When importing or exporting goods through Singapore Customs, every permit you declare may come with specific conditions or codes such as A5, Z18, or others. These permit conditions indicate special requirements, restrictions, or follow-up actions that traders or declarants must comply with.
What Are Customs Permit Conditions?
Permit conditions are system-generated or manually applied remarks attached to Customs permits to ensure compliance with Singapore’s trade regulations. They guide traders on what needs to be done before, during, or after the movement of goods.
Each code has a unique meaning for example:
- A5 – Supporting Documents Required for Audit Purposes
This means you must retain supporting documents (e.g., invoices, packing lists, airway bills) for five years for Customs audit or inspection purposes. - Z18 – Goods Must Be Presented for Inspection
This condition requires that the imported or exported goods be physically presented for inspection at a designated checkpoint or Customs facility before release or shipment.
Other examples include:
- A3 – Permit Number to Be Quoted on the Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
- Z14 – Goods Controlled by Competent Authority – Approval Required
- B6 – Goods for Temporary Importation Only
Common Customs Permit Condition Codes
Condition Code | Description | Key Action Required |
A3 | Permit number must be quoted on transport documents | Ensure bill of lading/airway bill lists the correct permit number |
A5 | Supporting documents must be kept for audit | Retain invoices, packing lists, and other relevant documents for 5 years |
Z02 | Goods may only be released after payment of duties/taxes | Ensure all duties and GST are fully settled prior to release |
Z06 | Goods require prior approval from Competent Authority | Obtain necessary approvals before import/export |
Z14 | Goods controlled by Competent Authority | Obtain necessary approvals before import/export |
Z18 | Goods must be presented for inspection | Physically present goods at designated Customs facility |
B6 | Temporary importation of goods | Goods must be re-exported or accounted for within permitted timeframe |
A8 | Payment of excise duty required | Ensure duty is paid prior to release of goods |
Z10 | Restricted items – special handling | Follow specific handling and storage procedures |
Note: This is a summary of commonly used codes. Always check the actual permit conditions on TradeNet and comply accordingly.
Why Compliance with Permit Conditions Matters
Failure to comply with these conditions can result in:
- Customs investigations or audits
- Delays in cargo clearance
- Financial penalties or compound fines
- Suspension of trading privileges
Even “small codes” carry significant compliance implications.
How Declarators Can Help
At Declarators Pte Ltd, we specialize in helping traders interpret and comply with these Customs permit conditions accurately. Our team ensures that:
- Each permit condition is read, understood, and acted upon correctly
- All supporting documents are properly filed for audit
- Controlled goods are declared under the right Competent Authority (CA)
- Physical inspection requirements (e.g., Z18) are coordinated efficiently
- You stay fully compliant with Singapore Customs regulations avoiding unnecessary fines and penalties
Whether you’re handling general cargo, controlled goods, or temporary imports, Declarators ensures your documentation, declaration, and follow-up processes are always in order.
Need Help Decoding Your Permit Conditions?
Don’t risk compliance issues let our experts handle it for you.
📞 Call us: +65 6385 2155
📧 Email: group@declarators.com.sg
🌐 Visit: www.declarators.com.sg
Declarators – Your Trusted Declaring Agent in Singapore.
