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TradeNet is the system Singapore Customs uses for every import, export and transhipment permit. A permit is a declaration for one shipment, and you cannot clear cargo without it. This page explains the access route, who files, the published fees and the records you must keep. Facts were checked on .
What do you need before you can file on TradeNet?
You need two things first, and Singapore Customs treats both as required:
- A UEN (Unique Entity Number), which you get by registering with ACRA or another UEN issuing agency. Our guide to company incorporation covers that step.
- An activated Customs Account with Singapore Customs.
Customs says this applies to importers, exporters, shipping agents, air cargo agents, freight forwarders and anyone who appoints a declaring agent. If you only plan to buy and sell inside Singapore, you do not need it.
Who files the permit: a declaring agent or you?
Customs gives you two routes. The table sets them side by side.
| Appoint a declaring agent | File yourself | |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | None beyond your Customs Account | Register as a declaring agent and get a TradeNet user ID |
| Software | The agent's | Approved TradeNet front-end software, or the Government Front-End Application |
| Payment | The agent can use your GIRO if you authorise it | Your own Inter-Bank GIRO |
| Fees | Government fees plus the agent's service fee | Government fees only |
Customs warns that declaring agents may charge service fees and that these vary, so ask for the rate before the first shipment. If you are the owner, partner or director on ACRA's records, or an authorised person, you can authorise an agent to use your GIRO and your security for permit applications.
For a handful of shipments a year, an agent is usually simpler. For regular shipments, self-filing can save the agent fee, but you carry the compliance work.
How much does a TradeNet permit cost?
Customs updated its fee page on . These fees apply when you file your own permits:
| Item | Fee | Made up of |
|---|---|---|
| Typical TradeNet permit | About S$3.19 | S$0.90 statutory fee, S$2.29 processing and messaging |
| Certificate of Origin | About S$6.29 | S$4.00 statutory fee, S$2.29 processing and messaging |
| Export permit plus Certificate of Origin together | About S$9.27 | Permit S$0.90 and S$2.08, certificate S$4.00 and S$2.08, plus S$0.21 messaging |
| Official HS classification ruling | S$75 per product | Valid in Singapore only |
The fees do not include charges from freight forwarders or other third parties. Duty and GST are separate and are paid to Customs.
What do you pay on imports and exports?
Customs says imported goods carry GST, calculated on the CIF value (cost, insurance and freight, plus duty where it applies). Duty applies to four groups only: intoxicating liquors, tobacco products, motor vehicles and petroleum products. Everything else is non-dutiable and incurs GST only.
Exports are different. Customs states that GST and duty are not charged on goods exported from Singapore, but you must still declare them and hold the correct permit. If you plan to trade at scale, check our page on GST registration for when you must register for GST with IRAS.
What happens at the checkpoint?
Permits are issued with a validity period, so check yours is still valid when the cargo clears. For containerised and conventional cargo, Customs lists the same set of papers: the approved permit, commercial invoice, packing list and a bill of lading or air waybill. You also give the permit number when the cargo is lodged.
At Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, Customs does not allow partial clearance. Submit one permit per container or vehicle.
Is the HS code worth getting right?
Yes. The permit asks for an 8-digit HS code, and the code decides whether your goods are controlled. Customs lets you check goods by description, HS code or controlling agency product code. If you cannot be sure of the code, you can apply for a classification ruling at S$75 per product. For controlled goods, confirm licensing with the relevant agency before you ship.
What do you do if a permit has an error?
Customs says an unused import permit can be amended or cancelled on TradeNet, with a reason. Some fields cannot be changed when controlled, prohibited or dutiable goods are involved. Once the permit has been used for cargo clearance, amendment is generally not allowed, and you may need to lodge a Voluntary Disclosure with Customs. Wrong details can bring penalties, so check names, UEN and values before you submit.
How long do you keep the paperwork?
At least five years from the date the permit was approved. That covers documents on purchase, import, sale and export. Keep them as paper or as digital images, and be ready to hand them to Customs on request.
Is a TradeNet permit the same as a trade licence?
No. The permit declares a shipment. A licence or approval from a controlling agency is a separate permission that your goods may need first. Our import and export company guide covers the wider setup, including the Customs Account, GST trigger and what to open at the bank.
If you want a provider to set up the company or the Customs registration for you, use the quote form on the next page and we pass your request to suitable firms. This site is an independent guide and does not file permits.
Sources
- Singapore Customs: TradeNet: what TradeNet is and the permit types.
- Singapore Customs: Customs registration overview: UEN, Customs Account, declaring agents, GIRO.
- Singapore Customs: Permits, documentation and other fees: permit and certificate fees.
- Singapore Customs: Export operations overview: export steps, HS ruling fee, record keeping.
- Singapore Customs: Import procedures overview: GST, duty groups, permit errors.
