Shipping to Saudi Arabia Customs Rules Documents and Common Mistakes
If you are planning a move, shipping to Saudi Arabia can feel confusing at first. Customs rules are strict, documents must match exactly, and small mistakes can cause delays and storage fees.
This guide explains the customs basics, required documents, restricted items, and the most common mistakes people make when sending household goods to Saudi Arabia. The goal is simple. You should know exactly what to prepare before your shipment arrives.
If you are still planning your relocation, you can also explore practical expat guides on KSA Buddy for step by step help.
Who Can Ship Household Goods to Saudi Arabia
In most cases, personal household goods can be shipped by
- Expat residents with a valid Iqama
- Employees entering on a work visa
- Returning Saudi citizens
Customs clearance usually requires proof of residency status. If your shipment arrives before your Iqama is issued, clearance may be delayed until your residency is active.
Timing matters. Many delays happen because goods arrive too early.
Required Documents for Customs Clearance
Documents must match the shipment exactly. Any mismatch between the packing list and actual items can trigger inspection or delay.
You will typically need
- Copy of passport
- Copy of Iqama or entry visa
- Bill of lading or airway bill
- Detailed packing list with declared values
- Authorization letter for your customs broker
- Employment letter if requested
The packing list must clearly describe each item. Avoid general descriptions like personal items or misc boxes. Be specific.
For the most current customs framework, you can review the official Saudi Zakat Tax and Customs Authority portal.
Shipping to Saudi Arabia Customs Process
When your shipment arrives at the port or airport, it goes through several steps.
Arrival and document review
Customs officers review your paperwork first. If anything is missing, clearance pauses immediately.
Inspection
Shipments may be inspected. This can be random or triggered by unclear inventory descriptions. Boxes may be opened to verify contents.
Duties and VAT assessment
Used personal household goods are often exempt from customs duty when clearly for personal use and supported by valid residency documents.
New items may be subject to customs duty and VAT depending on type and declared value. Final assessment is made by customs at the port of entry.
Release and delivery
Once cleared, your shipping agent arranges final delivery to your address. Storage charges can apply if paperwork is delayed.
Customs Duties and VAT on Household Goods
In general, used personal belongings for relocation are treated more favorably than commercial imports.
However, the following may attract charges
- Brand new appliances
- High value electronics
- Large quantities of the same item
- Items still in original packaging
If customs believes items are for resale rather than personal use, duties will apply.
Always declare realistic values. Under declaring can lead to penalties or seizure.
Restricted and Prohibited Items
Saudi Arabia enforces strict import controls. Including a prohibited item can delay the entire shipment.
Commonly restricted or prohibited items include
- Alcohol and pork products
- Religious materials not compliant with regulations
- Drones without proper approval
- Satellite communication devices
- Weapons and ammunition
- Certain medications without prescription
- Adult material
Some electronics may require conformity approval depending on specifications.
Before shipping, confirm with your mover and verify with official customs guidance.
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
Most customs problems are preventable. These are the most common issues
- Shipment arrives before Iqama issuance
- Incomplete or vague packing list
- Sending prohibited items
- Incorrect declared values
- No authorization letter for broker
- Mismatch between documents and actual cargo
Each of these can lead to inspection, fines, or storage fees.
Final Tips Before You Ship
Keep these practical points in mind
- Wait until your residency process is clear
- Use an experienced international moving company
- Double check every document
- Avoid packing restricted items
- Keep copies of all paperwork
Shipping personal belongings to Saudi Arabia is manageable when you prepare correctly. Most delays happen because of missing documents or preventable mistakes.
