Balikbayan Box from Singapore 2026: Cargo Prices, Sellers, Customs Limits

Sending balikbayan box from SG to Pinas is a Filipino tradition. 2026 rates and rules have shifted, eto ang up-to-date guide.

The big cargo companies in SG

Forex Cargo Singapore

• Box sizes: Small (~50x40x40cm), Regular (~60x50x50cm), Jumbo (~70x60x60cm).
• Rates 2026: SGD 130-180 (Small), SGD 160-220 (Regular), SGD 200-280 (Jumbo).
• Door-to-door: included to most major PH cities and provinces.
• Transit: 30-50 days (ocean freight).
• Pickup in SG: door-pickup available in most areas for SGD 20-40 extra.

LBC Express

• Sizes: Standard balikbayan box.
• Rates: SGD 120-200 depending on size + destination.
• Door-to-door: yes, with LBC's extensive PH network.
• Transit: 30-45 days ocean.
• Pickup: various LBC SG branches; door pickup additional.

2GO Express / 2GO Travel

• Rates: SGD 140-220 range.
• Transit: 30-50 days.
• Door-to-door: yes for major cities.

Atlas Shipping / JRS Express / Aerocargo

• Smaller players, often cheaper for specific routes.
• Rates: SGD 100-180.
• Transit: variable, sometimes 45-60 days.
• Door-to-door: check by destination.

Customs limits (BOC / PH side)

Per BOC ruling for balikbayan box duty-free privilege (Sec 4 of RA 10863. Customs Modernization and Tariff Act):

Above PHP 150,000: the excess is subject to duties and taxes (~15-25% range typical).

Note: customs now inspect 100% of balikbayan boxes randomly. Don't try to hide prohibited items.

What to pack (and what NOT to pack)

Pack these freely:

• Clothes (new or used)
• Canned goods (FairPrice, Cold Storage)
• Chocolates, candies, biscuits
• Toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, small quantities)
• Toys for kids
• Used electronics (single units typical)
• Vitamins, OTC medication (in original packaging)
• Linens, towels, household goods
• Pasalubong souvenirs

Don't pack these:

• Alcohol over 1 liter (limited, declarations needed).
• Cigarettes over 200 sticks.
• Fresh meat, dairy, fresh fruit, vegetables (biosecurity).
• Plants, seeds, soil.
• Cash over PHP 50,000 / USD 10,000 equivalent (declarable).
• Weapons, ammunition, knives over 4 inches.
• Counterfeit branded goods.
• Loose batteries (some packaging required).
• Spray cans / aerosols.

Packing tips from FIS readers

1. Pack heavy items at bottom. Books, cans, glass-protected.

2. Wrap fragile items in clothes. Saves bubble wrap costs.

3. Use sealed plastic bags inside the box for anything liquid (in case of leaks).

4. Don't overpack to the point the box bulges, risk of damage in transit.

5. List contents on a paper inside. Useful if customs opens.

6. Photograph contents before sealing. Insurance dispute backup.

7. Tape thoroughly, use proper packaging tape, not masking tape.

8. Label everything clearly, recipient name, address, contact, your contact.

Insurance + claims

Most cargo companies offer basic insurance (typically up to SGD 200-500 declared value). For higher-value items:

• Request additional insurance at booking.
• Cost: typically 1-2% of declared value.
• Document everything with photos before shipping.

Real costs vs alternatives

For comparison:

• Balikbayan box (regular): ~SGD 180 for ~25kg = SGD 7.20/kg
• Excess baggage on PAL/CebPac flight: SGD 25-40/kg
• Express courier (DHL, FedEx): SGD 80-150 for small package, fast
• EastWest Pop! / Mailpac / Wise Send Items: newer hybrid options for small items

For bulk family pasalubong: balikbayan box wins. For urgent / single items: courier.

When to send for arrival timing

Related reading

• Father's Day SG 2026, 8 practical gift picks
• How to send money to PH with lower fees

Last reviewed 11 May 2026. Rates based on FIS reader trip reports and cargo company SG websites, actual prices vary by season, route, destination, and current promotions. BOC customs rules current per RA 10863 / BOC implementing regulations as of early 2026. Verify before shipping high-value or unusual items.