Battery export process and pitfall avoidance guide in Manila

I. Pre-export preparation stage
Product compliance confirmation
Battery type certification: The Philippines has strict requirements for lithium batteries, which must pass international certifications such as IEC 62133 and UN38.3. Some products require Philippine BPS (Bureau of Philippine Standards) certification.

MSDS report: A required document, which must include Chinese and English versions, clearly stating the battery composition and transportation classification (such as UN3480/UN3481).

Packing specifications: Batteries must pass a 1.2-meter drop test, and the outer box must be affixed with Class 9 dangerous goods labels and fire prevention labels (Philippine Customs will focus on inspections).

Philippine import policy

Tariff rate: Lithium batteries usually have a tariff of 0%-5%, but are subject to a 12% value-added tax (VAT).

Import license: If the battery is used in communication equipment, etc., a special license from the Philippine DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) may be required.

2. Logistics and customs clearance process
   Transportation mode selection

Air transport: UN38.3 test report and air transport certificate (such as DGM report) are required. Some airlines prohibit large-capacity lithium batteries.

Sea transport: It is required to be packed according to the IMDG Code. FCL transport is easier to clear customs than LCL (the inspection rate of LCL in the Philippines is high).

List of key documents

Commercial invoice (indicate HS code: 85076000)

Packing list (mark net weight, gross weight, volume)

Certificate of origin (Form E can enjoy ASEAN tariff preferences)

Battery UN38.3 test report + MSDS

Declaration form for dangerous goods by sea/air (if applicable)

Key points for customs clearance in the Philippines

Qualifications of consignees: Local importers must have a BOC (Bureau of Customs) registration number, and imports in the name of individuals may be detained.

Inspection risk: The inspection rate of battery goods in Manila Port is about 30%, and 5-7 days of customs clearance time must be reserved.

3. Pitfall Avoidance Guide (Common Problems and Countermeasures)
   Certification and Documentation Issues

❌ Pitfall: Failure to apply for BPS certification in advance leads to return of shipment.

✅ Countermeasure: Apply for BPS certification through a Philippine agent before export (cycle is about 2-3 months).

Labeling and Packaging Errors

❌ Pitfall: Customs fines for not having fireproof labels on the outer box or unclear labels (common fines of US$500-2000).

✅ Countermeasure: Use bilingual labels in Filipino/English, and print “Lithium Battery in Compliance with IATA” on the outer box.

Logistics Delays

❌ Pitfall: LCL cargo is detained as a whole due to problems with other cargo.

✅ Countermeasure: Give priority to full container transportation, or request “Direct Discharge” when booking to avoid unpacking at the transit port.

Local Tax Traps

❌ Pitfall: Under-declaration leads to customs valuation disputes (Philippine Customs is sensitive to the valuation of battery cargo).

✅ Countermeasures: The invoice amount must match the market price, and the reference price of the Philippine customs can be checked in advance.

Terminal delivery issues

❌ Pitfall: Some areas in Manila restrict the passage of trucks, resulting in delivery failures.

✅ Countermeasures: Confirm the delivery time with local logistics companies (such as delivery before 10 am to avoid traffic control).

IV. Recommended Operation Suggestions
Partner Selection

Preferably choose freight forwarders with experience in dangerous goods operations in the Philippines (such as DHL Philippines, FedEx Custom Logistics).

Customs clearance agents need to be familiar with the SGL (Selective Green Lane) fast track application at the Port of Manila.

Cost Optimization

Use the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (Form E) to reduce or exempt tariffs, but it should be noted that the product composition of the certificate of origin must meet 40% of the regional value composition.

Risk Plan

Purchase marine insurance (with additional war insurance and strike insurance, strikes are frequent in Philippine ports).

Agree with the consignee in advance to share the demurrage (the free storage period at the Port of Manila is usually only 3 days).

Appendix: Emergency Contact Person

Philippine Customs Consultation Hotline: +632 8527 7855

Commercial Office of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines: +632 8844 3148

It is recommended to check the latest policy updates through the Philippine Customs official website (https://www.customs.gov.ph) before exporting.