Shipping from Singapore to the USA: Rates, Times & Customs Tips

The United States is one of the easiest countries to ship to from Singapore, thanks to a high de minimis threshold and straightforward customs procedures. Here's everything you need to know.

Delivery Times

FedEx International Priority delivers to most US addresses in 2-3 business days. West Coast cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle) are typically faster than East Coast destinations.

FedEx International Economy takes 4-6 business days and offers savings of 30-40% over Priority.

US Customs: The $800 Advantage

The US has one of the world's highest de minimis thresholds at US$800. This means shipments valued at US$800 or less enter the US completely duty-free and tax-free. No import duties, no state sales tax, no processing fees.

This is a significant advantage for Singapore sellers shipping to US customers. Most e-commerce parcels fall under this threshold.

For shipments above US$800:

• Customs duties apply based on the HS code — typically 0-25% depending on the product category
• No federal sales tax — the US has no national VAT/GST (though some states may assess use tax)
• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) — 0.3464% of declared value, minimum US$31.67

Documentation Requirements

For shipments to the US, you'll need:

• Commercial invoice with accurate item descriptions and values
• HS codes — US uses the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), which extends the 6-digit HS code to 10 digits
• FDA Prior Notice — Required for food items shipped to the US (even personal gifts)
• FCC compliance — Electronics must comply with FCC regulations

Prohibited Items

• Cuban cigars and products
• Kinder Surprise eggs (choking hazard regulation)
• Certain food items without FDA registration
• Ivory and endangered species products
• Counterfeit goods

Tips for Shipping to the US

• Stay under US$800 when possible to avoid duties entirely
• Include the recipient's phone number — FedEx will call if customs needs clarification
• Use FedEx Economy for non-urgent shipments — 4-6 days is still fast for transpacific delivery
• Ship mid-week — Avoid Friday shipments that may sit over the weekend