If you happen to be moving in or out of Egypt soon and need to know what type of fees and restrictions you’ll encounter, it’s important to do a bit of research.
While working with a qualified international transport company will give you access to their expertise, you should still know the basics of what to expect for yourself.
Here are the six tips you need to know before moving your belongings across the border - otherwise you could be in for a nasty surprise:
1. Use the right point of entry
Reputable sources such as Intermove Egypt recommend using the port of Alexandria to bring in your household goods and to steer clear of any other ports.
If you prefer to ship your belongings by air instead, then Cairo International Airport is the preferred choice.
2. Be prepared to pay for the items you want to bring in
In Egypt, import tax and duty exemptions for foreigners moving into the country are not universally provided. The one exception are foreigners who have a specific employment contract with a company (or government agency) within Egypt. To qualify for the exemption, you must show customs a Letter of Guarantee, a Work Visa that’s good for three months or longer, and a valid Work Permit. Once your employment contract is finished, all the goods you brought in that were exempted from taxes and duties must be exported.
This document states that you’ve deposited the necessary funds to cover the cost of the import taxes, duties, and fees you would otherwise have incurred. This money is held in escrow while you’re in the country and only returned to you once you export all of your items upon leaving.
If you don’t qualify for the import exemption covered above, then all of your items (even consumable goods) are subject to taxes and duties. The amount you’ll be charged can vary. You should also expect to pay for storage or demurrage (if necessary,) various processing fees, and even for the inspection itself. Additional charges may apply if customs officials have to inspect special items like foodstuffs, paintings, phones, or alcohol.
For up-to-date information regarding the exact amounts, contact Egyptian Customs before moving ahead with your shipment.
3. Inspection is due
A full inspection is typically carried out and audiovisual materials, in particular, are closely scrutinized by customs officials.
In fact, books, magazines, DVDs, Blu-Rays, CDs, MP3s, and so on take a minimum of three weeks to clear customs. The reason for this lengthy processing time is that customs officials will actually read, watch, or listen to all of your materials to determine if they’re suitable for importation into Egypt.
If you wish to avoid this type of extended wait, then you shouldn’t include any audiovisual goods in your shipment.
4. You’ll also pay when you leave
Exporting your items when you’re ready to leave Egypt also comes with its own set of exportation charges.
With the rules recently changed, a 10 to 14 percent export tax is now levied on household goods being shipped out of the country. If you received an exemption when bringing in your items, it’s not clear whether this additional export tax will apply.
For this reason, it’s best to simply contact Egyptian Customs for the latest information.
5. Restricted items that may surprise you
You’ll probably not be surprised to learn that goods like alcohol, tobacco, and firearms are restricted. Though you can bring in certain quantities of these or bring them in with permission, it is recommended you avoid doing so.
Some people have reported such items to cause trouble, while certain items carry astronomical import duties. A case in point is alcohol, which you’ll have to pay an astonishing 3,000 percent duty to bring into the country.
Phones, fax machines, printers, and scanners can only be imported if you’ve received prior permission. Also, perfume for your personal use is a restricted item, which will likely be news to you.
Therefore, take care when packing your shipment and seriously consider leaving these items out.
6. Have your documents in order
As with clearing customs in any country, you must have your documents in order, otherwise you’ll be in for some problems. Be sure to a have a detailed inventory of all the items in your shipment and to pack all audio visual materials near the door (for easy inspection.)
See here for a full list of the documents you’ll need.
Carefully organizing your paperwork and doing your homework on the various fees you’ll need to pay will ensure your shipment moves through customs without any issues.
Nathan Warren represents A-1 Auto Transport - a leader in their market segment. With over 20 years of experience moving vehicles and homes globally, A-1 is recognized for its experience, expertise, and stellar customer service.
Connect with them today through their website, Facebook, or Twitter.