Do I pay import duty on EV chargers in the Philippines?

Not under the current EV incentive program - EV charging equipment lands duty-free, and completely built charging stations have an additional multi-year duty exemption. The exemption depends on correct tariff classification.

Do imported EV chargers need ICC certification?

Yes. EV charging equipment is a regulated electrical product. Each shipment needs a DTI-BPS Import Commodity Clearance (ICC), issued per Bill of Lading after inspection, before the units can legally be sold.

Should I import AC chargers or DC fast chargers?

AC wallboxes suit condos and offices and are cheaper and easier to handle. DC fast chargers suit fuel stations and fleets, cost more, and are under-supplied - a gap worth targeting.

How long does customs clearance and certification take?

Customs release is quick with clean documents, but the ICC adds an inspection-and-testing step, and units cannot be sold until it is granted. Preparing the ICC alongside the freight keeps the timeline short.

Do I need DOE accreditation to import a charger?

Importing does not require it, but operating a public charging station does. The operator registers and accredits the station with the Department of Energy under EVIDA, using certified imported hardware.

Do I pay import duty on e-bikes in the Philippines?

Not under the current EV incentive program - e-bikes, e-scooters, e-trikes, e-motorcycles, and their batteries land duty-free, held until 2028. The exemption depends on correct tariff classification.

Why can't I just ship e-bikes by regular courier?

Their lithium batteries are Class 9 dangerous goods. Couriers often refuse or heavily surcharge them. Shipments need UN 38.3 testing, correct labeling, and a Dangerous Goods Declaration; for volume, sea freight under the IMDG Code is the realistic route.

Do my customers need to register an imported e-bike with the LTO?

Light e-bikes and e-scooters used on private roads or bike lanes are generally exempt. E-motorcycles, e-trikes, and e-quads must be registered, carry a plate, and be ridden by a licensed rider.

Who registers a brand-new e-bike - the dealer or the buyer?

Under LTO MC VDM-2024-2637, the initial registration of a brand-new light electric vehicle is the dealer's obligation. If you import to resell, that responsibility lands on you, so price it in.

Can I ship spare e-bike batteries separately?

Yes, but loose batteries ship as UN3480, the stricter dangerous-goods category, with tighter air limits and often sea-only handling. Plan the packaging and documentation before ordering.

Your Guide to Exporting from the Philippines to Vietnam

Export to Vietnam Shipping Instructions – HBK Global Trading

Tap into Vietnam's rapidly growing economy. HBK Global Trading offers a streamlined, door-to-door sea freight service for Philippine businesses. We simplify the entire export process, making it easy and cost-effective to ship your goods to Vietnam.

Get My Free Export Quote See Our Process

Our Door-to-Door Sea Freight Service to Vietnam

We provide a comprehensive, all-in-one export solution. The core of our service is that we act as your official consignee, handling all the complex logistics and documentation on your behalf.

Our Service Includes:

Expert Consultation:

We help you choose the best shipping option (FCL or LCL) for your cargo size and budget.

Cargo Pickup:

We can arrange for pickup from your address anywhere in the Philippines.

Export & Customs Paperwork:

We manage the Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, export permits, and all other necessary documentation.

Sea Freight to Vietnam:

We handle the ocean transport from major Philippine ports (Manila, etc.) to key ports in Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, etc.).

Customs Clearance in Vietnam:

Our partners ensure your shipment clears Vietnamese customs smoothly.

Final Delivery:

We can complete the journey with final delivery to your recipient's address in Vietnam.

Getting Started: A Simple 4-Step Process

Client prepares and deliver the shipment to hbk warehouse

Ships to our

Philippine
Warehouse

Ships to our

Vietnam
Warehouse

1

Contact Our Team:

Reach out to our export specialists to discuss your products and shipping needs.

2

Receive a Custom Quote:

We will provide a detailed, all-inclusive quote based on your cargo's size, weight, and destination.

3

Prepare Your Shipment:

Ensure your goods are properly packaged for export.

4

Deliver to Our Warehouse:

Once scheduled, deliver your shipment to our designated warehouse in the Philippines, and we will handle everything from there.

Understanding Your Shipping Options

FCL (Full Container Load)

LCL (Less than Container Load)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does sea freight take to Vietnam?

Typical transit time is 21-30 days sea shipping from Manila to major Vietnamese ports, but this can vary based on the shipping line and route.

How long does air freight take to Vietnam?

Transit time is 2-3 days air shipping from Manila to major Vietnamese Hub, but this can vary based on the shipping line and route.

What documents do I need to prepare?

Your main responsibility is to provide accurate information about your products. As your consignee, we handle the complex documents like the Bill of Lading and customs paperwork.

Do you handle customs clearance in Vietnam?

Yes, we coordinate with our trusted partners in Vietnam to ensure your goods are cleared efficiently.

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Ready to Start Exporting to Vietnam?

Let us remove the burden of logistics so you can focus on growing your business. Contact our export team today for a free consultation and to get started.