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

Introduction

Singapore is one of the easiest countries in the world to ship to from the United States. This city-state of nearly 6 million people at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula is renowned for its efficient customs processes, excellent logistics infrastructure, and trade-friendly policies. Singapore consistently ranks among the top countries globally for ease of doing business, and its import system reflects that reputation.

Singapore maintains one of the most generous de minimis thresholds in Asia, exempting goods valued under SGD 400 (approximately $300 USD) from customs duties. The country's Goods and Services Tax (GST) was increased to 9% in January 2024, and a new rule requires GST to be collected on all imported goods regardless of value when purchased from GST-registered overseas vendors. However, for direct personal shipments not purchased through registered platforms, the SGD 400 threshold still provides significant savings.

The Singapore Customs authority runs a highly digitized system with fast processing times. Most shipments clear customs within 1 to 2 business days, and Singapore's compact geography means last-mile delivery is rapid once customs clearance is complete. The US and Singapore have maintained a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (USSFTA) since 2004, which eliminates or reduces tariffs on many US-origin goods.

Best Carriers for Shipping to Singapore

USPS (United States Postal Service)

USPS offers excellent value for shipping to Singapore. Priority Mail International delivers in 6 to 10 business days, First-Class Package International Service handles items under 4.4 pounds in 7 to 14 business days, and Priority Mail Express International delivers in 3 to 5 business days. SingPost handles last-mile delivery within Singapore, and given the country's small size, domestic delivery is typically completed within 1 to 2 days of customs release.

UPS

UPS operates a major Asia-Pacific hub in Singapore, making it one of the most reliable carriers for this route. UPS Worldwide Express delivers in 1 to 2 business days, UPS Worldwide Saver in 1 to 3 days, and UPS Worldwide Expedited in 2 to 4 days. UPS customs brokerage in Singapore is efficient, and packages typically clear customs the same day they arrive.

FedEx

FedEx International Priority delivers to Singapore in 2 to 3 business days, with International Economy providing 3 to 5 day delivery. FedEx has a significant presence in Singapore and benefits from the country's world-class airport and logistics facilities. FedEx customs clearance in Singapore is typically completed within hours of arrival.

DHL Express

DHL Express is a dominant carrier in Singapore with express delivery in 2 to 3 business days. Their Singapore operations are among their most efficient globally, with customs clearance often completed the same day as arrival. DHL is particularly popular for business shipments to Singapore.

Shipping Costs and Transit Times

Estimated costs for a 5-pound package from the US West Coast to Singapore:

Singapore has no remote area surcharges since the entire country is a single delivery zone. Using atoship commercial rates can save 40% to 89% off these retail prices.

Customs, Duties, and Import Regulations

Singapore is known for its transparent and efficient customs system, making it one of the most straightforward countries to ship to.

De Minimis Threshold

Singapore's de minimis threshold is SGD 400 (approximately $300 USD) for goods imported via air or post. Shipments valued below this amount are exempt from both customs duties and GST when imported directly. This is one of the highest thresholds in Asia and significantly reduces costs for most personal and small business shipments.

However, starting from 2023, overseas vendors and electronic marketplace operators registered for GST in Singapore must collect 9% GST on all goods sold to Singapore consumers regardless of value. This means if you purchase from a GST-registered overseas platform, GST is collected at checkout and the goods enter Singapore without additional tax at the border.

Customs Duties

Singapore imposes customs duties on only four categories of goods: intoxicating liquors, tobacco products, motor vehicles, and petroleum products. All other goods enter Singapore duty-free regardless of value. This makes Singapore exceptionally attractive for importing electronics, clothing, cosmetics, and virtually every other consumer product category.

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Singapore's GST rate is 9% as of January 2024 (increased from 8% in 2023). For imports valued above SGD 400, GST is calculated on the CIF value. For imports below SGD 400 through non-GST-registered vendors, no GST is collected. The formula is: GST = 9% x (CIF value + customs duties if applicable).

US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (USSFTA)

The USSFTA, in effect since 2004, provides preferential treatment for qualifying US-origin goods. Since Singapore already charges zero duties on most products, the FTA's primary benefit is in regulatory cooperation, intellectual property protection, and services trade facilitation rather than tariff reduction.

Required Documentation

Standard documentation includes a commercial invoice or customs declaration, air waybill or postal documentation, packing list for multi-item shipments, and permits for controlled goods. Singapore customs is fully digitized through the TradeNet system, and most carriers file declarations electronically, resulting in fast processing.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Singapore strictly prohibits chewing gum (with limited exceptions for therapeutic purposes), firecrackers, controlled drugs, endangered wildlife products, obscene publications and materials, seditious and treasonable materials, reproduction of copyright publications and recordings, and any item resembling a weapon including realistic toy guns.

Restricted items requiring permits include pharmaceutical products, food and beverages, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radio communication equipment, strategic goods and technology, hazardous materials, and live animals and plants.

Singapore's ban on chewing gum is well-known and strictly enforced. Only dental and nicotine gum obtained with a prescription are permitted. Shipping chewing gum to Singapore will result in the package being seized and potential fines for the importer.

Packaging Tips for International Shipments

Singapore's efficient handling systems mean packages generally arrive in good condition, but standard international packaging best practices still apply. Use sturdy corrugated boxes, wrap items individually, and fill void spaces with appropriate cushioning material. Singapore's tropical climate brings high humidity year-round, so include moisture protection for sensitive items.

Label packages clearly with the full Singapore address including the 6-digit postal code, which is essential for SingPost delivery. Singapore addresses follow the format: Block/House Number, Street Name, Unit Number (for apartments), Singapore Postal Code. Include the recipient's phone number, which carriers frequently use for delivery coordination.

Tracking and Insurance Options

All carriers provide comprehensive tracking to Singapore. Given the country's compact size and efficient postal system, tracking updates are frequent and accurate. USPS tracking transfers to SingPost, which provides detailed delivery status including attempted delivery notifications. UPS, FedEx, and DHL maintain their own tracking systems with real-time updates.

USPS includes up to $200 insurance with Priority Mail Express International. Private carriers offer declared value coverage up to $50,000. Given Singapore's efficient customs and delivery systems, the risk of package loss or damage is relatively low, but insurance is still recommended for high-value shipments.

How to Save on International Shipping

Singapore's generous duty-free policies already make it one of the cheapest countries to ship to in terms of total landed cost. To save further, use atoship for commercial carrier rates at 40% to 89% below retail. Take advantage of the SGD 400 de minimis threshold by keeping shipment values below approximately $300 to avoid GST on direct shipments. Use USPS for lightweight packages under 4 pounds for the best value.

Ship during off-peak periods to avoid carrier surcharges. Consolidate items into fewer, larger packages since Singapore's customs processing is per-shipment. Ensure accurate HS codes and descriptions to prevent customs holds that can add storage fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shipping from the US to Singapore take? Express services deliver in 1 to 3 business days. USPS economy services take 7 to 14 days. Customs clearance in Singapore is typically completed within 1 day for standard shipments.

Do I pay duties shipping to Singapore? Singapore is essentially duty-free for consumer goods. Only alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and petroleum products carry duties. GST at 9% applies to shipments valued over SGD 400.

Is there a threshold for tax-free imports to Singapore? Yes, imports valued under SGD 400 (approximately $300 USD) are exempt from GST when shipped directly. However, purchases from GST-registered online platforms have GST collected at checkout regardless of value.

Can I ship chewing gum to Singapore? No. Chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore except for dental and nicotine gum with a prescription. Packages containing chewing gum will be seized by Singapore Customs.

How does the US-Singapore FTA benefit shippers? Since Singapore already charges zero duties on most goods, the FTA's direct tariff benefit is minimal. However, it simplifies regulatory processes and provides intellectual property protections for US businesses selling to Singapore.

Is Singapore expensive to ship to? Shipping costs are moderate, but the total landed cost is among the lowest in Asia due to zero duties on most goods and a high de minimis threshold. Singapore is one of the most cost-effective international shipping destinations from the US.