Shopping from overseas has become second nature for many Singaporeans — whether it’s snagging fashion deals from Japan, buying the latest gadgets from the US, or stocking up on K-beauty essentials from Korea. But international shipping can be tricky if you don’t know where to start.
This 2025 guide provides a comprehensive overview of shipping items from abroad to Singapore, including cost breakdowns, helpful tips, and a list of prohibited or restricted goods, plus how services like Buy&Ship Singapore make the process easier and more affordable.
Why Ship Internationally to Singapore?
Here’s why more consumers are turning to cross-border shopping:
- Access to lower prices or exclusive items
- More product variety than local stores
- Direct access to official or niche brands not sold in Singapore
But challenges include:
- High international shipping fees
- Complicated customs regulations
- Retailers that don’t ship to Singapore
That’s where parcel forwarding services like Buy&Ship come in.
How Does International Parcel Forwarding Work?
Parcel forwarding is a service that allows you to:
- Shop from overseas retailers using a local warehouse address.
- The forwarding company receives your parcel and ships it to Singapore.
- You pay a consolidated shipping fee based on weight and delivery method.
With Buy&Ship, you get access to 11 overseas warehouse addresses, including Japan, Korea, US, UK, and more — with transparent pricing, tracking, and free package consolidation.
International Shipping Costs to Singapore (2025 Rates)
Shipping costs vary by method and provider. With Buy&Ship Singapore, you can choose between two main shipping methods:
1. Buy&Ship Shipping (Most Popular)
- First pound (lb): S$9
- Each additional pound: S$7
2. UPS Shipping (Express Option)
- First pound (lb): S$10
- Each additional pound: S$6
- Delivery time: Typically faster than standard shipping
💡 No volumetric weight charges — you’re billed based on actual weight only.
What Factors Affect Your Shipping Costs?
Several key elements can impact the final fee:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Package weight | The heavier your parcel, the higher the cost. |
| Consolidation | Combining parcels can reduce overall shipping fees. |
| Origin country | Distance and customs can influence delivery time. |
| Customs and tax duties | GST applies for parcels above a certain value. |
Singapore GST and Customs Rules (2025)
Singapore imposes 8% GST on imported goods if the CIF value exceeds S$400. CIF = Cost of goods + Insurance + Freight.
When is GST payable?
- CIF ≤ S$400: No GST
- CIF > S$400: 8% GST applies
📌 Some couriers may charge a processing fee when handling tax payments (e.g., UPS applies a service charge for GST processing).
For full details, refer to the Buy&Ship Singapore Taxation Guide.
Tips for Cheaper, Smarter International Shipping
✅ Use Parcel Consolidation
Combine multiple orders into one shipment to save on base charges.
✅ Shop from Tax-Free States (for US orders)
Buy&Ship’s Oregon warehouse is in a sales tax-free state, helping reduce costs.
✅ Declare Parcels Early
Once you get your tracking number, declare your shipment on Buy&Ship to avoid delays.
✅ Stay Under the S$400 GST Threshold
Plan multiple shipments if needed to avoid triggering GST.
✅ Use Buy&Ship Plus for Valuable Items
Optional upgrade offers higher damage/loss protection and return service from overseas merchants.
Common Prohibited and Restricted Items
Singapore Customs has strict rules regarding certain categories of imports. Here’s what you cannot ship (or must get approval for):
❌ Prohibited Items:
- Firearms and ammunition
- Explosives and fireworks
- Pornographic materials
- Controlled drugs and psychotropics
- Chewing gum (except dental/therapeutic)
📌 For the most up-to-date list of restricted and prohibited items, please visit the official Buy&Ship Singapore guide:
https://www.buyandship.com.sg/restrictions/#all
Why Use Buy&Ship for International Shipping to Singapore?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Transparent pricing | No hidden fees, no volumetric weight |
| Free consolidation | Save money across multiple orders |
| 11 global warehouses | Shop from US, UK, Japan, Korea, etc. |
| Real-time tracking | App + email updates for every shipment |
| Optional Buy&Ship Plus | Upgrade protection + return support |
Thousands of Singaporeans trust Buy&Ship to bring international shopping closer — affordably, reliably, and stress-free.
Start Your First International Shipment Today
No matter what you’re shopping for — electronics, fashion, beauty, or lifestyle — international shipping to Singapore is simple when you have the right tools.
👉 Sign up for free at www.buyandship.com.sg and start shipping smarter today.