and is influenced by factors like vessel schedules and the specific sea route taken. Remember to also consider time taken for customs clearance and inland transportation in both countries, which can add to the overall transit time.

Can you courier medicines from India to Singapore?

Yes, medicines can be couriered from India to Singapore, but it requires careful adherence to regulatory requirements. Necessary documentation includes a valid prescription, a medical certificate, and sometimes approval from health authorities in both India and Singapore. Couriers also require specific packaging and labeling to ensure safety and compliance. Check the latest guidelines from health ministries or customs authorities of both countries to avoid any legal issues or shipment rejections.

What are the courier charges from India to Singapore?

Courier charges depend on the service provider, weight, dimensions of the package, and shipping mode. Use online calculators provided by courier companies for an estimate, or contact them directly for a quote, especially for bulky or heavy shipments which might require special handling or additional services.

What items can be couriered from India to Singapore?

A range of items can be couriered from India to Singapore, including personal effects like clothes, books, and household items, commercial goods such as electronics, machinery, and textiles, and specialized items like artworks or scientific equipment. However, there are restrictions on certain items: illegal substances, firearms and ammunition, perishable foods, live animals, and inflammable items are generally prohibited. Make sure to check the latest customs regulations of both countries before shipping, as certain items might require special permits or are subject to specific restrictions or duties.

What is the cheapest way to send a package from India to Singapore?

This depends on the package’s size and weight. For larger and heavier shipments, sea freight is usually the most cost-effective option. For smaller packages, economy services provided by courier companies can be affordable, offering a balance between cost and speed. Compare quotes from different service providers and consider consolidation services, where multiple shipments are combined, to help reduce costs. Always consider the nature of the items being shipped and the urgency of delivery when choosing the most economical option.

Published on January 30, 2024.

Sources:
1. https://ecommercedb.com/markets/sg/all
2. https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/pages?id=eyJpdiI6IlQyQ0ZQRlFpdWwxMFlDUnM4YWxMdmc9PSIsInZhbHVlIjoiOTFHaGhPbjd3UjIzSDcwblp2K1M0UT09IiwibWFjIjoiNGQ5ZjNiMzZhNDE1MGVmODEyNWMxNjA4ZThhMzM0YTQyNzQyYTgyYjc1ZjQ2MDkzNDRmMGUxYzk3MDZjYjVhNCJ9&subid=eyJpdiI6IlR6dkRBaU9KblBLUENcL2p0UGxBVDBBPT0iLCJ2YWx1ZSI6ImdkV0gwS0xCRldQdUgyK2VzR1JPN2c9PSIsIm1hYyI6IjNhZTA4YmIyZDZiNWMyOTgyZjAyOTczZjI2N2M1OWIwMDJhZjExNDRkNmEwNzU3NmNlYTFhOTQ2MmMzNzg0NjcifQ==
3. https://www.customs.gov.sg/

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