In recent years, with the booming development of cross-border e-commerce and foreign trade business, more and more Chinese toy enterprises have set their sights on the Southeast Asian market, especially the Philippines. Manila, as the economic center of the Philippines, has a strong demand for toy imports. However, for the first time contact with the whole container (FCL) export enterprises, shipping, customs declaration, customs clearance and other processes may be relatively unfamiliar.
Today, we will analyze in detail the whole process of exporting full container of toys to Manila, Philippines, to help foreign trade novice smooth customs clearance!
First, pre-export preparation: complete documentation in order to smooth customs clearance
Before the shipment of goods, the following documents must be prepared to avoid delays in customs clearance or additional costs due to incomplete documents:
Commercial Invoice (Commercial Invoice)
Detailed information of the goods, including name, quantity, unit price and total amount.
The company name, address and contact information of both buyer and seller should be indicated.
Packing List
Record the details of the goods in each container, including packing method, gross weight, net weight, volume, etc..
Ensure the consistency with the actual loading situation to avoid problems during customs inspection.
Bill of Lading (B/L)
Issued by the shipping company, it is the proof of ownership of the goods, and also the necessary documents for the picking up of goods.
It is divided into Telex Release and Original B/L, which should be chosen according to the actual situation.
Certificate of Origin (CO)
Certificate of Origin (e.g. FORM E) is required for certain commodities that are entitled to tariff preferences under the Philippines-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Other documents that may be required
Fumigation certificate (if the goods are packed in wooden packaging, fumigation is required)
Safety certification or test report (some toys may need to comply with Philippine import standards).
✅ Tips: Philippine Customs has strict requirements for documents, we suggest confirming the details with forwarder or customs broker in advance to avoid affecting customs clearance due to document problems.
Second, shipping booking and loading: to ensure the safety of goods shipment
1. Booking
Contact the shipping company or booking through the freight forwarder, choose the appropriate ship date and route (such as Shanghai/Shenzhen/Ningbo → Manila).
Confirm the transportation mode of FCL (20GP/40HQ, etc.), and get SO (Shipping Order).
2. Loading
Goods need to be arranged reasonably when loading to avoid damage during transportation.
Ensure clear markings on the outer box, including shipping mark, name, weight and box number.
Take photos to record the process of loading the container so as to provide evidence in case of dispute.
✅ Tips: It is recommended to choose “Double Clearance and Duty Paid” service (DDP), the freight forwarder is responsible for China's export customs clearance and Philippine import customs clearance, to reduce the risk.
Export Customs Declaration: Comply with the declaration to avoid inspection
Submit customs declaration information (commercial invoice, packing list, contract, customs declaration, etc.) at the export port in China.
Customs clearance after examination and approval, the goods can be loaded on the ship for shipment.
If you choose “Double Clearance” mode, the freight forwarder will act as a full agent for customs clearance, and the enterprise only needs to provide documents.
⚠️ Note: Toys need to confirm whether the goods comply with China's export regulations, to avoid infringement or prohibited goods.
Marine transportation: real-time tracking of cargo dynamics
After the goods are loaded on the ship, the shipping company will provide the bill of lading number (B/L No.), and you can check the logistics status through the official website of the shipping company (e.g. COSCO, MSC, ONE, etc.).
Sea transportation to Manila usually takes 5-10 days (the specific time depends on the port of origin and route).
V. Philippine import customs clearance: the key links need to be careful
After the goods arrive at the port, the following steps need to be completed:
1. Submission of customs clearance documents
Philippines consignee (or agent) need to submit to Customs:
Bill of Lading (B/L)
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
Import License (required for some commodities)
2. Payment of Customs Duty & VAT
Customs duty rates in the Philippines vary depending on the type of merchandise, usually 5%-15% for toys, plus 12% Value Added Tax (VAT).
You can check the rate through the official website of the Philippine Customs (BOC), or entrust the customs broker to do the accounting.
3. Inspection and Quarantine (if applicable)
Some toys may need to pass the inspection of Philippine FDA or related departments to ensure compliance with safety standards.
VI. Pickup and Delivery: Completing the final step
Upon completion of customs clearance, arrange for a trailer to be delivered to Manila Port (e.g. Manila Port or MICT).
