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.

Do I have to pay separate for shipping from China to Philippines?

For full details on our integrated shipping costs, please visit our FAQ page regarding China to Philippines shipping .

What if I need my items ASAP?

We offer expedited and air freight solutions for urgent deliveries. Read more on our expedited shipping FAQ .

Our Vision and Mission

Our Guiding Principles : Your Growth is Our Mission

In a global marketplace filled with immense opportunity, we see a landscape where the best ideas—not the biggest companies—should win. We believe that every entrepreneur with a powerful product deserves the chance to compete on the world stage. But too often, the sheer complexity of international trade creates a barrier.

That is where our purpose becomes clear.

Our Mission

To be the most trusted partner for growing businesses by relentlessly simplifying the complexities of shipping, customs, and international payments. We achieve our vision by handling every logistical detail with precision and transparency, empowering business owners to focus on innovation, growth, and serving their customers. We don't just move cargo; we clear the path for your success.

OUR VISION

To forge a world where global trade is accessible to every ambitious business, creating a level playing field where small and medium-sized enterprises can thrive without boundaries. We envision a future where your company's potential is defined by your passion and product, not by the challenges of logistics.

Mission - Most trusted partner for growing businesses

Vision - To forge a world where global trade is accessible to every ambitious business

What We Stand For

Protection first We act as your importer of record, shielding you from the complexity and risk of dealing with the Bureau of Customs directly. Compliance is built into every shipment.

Transparency No surprise charges. You're billed only once your cargo has arrived and is ready for pickup or delivery never before.

Access for everyone Importing isn't only for big players. We serve businesses of every size, and we deliver nationwide well beyond Metro Manila.

How We Work

Our model is simple and built for SMEs: your supplier ships to our warehouse in the origin country, we consolidate and handle export, and we clear your cargo through Philippine customs to your door. With nine Asian trade routes — China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore — and one accountable team, you get one partner instead of five.

The Team Behind Every Shipment

At the heart of HBK is our in-house customs compliance team, who handle accurate HS-code classification, supplier and document vetting, and the latest Philippine trade regulations. It's why 100+ businesses trust us with cargo worth hundreds of millions of pesos each year. Learn more about our team →

Looking Ahead

We're expanding our reach across the Philippines, with Cebu and Davao as priorities alongside Manila, so growing businesses everywhere can import with confidence.