If you are shipping a 20ft or 40ft container to the Philippines, you are dealing with what is known as Full Container Load (FCL) shipping. This is very different from small parcel or LCL shipments. FCL shipments are higher value, more tightly regulated, and much more closely monitored by Philippine Customs.
Whether your container is coming from China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam or any other part of the world, every FCL shipment must go through formal customs clearance in the Philippines before it can be delivered to its final destination.
For importers bringing in machinery, construction materials, FMCG products or mixed general merchandise, understanding how FCL shipping and customs brokerage work together is essential.
How FCL shipping to the Philippines really works
When a container is loaded at the origin port, it is sealed and shipped directly to the Philippines without being mixed with other shippers’ cargo. This makes FCL shipping ideal for high-volume and high-value shipments, but it also means that all responsibility for the cargo and its declaration rests with a single importer.
Once the vessel arrives at Manila, Subic, Batangas or Clark, the container is discharged and placed inside the port terminal. From that moment, it is under the control of the Bureau of Customs. No trucking or delivery can take place until the full import customs clearance process has been completed.
This is where many overseas exporters are surprised. Even if the container has already been paid for and shipped, it is legally blocked until Philippine Customs approves its release.
Why customs clearance is the most critical part of FCL shipping
Many companies focus on shipping rates, but in reality, the most important part of FCL shipping to the Philippines is customs clearance. A container that arrives on time but gets stuck in customs will cost more than a container that arrives a week late but clears smoothly.
FCL shipments are more likely to be inspected because:
They carry large volumes
They often contain machinery or mixed cargo
Their declared values are high
This makes professional custom brokerage in the Philippines essential for FCL importers.
How cargo type affects FCL customs clearance
The type of goods inside a container heavily influences how Customs treats it.
Machinery and industrial equipment are often reviewed for correct classification and valuation. Construction materials may require specific permits or product compliance documents. FMCG and general merchandise are checked for brand, quantity and labeling.
When a 40ft container contains multiple types of goods, the chance of inspection increases because Customs must confirm that everything has been declared properly. This is why FCL customs clearance Philippines requires detailed and accurate documentation.
The relationship between FCL shipping, HS codes and taxes
Every product inside your container must be classified using an HS code. These codes determine the import duty and VAT that must be paid before the container can be released.
Incorrect HS codes are one of the biggest risks in FCL shipping. If Customs believes the wrong code was used, they may issue a re-assessment or place the container on hold for inspection. This is where experienced customs brokers provide real value, as they understand how Philippine Customs applies classification rules in practice.
Why FCL importers need professional customs brokerage in the Philippines
For FCL shipments, even small mistakes become expensive. Storage charges, demurrage and inspection fees add up quickly when a 20ft or 40ft container is delayed.
A professional customs broker in the Philippines ensures that:
Your declaration is correct
Your HS codes are accurate
Your valuation is defensible
Your permits are complete
Your container moves through Customs as smoothly as possible
This is what protects your shipment and your cash flow.
If you are planning to ship or already have an FCL container on the way
Getting proper advice before or during shipment can save you thousands in delays and penalties. We are here to assist you from clearance to transportation to your designated area, if you have warehousing issue we are here to assist as well!
Speak to a Licensed Customs Broker and get expert guidance on your FCL shipment into the Philippines.