What Documents Are Required for Exporting Heavy Machinery from Singapore?
Exporting heavy machinery from Singapore can be a wonderful business prospect. However, the required paperwork can be quite intimidating, particularly if it’s your first time. Shipment delays, additional expenses, or customs issues can be the direct result of missing or incorrect documents.
If you plan to export heavy machinery Singapore companies often face similar challenges without proper preparation.
In order to keep you from experiencing these problems, we have provided a very straightforward and handy list of the main documents you will require if you are exporting heavy machinery from Singapore.
1. Customs Export Permit (TradeNet)
In order to export heavy machinery Singapore, the first thing you have to do is to submit an application for a Customs Export Permit via the TradeNet system. Every commercial export must go through this step.
The export permit is a way of communicating the following three points to Singapore Customs:
- that the goods are not prohibited or restricted export from Singapore
- that you comply with the relevant regulations regarding export control
- that you have paid all the necessary taxes, fees, and levies
The exporter needs to have a UEN registered with ACRA, an active customs account or through the appointment of a freight forwarder or declaring agent to submit the application. Once this document is given the green light, it will be used when your cargo goes through customs and the details must be identical to those in your shipment.
2. Commercial Invoice
A commercial invoice is a crucial piece of documentation for any export shipment. Essentially, it serves as the contract of sale between the exporter and the buyer abroad.
When invoicing for heavy machinery, especially when you export heavy machinery Singapore to overseas markets, the invoice must have the following details:
- Complete description of the machinery;
- Quantity and individual as well as total price;
- Country of origin of the goods;
- Terms of payment and delivery;
- Authorized signature and date of the invoice.
Since the customs authorities at the destination country use this document to determine the duties and taxes payable, it has to be very accurate.
3. Packing List
For commercial invoices, the main focus is on value, whereas a packing list concentrates on the packaging of the machinery.
Typically, this document contains:
- the number and type of packages
- the exact dimensions
- the weight per package
- a commercial invoice number
When dealing with large or oversized machinery, a detailed packing list facilitates customs officers and logistics providers in physically inspecting and handling the cargo more efficiently.
4. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
It mainly depends on the method of transport of your machinery, you must be either receiving:
It is a document that the carrier or the freight forwarder issues, and it is used as follows:
- An agreement to carry the goods.
- A receipt for the goods.
- Document of title to the goods.
If your buyer doesn’t have this document, it will be very difficult, if not impossible, for him to take over the goods at the port or airport of arrival.
5. Certificate of Origin
In some cases, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to verify the country of production. This becomes even more important when businesses export heavy machinery Singapore buyers intend to enjoy lower import duties under free trade agreements.
Normally, the authorised chambers of commerce are the ones issuing the certificate, and foreign customs may ask for it even if Singapore Customs does not require it.
6. Additional Documents You May Need
Sometimes, besides the main documents, you may be asked for:
Special Licences
Some machinery could be considered as controlled or dual-use goods. In such a case, you should get an export licence from the relevant authority before shipping.
Insurance Documents
Heavy machinery is a kind of cargo of great value. Getting insurance coverage is a way through which the exporter and the buyer can be safeguarded against the occurrence of damage, loss, or accidents during the time of transit.
GST Export Evidence
To apply zero-rated GST when you export heavy machinery Singapore, you must keep proper evidence that the goods have left the country, such as endorsed shipping documents and invoices.
7. Keep Your Documents Properly Filed
After exporting, businesses are required to keep all export-related documents for at least five years. Singapore Customs may request these records to verify compliance, so proper record-keeping is essential.
Quick Checklist for Exporting Heavy Machinery
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Need Help With Export of Heavy Machinery?
Shipping heavy machinery overseas is a complex process—but the most serious problems are preventable. With proper planning, logistics knowledge, and professional engineering support, your equipment can arrive safely and on schedule.
For businesses looking to export heavy machinery Singapore, working with an experienced machinery freight forwarding company like Jaberson Technology can make the process much smoother.
📧 Email: info@jaberson-technology.com
📞 Call : +65 6734 3992