Shipping Guide to Laos from Canada

Laos and Canada are both increasingly connected as investment and trade grows between the two countries. Both countries share an abundance of natural resources (including hydro power) and depend on international trade for a large share of their economies. Shippers are seeking solutions for shipping from Laos to Canada and vice versa.

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Shipping Guide for send to Laos from Canada

• Import process and tariffs for goods shipped from Canada to Laos
• Restricted goods to Laos
• Laos Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Required import documentation
• Common Canadian carriers options for shipping Canada to Laos
• Export declaration (CERS) for shipping high value from Canada
• Export requirements for shipping from Laos to Canada
• Common carrier options for shipping from Laos to Canada
• Canadian Import for goods shipped from Laos

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Disclaimer: The information in Jet Worldwide online content, including this post, is for general information only.

Import tariffs for goods shipped from Canada to Laos

Laos is a member of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and follows the global standards for classification, valuation, and assessment of duty. Customs duty is payable on imported goods as a percentage of their declared value.

Duty rates into Laos vary according to the commodity and the country of origin and are based on the commodity's 8-digit Harmonized System (HS) Code (which is in accordance with the ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature.

View the full Lao Tariff Classification and Tariff rates

Restricted goods to Laos

It is important to confirm with the receiver/importer in Laos that the goods being sent are authorized for import. Many goods require prior approval and/or import licenses. Articles that can be sent without written authorization of the Ministry of Industry and Trade include:

• samples
• articles of no commercial value
• art works, original, imported by their creators
• goods imported by the diplomatic and consular corps
• printed matter and press items not critical of Laos
• pharmaceutical products for medical or scientific purposes only (personal pharmaceutical products are restricted)
• many electronics - notably telecommunications equipment is prohibited
• clothing for wedding wear and school uniforms

Note: The import pharmaceuticals, food, or chemical products requires a license from the Food and Drug Control Import Division of the Laos Food and Drug Ministry of Public Health.

Laos Value Added Tax (VAT)

In addition to duty, most shipments imported to Laos are subject a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 10%. The VAT rate is assessed on the declared value plus applicable duty. Goods that may be exempt from VAT include some medicines, vaccines, and goods related to agriculture.

Most importers - including individuals, organizations and business are required to register under the Value Added Tax system to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).

The Lao import tax system aims to promote imports of inputs for investment allowing businesses to able to claim back VAT.

Required Documentation for Goods Shipped to Laos from Canada

The required import paperwork to Laos for shipments form Canada can include:

• Packing list
• Invoice and packing list
• Transport documents including waybill
• Depending on the type of good, an import license or permits obtained from relevant ministries.

READ MORE: IMPORT DUTY AND HOW IT IS CALCULATED

Best shipping option to Laos from Canada

The carrier options from Laos are essentially the same as shipping from Canada. 

There are a few options for shipping freight between Laos and Canada.

1. Air freight: This is the fastest option with economy air options
2. Ocean: Best for large commercial orders
3. Local post options are generally best for individuals shipping small packages and personal items to Canada
4. FedEX , DHL, UPS air options are well known with information readily available via their websites. 

When choosing a shipping method, you will need to consider factors such as the size and weight of your freight, the time frame in which you need it to arrive, and your budget. It may be helpful to compare quotes from different carriers to find the best option for your needs.

Shipping to Laos via Canada Post

Canada Post small packet shipping options offers the lowest cost for individuals shipping to Laos. 

Shipping to Laos via FedEx and UPS Canada

FedEx and UPS are North America's largest carriers and, along with DHL, offer reliable air shipping options to Laos.

Get a comparison international shipping rate

FedEx and UPS shipping options to Laos include:

• International express air shipping to Laos
• International economy air shipping to Laos

Shipping to Laos via Purolator

Purolator is a leading domestic carrier in Canada. They offer international shipping options via partner carriers, such as UPS.

International shipping to Laos via Jet Worldwide

Jet Worldwide partners with major international and regional carriers to provide unique shipping solutions from Laos to Canada.

• Jet Worldwide provides options for shipping between Canada and Laos for parcels, pallets and online orders.

Canadian export declaration for high-value exports to Laos

Goods valued over CA$2,000 (or otherwise restricted) must be declared prior to export via the Canadian Export Reporting Systems or CERS (B-13).

Shipping from Laos to Canada

Many Canadian companies need a solution for shipping product samples and other goods from Laos to Canada.

Export Requirements

Although a requirement by the Laos exporter, it is important for Canadian companies to understand the basic export requirements. Pre-shipment inspection may be required for exported goods.

When an export declaration is required, the required information may include:

1. An application for export declaration;
2. An import/export license (if goods are under control of the ministry or government);
3. An invoice of goods;
4. A packing list;
5. A certificate of country of origin and generalized system of preferences certificate of origin if applicable;
6. Phyto-sanitary certificate for food exports; and
7. Industrial products certification for industrial products.

The export of pharmaceuticals, food, or chemical products require a license from the Food and Drug Control Import Division of the Food and Drug Department of the Ministry of Public Health.

Importing to Canada from Laos

Canada assesses duty and taxes on using the harmonized system (HS) classification codes and declared value. Goods under CA$3,300 can benefit from express clearance processes.

The common import fees to Canada include:

• Duty
• Federal sales tax (GST)
• Provincial sales tax (PST) based on the destination of within Canada
• Carrier disbursement fee (usually around 2.5% of the value with a $15 minimum)

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