When it comes to customs and permit declarations, selecting the right declaring agent is crucial to ensure your shipments clear customs smoothly, quickly, and in full compliance with regulations. While some agents outsource permit processing to overseas partners, this approach can introduce serious risks and hidden costs.
At Declarators, we believe local expertise, accountability, and compliance matter most. Here’s why outsourcing your permit declarations overseas may not be the best choice and why Declarators is your trusted local partner.

Local Expertise Means Faster, More Accurate Processing
Customs regulations in Singapore are specific and frequently updated. Agents outsourcing overseas often lack immediate access to the latest regulatory changes or urgent clarifications, leading to delays.
Declarators certified declarants work directly with Singapore Customs every day, ensuring up-to-date knowledge and faster permit approvals so your shipments keep moving without holdups.
Clear Communication and Real-Time Support
Outsourcing overseas usually involves communication barriers such as time zone differences and language issues, which slow down problem-solving and cause misunderstandings.
With Declarators, you get direct, transparent communication in English and Mandarin during Singapore business hours so questions are answered promptly and accurately.
Customs Competency Certification: A Legal Must
Singapore Customs requires all permit declarants to hold a valid Customs Competency Certificate. This certification ensures declarants understand local regulations and compliance requirements.
Overseas agents do NOT have this certification, making permit declarations done by them non-compliant with Singapore Customs rules. This can lead to fines, shipment delays, or rejection of your permits.
At Declarators, our team is fully certified and authorized by Singapore Customs, guaranteeing compliant declarations every time.
Local Accountability for Your Shipments
Working with Declarators means you have a local partner accountable for your customs declarations. If issues arise, you can reach us directly and expect timely resolution.
Agents who outsource overseas may lack accountability, leaving you without direct support or control over your shipments.
Efficient Document Handling and Delivery
Declarators offers on-the-ground document collection and fast local delivery services, ensuring your permits and customs paperwork reach the right place at the right time.
In contrast, overseas outsourcing relies on slower postal services or third-party couriers, which add unnecessary delays.
Reliable Support for Urgent or Complex Shipments
Urgent shipments like on-board courier missions or last-minute permit requests require speed, precision, and compliance.
Declarators local presence allows us to expedite permit processing and provide immediate troubleshooting, a critical advantage over overseas outsourced agents.

Conclusion: Choose Local, Certified, and Committed
Outsourcing permit declarations overseas may seem like a cheaper option but brings hidden risks: non-compliance, slower approvals, communication issues, and lack of accountability.
Choosing Declarators, a local and fully certified declaring agent, means faster clearance, reliable communication, and peace of mind that your shipments meet all Singapore Customs requirements.
🌐 www.declarators.com.sg
📧 group@declarators.com
📞 +65 6385 2155