How to Ship from the US to Egypt: Complete 2026 Guide

Shipping from the US to Egypt can be a complex process due to the intricate customs procedures in place. With import duties ranging from 5% to 60% depending on the product category, and the need for an Arabic-language commercial invoice for all commercial shipments, it's crucial to have the right information to avoid delays. Packages lacking proper documentation face hold-ups at Cairo customs, sometimes lasting 2 to 4 weeks. Navigating these challenges effectively involves choosing the right carrier, understanding documentation requirements, and learning how to minimize customs delays that impact 30% of first-time shipments.

Carrier Options and Rate Comparison

Carrier Service Comparison

When shipping to Egypt, selecting the right carrier can significantly affect both cost and delivery time. Each carrier offers a variety of services with different transit times and costs, allowing you to choose based on your priorities.

• USPS offers a range of services from First-Class Mail International, which is cost-effective for lightweight items but slower, to Priority Mail Express International for faster delivery at a higher cost.
• UPS and FedEx provide expedited services with faster transit times, ideal for urgent deliveries.
• DHL is known for its strong network in the Middle East, offering reliable express services that balance speed and cost.

Best Value by Package Weight

Selecting the most cost-effective carrier depends largely on the weight of your package:

• For packages under 4 lbs, USPS First-Class Mail International is the most affordable option, though it comes with longer transit times.
• Between 4 and 10 lbs, USPS Priority Mail International offers a good balance of speed and cost.
• For shipments weighing between 10 and 30 lbs, DHL Express Worldwide is recommended due to its efficient network in the Middle East and Africa.
• For packages over 30 lbs, FedEx International Economy provides competitive rates, making it a viable option for heavier shipments.

Customs and Duty Information

Import Thresholds

Understanding Egypt's import thresholds is crucial for smooth customs clearance. Goods valued under $100 often benefit from simplified clearance, while those between $100 and $2,000 are subject to standard duty and VAT. Items over $2,000 require full commercial clearance, involving more detailed documentation and potentially higher fees.

Common Duty Rates

Duty rates in Egypt vary by product category. For instance, electronics carry a duty of 0-10%, while clothing and cosmetics can range from 20-40%. Books are exempt from duties, making them easier to import. Knowing these rates helps in calculating the total cost of importation, including duties and taxes.

VAT (Value Added Tax)

Egypt imposes a 14% VAT on most imported goods. This tax is calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, which includes the product's cost, shipping, and insurance. Understanding these calculations ensures accurate budgeting for total import costs.

#### Example Calculation

Consider a clothing item valued at $300, with shipping costs of $65 and insurance at $5. The CIF value totals $370. With a duty rate of 20% for clothing, duties amount to $74. Adding this to the CIF value gives a VAT base of $444, resulting in a VAT charge of $62.16. Therefore, total duties and taxes amount to $136.16.

Required Documentation

Proper documentation is essential for shipping to Egypt. This includes:

• Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23): Necessary for all mail shipments.
• Commercial Invoice: Three copies are required for commercial goods.
• Packing List: Provides a detailed listing of contents.
• Certificate of Origin: Can help reduce or eliminate duty.
• Import Card: Required for commercial importers.
• Release Order: Needed for commercial shipments processed through the Nafeza system.

Nafeza Single-Window System

Egypt’s Nafeza system aims to streamline the customs process for commercial imports. Exporters must register their shipments to obtain an ACID (Advanced Cargo Information Declaration) number prior to shipping. This system simplifies pre-clearance but applies primarily to commercial shipments. Personal packages typically do not require Nafeza registration.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Prohibited Items

Certain items are entirely prohibited from import into Egypt, including narcotics, pornographic materials, items offensive to Islamic values, counterfeit goods, and used clothing in commercial quantities. Other banned items include specific pesticides, gambling devices, and drones for civilian use.

Restricted Items

Some items face restrictions and may require additional documentation or approvals:

• Medications require a prescription and approval from the health ministry.
• Electronics like communication devices might need approval from the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA).
• Food products require a health certificate.
• Supplements need registration with the Ministry of Health.
• Weapons are strictly controlled and require a special permit.
• Alcohol cannot be imported via mail and is limited for personal use.

Addressing Format

Accurate addressing ensures successful delivery. Include:

• Full name in English and, if possible, Arabic.
• Building number and street name.
• Neighborhood name and city (e.g., Cairo, Alexandria).
• Governorate (e.g., Cairo Governorate).
• 5-digit postal code.
• Egypt as the country.
• Recipient's phone number with the +20 country code.

Delivery Considerations

Egypt Post

USPS packages are delivered through Egypt Post, which can add 3-7 days to transit times. Reliability varies, with better service in urban areas. Customs clearance may require an in-person visit, and notifications for pickup are sent via SMS or paper notice.

Private Carrier Delivery

Private carriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS provide more reliable services:

• Excellent coverage in major cities, though rural areas may be limited.
• Customs brokerage services are included.
• Multiple delivery attempts (usually 2-3).
• Full end-to-end tracking.
• Duty payments can be handled on behalf of the recipient.

Cultural Considerations

Understanding cultural nuances is important for successful shipping:

• The weekend in Egypt is Friday and Saturday, affecting business operations.
• During Ramadan, customs and businesses may operate on reduced hours.
• National holidays, especially around Eid, can cause delays.
• Business hours are often reduced during summer (June-August).
• Including an Arabic address can facilitate smoother delivery.

Tips for Successful Shipping to Egypt

Always include the recipient's phone number for delivery coordination.

Provide detailed descriptions of items to avoid triggering inspections.

Avoid shipping high-value electronics due to higher scrutiny and duty rates.

Use private carriers for valuable items to ensure security and reliability.

Plan for potential delays by allowing extra time for customs processing.

Ensure accurate valuation of items to prevent fines for undervaluation.

Consider using DHL for its robust network in Egypt.

Shipping with atoship

atoship simplifies the US-to-Egypt shipping process by offering:

• Discounted rates, saving up to 89% on international carriers.
• Instant rate comparisons across all carrier options.
• Auto-generated customs documentation with HS codes.
• Tracking capabilities through Egyptian customs.
• Support for navigating Egyptian import requirements.

Shipping from the US to Egypt requires careful attention to customs documentation and import regulations. DHL offers a strong network within Egypt, while USPS provides cost-effective options for lighter packages. Accurate descriptions, proper documentation, and understanding cultural factors are key to successful shipping. Use atoship to streamline the process and efficiently manage customs paperwork and carrier comparisons.