Singapore Customs Guide Household Goods, Vehicles, Pets & Restricted Items

Important: This Singapore customs guide provides detailed rules for individuals and families planning international moving or overseas relocations to Singapore. The country enforces strict customs regulations, environmental controls and import licensing requirements. Proper declarations are essential.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Singapore, including export packing, freight logistics, customs documentation, and door-to-door delivery across Singapore’s residential districts.

1. Moving to Singapore – Key Customs Overview

1.1 Duty-Free Import Eligibility

Singapore allows duty exemption on used household goods and personal effects if:

You are taking up residence in Singapore
Goods have been owned and used overseas for at least 3 months
Items are for personal use—not resale
Goods arrive within 6 months of your arrival

Important: New or undeclared items may attract customs duty or GST.

1.2 Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Singapore charges GST on new items, recently purchased goods and high-value products. Used belongings may be GST-free if properly declared.

2. Used Household Goods & Personal Effects

2.1 Required Documentation

Copy of passport
Bill of lading / airway bill
Detailed inventory list in English
Work visa, residency permit or employment pass
Declaration form for used household goods

2.2 Inventory Rules

Provide detailed descriptions—avoid generic terms such as “misc.”
Declare brand details for electronics and high-value items
Separate new or sealed items for GST assessment

H-H Relocations Tip: Singapore customs officers are detail-driven. A clean, itemized packing list prevents valuation disputes and inspections.

3. Importing Motor Vehicles to Singapore

3.1 Vehicle Import Rules

Importing vehicles into Singapore is highly regulated and expensive due to environmental and registration controls.

Vehicle must meet strict emissions and safety standards
Used vehicles may be prohibited unless exceptions apply
Certificate of Entitlement (COE) is required for registration
Duties, GST and registration fees apply

3.2 Required Vehicle Documentation

Original registration documents
Insurance certificate
Bill of lading / air waybill
Vehicle emission and compliance documents

Important: Vehicle importation in Singapore can exceed the value of the car. Most residents opt to purchase vehicles locally rather than import.

4. Bringing Pets to Singapore

Singapore enforces strict animal quarantine and species restrictions based on origin country.

4.1 Pet Import Requirements

ISO microchip
Rabies vaccination following approved timelines
Veterinary health certificate
Import permit from the Animal & Veterinary Service
Possible quarantine depending on origin

Pet Travel Tip: Quarantine periods and breed restrictions may apply. Confirm requirements well before departure.

5. Alcohol, Tobacco, Food & Restricted Goods

5.1 Alcohol

Alcohol imports are strictly controlled. Duty and GST apply to liquor, wine and beer, regardless of quantity. Undeclared alcohol attracts severe penalties.

5.2 Tobacco

All tobacco products are dutiable in Singapore. Importing cigarettes without duty-paid markings is prohibited.

5.3 Food & Animal-Origin Products

Regulated under Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and quarantine rules:

Meat, dairy and eggs require permits
Certain food items may be restricted depending on origin
Biosecurity inspections may apply upon arrival

5.4 Medicines, Chemicals & Controlled Goods

Certain items require import permits or licenses before shipment:

Prescription drugs and medical supplies
Aerosols, chemicals and hazardous substances
Weapons, firearms and ammunition

Important: Singapore enforces some of the strictest customs penalties in Asia. Declare restricted goods properly.

6. Prohibited Items – Do Not Ship to Singapore

Singapore prohibits the import of the following:

Illegal drugs and narcotics
Weapons, firearms and explosives without authorization
Chewing gum (commercial quantities and certain varieties)
Counterfeit currency and infringing goods
Endangered species items without CITES permits
Obscene or seditious publications
Vaping products and e-cigarettes

Penalties include fines, confiscation, and imprisonment depending on the offense.

7. Practical Tips for International Moves to Singapore

7.1 Moving from Toronto or the GTA

For a seamless international move from Toronto to Singapore, Home To Home Relocations recommends:

Begin documentation early
Separate electronics and declare high-value items
Avoid shipping undeclared alcohol or tobacco
Ensure carton numbers match your inventory list
Keep essential documents with you—not inside the shipment

7.2 Why choose a Singapore relocation specialist

Singapore’s customs and GST regulations are strict. Working with a qualified international moving company ensures:

Accurate customs declarations
Reduced risk of penalties or shipment delays
Destination handling and final delivery services
Compliance guidance for restricted and dutiable goods

Relocation Tip: Singapore’s customs inspection is meticulous. Incorrect declarations can lead to costly penalties.

8. Useful Official Links – Singapore

Always check the latest rules directly with Singapore authorities:

This guide supports your relocation preparation. Final import decisions rest with Singapore Customs and other authorized agencies.