Ordering from Ebay International to the Philippines

Tuesday, January 01, 2013 Alexis Mendoza 274 Comments

I have to admit, I love shopping online! The convenience it gives to people like me who doesn't have the leisure to go out and spend hours looking for stuff to buy. But this doesn't mean I'm an expert when it comes to online shopping because I usually buy from trusted websites and I shop on local sites.


But I finally took the plunge and ordered something from Ebay International even though I was hesitant because of the high customs tax implemented in the country. I opt to order something not expensive so that if it do not make it to my doorsteps, I wouldn't mind the amount wasted.



It was November 26, 2012 when I ordered a Nikon P7100 Leather Camera Case (photo above) from a seller based in Hong Kong, I was actually looking for this case here in the local market but no luck. It is priced at 8.30USD plus 6.00USD shipping fee making a grand total of 14.30USD, it was around 600php when converted to peso, so not bad. After checking feedbacks from other customers, I made a conclusion that She is a legitimate seller.

So I paid via Paypal and went along my normal routine at work, the following day an email came from the seller confirming my order as well as a link to the tracking number located in my Ebay account, I really thought it would take longer. I then tracked my package via Hong Kong post's website, luckily it's in English and up to date.


As I remember, it took around 3 days after the posting of the package for it to move to another office in Hong Kong, a couple of days after, it was ready for departure to destination country already! Yay!

The new week came, Monday. I tracked my package and got notified that it already arrived in the destination country, now this is the tricky part as I track the package now via PhilPost's website which is now sporting a nice look by the way.


I was actually expecting a very very slow process from PhilPost's side as what I've read from other blogs and reviews, but surprisingly, with their new website comes a more updated tracking update. I  was actually able to track my package as it moves, complete with time stamp.

My package was passed to several offices, until it stopped in the customs office, this is the part where you'll know if it'll be stuck there and you need to march on down to Pasay office and face customs for... wait for it... TAX + Other Payments! Eek! I dread going to that place. Luckily, it passed customs after a couple of days and when on to another office, and finally made the last stop -- En route to Delivery office, which I presume that time is my local post office, it was dated December 10th.

After another week, I finally got the claim card from our friendly postman and I went to the local post office. Since I know the process already, I prepared 40php postal fee and my postal ID. Claiming from Quezon City Post Office was and always a breeze, I just sign in their logbook, pay 40php and wait for my package. Heck, customs officer didn't opened the package in front of me and just handed it over to me.

Finally after less than a month, I finally got my package all safe and perfect! Ordered November 27, 2012 and arrived December 17th, not bad if you think about it. The seller actually marked the package as a gift, maybe She knows the process here in the country (?).


The package is in good shape, the seller even sent a nice free cleaner cloth. It perfectly fits my camera and is exactly what the ad posted, I'm really satisfied and planning to buy other stuff for my camera soon. :)

Hope this helps those who are a little hesitant to order from international sellers. If you have negative or positive experiences with ordering from Ebay International, feel free to comment below so that other readers can get an idea when buying first time from Ebay International. :)

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274 comments:

  1. I only have driver's licence. Do I really need a Postal ID?

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  2. hello which tracking number did you put in philpost?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Jeremy, you input the original tracking number you used in tracking in from the origin country. :)

      Delete
  3. hello,
    how many days exactly the postman come and got your notice?
    thanks!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Micah!

      Once your package is marked En route to Delivery office, you might receive the notice after a week or two depending on how fast the post office processes their package in your city. :)

      Delete
  4. Hi! I'm trying to order some magazines through eBay. The seller is from Japan. Do we always have to pick up packages at Customs Office or do they sometimes get delivered straight to the receiver's doorsteps? Thanks! :)

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    Replies
    1. Hi Pricnessayra!

      It really depends on the customs. Our customs are really sketchy, if you're lucky it'll be delivered to your door or will be sent to your local city post office for pick-up. If not, you need to pick it up on the customs main office in Pasay. Just a few tips, ask your seller to mark your package as 'Gift' and lower the price indicated on the package, that usually works for me. :)

      Delete
  5. Hi,

    I plan to buy on ebay sellers from HK and SG. Do i always have to pick it up at the post office? (assuming it passed customs) I'm from QC too. Or it can be delivered at my doorstep? Also, do the sellers use PHL Post by default? (If they don't specify the courier like FedEx, DHL etc.) And do they operate on weekends? THANKS! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kemp!

      Yes, here in Quezon City you really have to pick it up at the post office. Postal rules differ from City to City and I really don't know why. I have a friend in Makati, she said all her packages arrive to her house.

      As for the sellers, if it's standard shipping it'll be sent through Philpost, even those with tracking numbers -- unless you choose an option like FedEx or other courier services, those will be delivered to your doorstep.

      Lastly, PhilPost operates only from Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm.

      Hope I covered all your questions. :)
      -Alex

      Delete
  6. Hi! I'm just wondering a postman went here yesterday and told me that I have a parcel to claim he asked me to sign the notification card and I signed it. I gave him 100 pesos because he told me that there is a fee for this notification card. He also asked me if i want to claim my parcel myself or if i want it to be delivered by him on saturday which is today. And I chose the second option. Now, i'm wondering, is this a legit transaction? I'm not worried about the hundred pesos that i gave him but i'm worried about my order from US because when i track the package it says that it has no record.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Vanna,

      That's weird, the notification card is ALWAYS free based on my experience and you don't have to pay the postman anything because they aren't authorized to receive such payments. Also, this is the first time I heard the postman offering this service because as far as I know you need to personally be at the post office to claim your parcel.

      Best thing you could do is visit your post office, bring the notification card you got from the postman and ask about it directly there. Also, there's no post service on weekends.

      Hope this is just some misunderstanding and not a scam that some of these postmans do. :)

      Delete
  7. my package arrived nov 8, 2014 from china via HKPost and i cant track it via phlpost website. i need help

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    Replies
    1. Hi Leonardo,

      There are times when you cannot track a package. I don't know what's wrong with PHLpost but it happens. The best thing you could do is just wait for your notification card to arrive.

      Hope you'll get your package soon. ;)

      Delete
  8. Hi I Just want to ask how much taxes you pay in phil post or how they compute the taxes ? I also plan to buy in ebay.Do they charge you high?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Mariah!

      It actually depends on the item you bought. I'm not pretty sure how PHLpost computes this but based on experience -- if your package needs to be picked-up (or ended up) at the PHLpost EMS Center at Pasay, expect to pay a lot. The redtape there is horrendous. If you're notified to pick it up in your city's local post office, you'll normally just pay 50-60php for the handling & tax.

      Hope this helps. :)
      -Alexbam

      Delete
  9. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Dashsnow2292!

      Looks like your item is shipped standard (unless you paid for express shipping). It will definitely end up in PHL Post when it arrives in the country, as for your question on where will you pick it up. It really depends on how the customs see you package -- if it is declared to cost $20 or up, it MIGHT end up at the Pasay EMS Main Office where you need to pick it up. If it indeed passes the eyes of the crocs at the PHL Post EMS Main Office, you'll need to pick it up in your local post office -- prepare around P100 for this. :)

      By the way, for standard free shipping -- the seller doesn't have tracking number that why the seller didn't mentioned anything else aside from the item being shipped via HK. I know it's a little frustrating but this is the part where it tests your patience. I experienced the same anxiety on my first purchase. :)

      Hope this helps and you get your package soon!
      -AlexBam

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    2. Thanks for this! My package is considerably small for its size and I'm just scared that it'll get lost while it's being shipped here. I don't really know how how they package them since it's also my first time buying online. Anyway, thanks again! :)

      Delete
    3. Shipping from HK to PHL takes around 15-31 days, so you'll most likely get it really soon. Thanks for stopping by my blog, hope it helped you. :)

      Delete
  10. Hi again Alexis!

    I was just wondering, have you had any experience of your shipments being delivered right at your doorstep by a Philpost postman? If so, did they charge you any ridiculous fees? Two of my packages arrived today from HK and the postman charged me 200 for the both of them. As for asking the postman why such a ridiculous fee, I never got the chance because I was too overly excited for receiving my first orders from Ebay. Hehe. Again, Thank you!

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    Replies
    1. Hi again Dashsnow!

      First off, Happy New Year! :)

      For your question, I actually experience a couple of package from Korea that arrived to my doorstep. It was delivered by the guys at PHLpost main (the one using a white van-type vehicle). I just paid like 100 pesos for tax and I instantly got my package, also they issue receipts for this.

      As for the charges made by your postman, did he issued a receipt? Because normally, if it's a city postman (the one that just walks) they don't have the authority to delivery parcels. They just normally deliver notice cards for you to bring to your city post office and claim the package. Normal charge for that is 50php per package -- for tax and handling.

      Hope this helps! :)

      Delete
  11. Happy New Year too! :)

    That 100php you paid for, is it the charge per parcel? If that's the case, then the postman did charge me the right amount though with no recepit. However, I can't still accept the fact that I was charged 100 php per parcel even though the size of each parcel were no bigger than half the size of a short brown envelope. They were just a little bit larger than ordinary white envelop mails (snail mails) and they weren't even bulky nor heavy.

    Maybe the size of my parcels is also the reason why they got delivered to my house? I'm just guessing here. But 200 php for two letter-sized packages? Oh come on!

    As for if it was a city postman or those from the main office that delivered my parcels, I'm not sure. I think he was a city postman because I never saw a white van outside then. I'll check next time.

    I'll probably ask next time for a receipt if ever my next incoming parcels got delivered to my house. I do feel something's fishy with that last postman that delivered my parcels. I'll update you again on this.

    Thanks again Alexis!

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    Replies
    1. Hi!

      Yup, must be the case. The last parcel I got from Korea is a box a little smaller than a shoebox but it reached my house and I just paid around 100 for it.

      You are right, smaller packages tends to end up in the local post office or directly at home compared to bigger ones that tends to get stuck at their Pasay office.

      Yup! Definitely ask for a receipt for your payments so that you are sure you are billed right. ;)

      Cheers!

      Delete
  12. Hi Alexis! If I opted for FedEx, do I still need to pay the customs? Thank you very much!

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    Replies
    1. It still depends on the value of your package. But normally, you don't need to pay anything else. FedEx will most likely deliver it straight to your home. :)

      Delete
  13. Hi im not sure if i had entered my comment already. Can i claim from the post office if i didn't get a notification card? I purchased two items from ebay both delivered with tracking info. One arrived jan 12 the other jan 16. But havent received a notification card yet.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Nei!

      After arriving at the Main postal office in Pasay, it takes a couple of weeks for it to be delivered to your local post office, then it usually takes 1-2 weeks more before your local post office deliver your notification card.

      I suggest you wait for it so that you won't have a hard time searching for your package when you visit your post office. :)

      - Alex

      Delete
  14. Hi Alex! Would you happen to know whether the "taxes" also vary depending on where the item came from? And also, how would I know if the shipping company I chose would deliver it straight to my doorstep or would just drop the item off at the Pasay postal office? Thank you! :

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    1. Hi Arvin!

      Would you happen to know whether the "taxes" also vary depending on where the item came from?

      - That is actually a factor as well, but taxes mainly base on the declared value of the package. The higher the price (like $20 and above) the greater the chance it'll get taxed high.

      how would I know if the shipping company I chose would deliver it straight to my doorstep or would just drop the item off at the Pasay postal office?

      - This depends on the arrangement you made with the person where your package is coming from. For example, ebay items usually include free standard shipping which means it'll go from originating post office to our Pasay main office - from there, it'll depend on the inspectors if your package needs to be picked up there or to your nearest post office. In some case, the seller uses door to door services (usually these has higher shipping rates) like DHL, TOLL, etc., these packages ends up at your doorstep. :)

      Hope this helps,
      Alex

      Delete
  15. Boss! ask ko lng kung possible ba na lampas 1 month bago dumating yung item mo? nung feb 17 2015 naka enroute to delivery office na sa philpost kailan ba exact month dadating yung item ko? taga General Santos po ako! salamat sa sagot boss! (=

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    Replies
    1. Hi!

      Yup, possible yun lalo na pag standard shipping. Delivery takes roughly around 30-45 days. Pero based sa info na meron ka, it should arrive in General Santos before end of March. Pag sa end of March wala pa rin, drop by ka na sa post office nyo baka di ka lang napadalhan ng notification card. :)

      Alex

      Delete
  16. Hi Kuya! May bibilhin sana akong item sa ebay.ph kaso nagdadalawang-isip ako ng dahil sa tax. Yung bibilhin ko e free postage and $4.99 ang price. Mga magkano po kaya ang babayaran kong tax? Tsaka saan ko po makukuha? I'm from Iligan City by the way. 😊

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    Replies
    1. Hello Mikah!

      Kung worth 4.99usd lang naman, di na yan itatax. :) May babayaran ka lang na postage and customs fee, siguro around 60-100 pesos lang yan. As for pick-up location, sa post office ng Iligan mo na sya makukuha.

      Alex

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  17. Awww okay. Thanks kuya! 😊

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  18. Hi alexis, tanong ko lng the same pa rin ba ang process kung sa korea thru EMS manggaling ung package. kung declared as gift liliit ba ang value? wala na rin customs tax? may data ka ng declared value against customs tax? Thank you.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Aaron!

      Almost same din for packages coming from Korea via EMS. Although I have experienced na it was delivered straight to my door and I just payed 100 lang for handling. Meron namang package before na na-stuck sa Pasay Office, hindi ko na kinuha kasi mababa lang naman value nung gift na yun and for sure they'll tax me big since bag yun.

      As for declaring the package as gift, there's a possibility na liliit ang tax or even tax free, pero very rare mangyari yun. :)

      -Alex

      Delete
  19. do you really need the tracking number before you get your parcel or just a valid ID? coz the seller did not give me the tracking number coz i did not give extra for it.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Al!

      Nope, tracking isn't needed when claiming your parcel. You just need to wait for the postman to deliver your Notification Card before heading to your post office, you need that in order to claim your package.

      Sellers - especially from Ebay send packages via standard post with no tracking number. Delivery times vary, but based on my experience, packages coming from mainland China & Hongkong arrives in the local post office after 30-45 days and longer during holidays.

      Delete
  20. Hi Alex,
    There's this item that i want to buy at ebay that costs at around Php 900,would this be caught on hold at our customs here? the seller is from italy, magkano po mga babayaran ng tax for this?

    I also just recently bought another item na subtotal is
    Subtotal $17.09 tapos Shipping costs $19.74 and Total is $36.83, my question is would the tax for this item be based on the subtotal or or woul it be on both including the shipping?


    Thank you! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi there!

      There's a possibility that the customs in Pasay might hold your package, if not I'm pretty sure your local post office customs officer will charge it. It also depends on how big the package is, the bigger the higher chance it'll get stuck in Pasay. There's a formula that they use for the charge, but I can't seem to find it now on the PHLpost website.

      As for your other item, shipping was quick pricey -- if that is shipped through DHL or FEDex, I'm pretty sure it wouldn't get stuck in customs and will be delivered straight to your door. Btw, customs tax your total item value excluding the shipping fee. :)

      Delete
  21. This is informative, thank you Alexis. I'm planning to buy some toys for my kid from ebay, seller is from China and Japan. I'm going to choose the free postage which is via AirMail and wait rather than EMS. I heard a lot of bad stories from EMS and these DHL and FedEx are too pricey.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Hey Janjan!

      Glad you love this post! :)

      Yeah I agree to that. Sometimes, paying extra for express shipping or shipping via DHL / FedEx is worth it compared to the hassle dealing with our customs.

      Delete
  22. Hi! How many days does it usually take for a parcel(hoodie) from korea to arrive in ph? It's via registered mail and the last update was "Incheon" on April 22. Thank you in advance :)

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    Replies
    1. Hi Sharmaine!

      It really differs from time to time. Sometimes it takes only 15 days while sometimes it can take as long as a month for it to arrive. :)

      Delete
  23. Hi there! I purchased an item in eBay from S. Korea worth $64.29 and I was given a track number. I used track-trace.com and found out that my parcel has arrived at MNL CMEC AIR last April 24, 2015 but up until now, there is no further update. What could have happened? I'm from Cebu by the way. Please help.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Josephus!

      Your package might still be at Customs and is up for inspection. Once it passes through, it'll be taken to Cebu (around 1-2 weeks) and you'll get a notification card from your local post office after a week or so. :)

      When you still haven't received any notification card by end of May, you can drop by your local post office and ask them nicely about your package since you have the tracking number with you. :)

      -Alex

      Delete
  24. Hi alex.

    Im glad i found a very informative blog like this. Please help me... im planning to buy a car electronic item from China that cost $380 plus $65 shipping fee thru DHL. I was just very hessitant on confirming my purchase because of the fear of getting the item on-hold by customs and charging me a high import tax and duty. But based on what ive read on your previous comments, if it is door to door the customs wont have anything to do with it. So this leads me to the conclusion of the item will be delivered right in front of my doorsteps without paying even a single cent to the customs. Am i right?

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello there!

      I guess it it's via DHL, it won't get stuck in customs. But I think DHL will charge you for tax they payed for your item at customs, so make sure to prepare some cash for that. It's better than you directly transacting with customs too. :)

      Delete
  25. Hi! Im planning to purchase from ebay with free international shipping. Its from 4 different sellers. Its just some electronic device that cost around $10 or less for each transaction and they will fit only on a small mail envelope (I guess).
    Question: will philpost charge me one tax for all or individually?
    THanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Chris!

      You will charged per package, whether it came from one place or one shipper. As long as it's in different packages, it is charged per package. Also, normally for small packages, even if it's small, sellers normally place it in package pouches, not small snail mail envelops. :)

      Delete
  26. Hi! I recently purchased a $100 graphics tablet on Amazon and paid an additional $19.99 for expedited shipping via DHL Express. Is there any chance that my package may be held up on BOC?

    Although my seller did inform me that it is a door-to-door delivery, I'm terribly worried on having to deal with their officers and their corrupt system.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Rachel!

      Normally, for expedited shipping like DHL, they will take care of everything and deliver it straight to your door. :)

      Delete
  27. Hi I was planning to buy an iphone from a seller from the US. The smart phone sold to me costs around 200$ the shipping would be via fedex and the seller told me that I wouldn't have to pay for any shipping fee and that the item would be shipped directly to my house. I was just wondering if fedex would charge me anything and If item would pass through customs and be held there.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Karina!

      I haven't tried FedEX's service yet so I really cannot answer this. Although with a $200 shipping fee, I recommend you check out services like LBC Shipping Cart (http://lbcshippingcart.ph/) or Johnny Air Padala (http://johnnyairpadala.com/). I already tried Johnny Air padala but haven't tried LBC Shopping Cart Yet, but they both offer the same service.

      What they do is give you a US Address (So shipping from the seller to your "US Address" will be cheaper) from there, LBC or Johnny Air will send it to the Philippines for a small fee + tax. But i feel it'll be cheaper than paying $200 shipping fee directly to the shipper. Hope this helps. :)

      Delete
  28. Hello. My mate ordered an item in Ebay US and had it delivered it in my address. The problem is, I forgot to include the baranggay in my address. Only the house number, street, town which is Tuguegarao City and the zip code. When I asked her about the tracking number, this is the info she gave me:

    UPAAB000000110952551

    In Transit with Destination Carrier
    PARANAQUE
    2d ago

    In Transit with Destination Carrier
    PARANAQUE
    3d ago

    In Transit with Destination Carrier
    PARANAQUE
    4d ago

    Delivery Attempt-Delivery exception - Incorrect address
    PARANAQUE
    4d ago

    In Transit with Destination Carrier
    PASAY CITY
    5d ago

    It says in there about the incorrect address. I just wanted to know what the courier is so that I will just call them and update them about my address. I have tried using FedEx and LBC as well as the auto-detecting trackers but it either says invalid tracking number or just no information about it yet.

    Do you have any ideas or suggestions on what to do to resolve this? Hope to hear from you soon.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      Can you ask your mate if it's standard shipping? If it is, PHL Post will be handling that package. What you can do is contact PHL Post and try if they can retrieve the package and correct the address, although I'm sure if that's possible.

      You can get in touch with PHL Post in the numbers and emails below:

      For further inquiries for International Mails, please contact the following:
      Express Mail Service : Tel. No.: +63 2 8545257 and +63 2 8549825 e-mail: ems.cs@phlpost.gov.ph
      Parcel and Registered Mail: Tel. No.: +63 2 8541641 , +63 2 8540086 and +63 2 5844670 e-mail: amed.supportservices@phlpost.gov.ph

      Hope you'll have your package with you soon and thanks for visiting my blog. :)

      Delete
    2. What if it's International Priority Shipping? Thank you and this blog for helping us.

      Delete
    3. Hello!

      If the package is International Priority Shipping, it'll arrive faster in the country but will go through the same process as regular packages once it arrives here.

      Delete
    4. I e-mailed them and gave the tracking number but they say that they could not find the package because the tracking number is incorrect. What other couriers do you know in handling this one? Thank you.

      Delete
    5. I'm really not sure about this one, best way to know is ask your seller what courier did they used. :)

      Delete
  29. Hi Alexis, ask ko lng po kung pano ko ma claim yung package ko kasi wala pa po akong government Id, student pa Lang po ako. At kung pwede bang I claim ng parents ko for me?
    Binili ko po yun sa ebay for $7.44.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi there!

      Pwede mo gamitin ang student ID mo, just make sure na current yan for the School Year. If your parents are going to claim it for you, you need to give them your claim card (yung pinadapala sa bahay na card ng PHL Post) and fill up the back with your name and signature. Also have your ID photocopied as well as your parents ID, lastly, provide them an authorization letter.

      Hope this helps! :)

      Delete
  30. hi alex,

    just want to clarify since i'm also planning to buy some items from e-bay since they are a lot more cheaper from our local stores online here in the Philippines,

    all items bought internatonally either of free postage or with some shipping fee charges (let's say we have settled them via paypal or other means of payment), once it get in our country we still have to pay some postal fees from our local post office once we claim our package? am i right?

    thanks for this blog by the way

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think yeah, because you still need to pay the handling fees and other stuff, but its like for 40-100 pesos only

      Delete
    2. Hi there!

      Yes, unless your order is shipped via couriers like (DHL, FedEX, etc.) your package will go through the normal process even if you paid for shipping fee. Normally, sellers charge shipping fee for tax in their country.

      Hope this helps. :)

      Delete
  31. hello, do you know if items including shipping valued under $20 are tax-free?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Diana!

      I heard that customs set a new limit to $10, beyond that amount will definitely be taxed. But it still depends on the item you are receiving, it's really tricky when it comes to transacting with customs and PHL Post, sometimes they charge, sometimes they don't.

      Delete
  32. Hi.. i was planning on buying charms from ebay. Shop is located in china. But i was hesitating because of the custom charges that may incurr for my parcel. Package worth is about $50 with free shipping. Do you know how much charges i may have to pay the customs for the package? Thanks anyway for ur blog. 😉Really does help alot.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hannah!

      It really depends on how the customs officer assess your package. Normally, for jewelries (even those not real gold / silver), they charge it depending on the price indicated in the package declaration. They have this complicated computation table that I still don't know how they do it. :)

      Delete
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  35. HI. Thanks for your reply. :) so when the shipper declares it on a lower amount(much lower than the actual amount), does it mean i would have to pay less?? :D the supplier says he will declare a lower value so as not to maKe me pay taxes..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hannah!

      That can be the case, but as always, it still depends on the Customs Officer checking and opening the parcel in front of you. If they think the package amount is misdeclared, they'll still put on tax on your parcel. :)

      Hope this helps!

      Delete
  36. Sorry for bringing this post back from the dead but would like to share my story.. I ordered a bunch Edo samurai period Authentic samurai parts from japan through eBay.. After a month of waiting I decided to check the tracking service and low and behold it's says it's already arrived in the Philippes 2 weeks ago. So yesterday I went there with my wife and two year old on two. I jotted down all the tracking numbers from different transactions from Japan, Hk, China and Korea. I handed them to the guy in the counter who pleasantly went through his books to check for my tracking numbers.. I got 2 hits in his notebook system.. Lol I was standing there thinking won't it be easier if he had a computer and typed search for my tracking numbers but yeah the office was pretty manual no computers.. He signed 2 slips and asked me for 200 for the two packages! I was like yeah awesome I'm getting my package! I could see this fat guy with a badge sitting behind the desk dosing off to sleep. I was happy wasn't awake coz I know he's the customs dude.. Upon signing the recept I was asked for my ID and I gave a government issue International student ID I have when I used to study in Sibgapore. The only decent ID I have in my wallet., he asked for my Drivers license. My license had been confiscated by the MMDA so I gave showed him my ticket which had my signature he laughed and asked for an ID that had a signature.. I dug out an old Shangrila place amenities gym membership card which had signature on the back.. (Big mistake) The guy in the counter flipped the card around from the signature side and read out Wow Shangrila card. That was when the guy customs guy snoozing behind his desk woke up and seemed more interested in my package.. He asked for the packed to be handed to him and I go inside the office.. He asked me got my Paypal transaction receipt.. I told him I only have the transaction on my eBay account which I had on my phone.. He looked at it and punched in some computations on his gigantic calculator.. He charged me 15 percent of my paypal transactions.. I've got 6-7 packages remaining and Im afraid to pick up the rest because I've already been marked in that post office.. I can only imagine how much more these guys are going to tax me.. It doesn't even look like a real receipt the darn tax thing is just a piece of paper that was xeroxed copy.. No batch numbers or seal or stamp or anything.. To be honest I felt robbed.. It feels good to shop on eBay but when the customs guys hanging around the post office tax your pants off it doesn't feel like a bargain anymore.. Is it legal what they did? What can I do to avoid this? I'm kinda turned off with shopping on EBay and having it sent through the Philippine postal office,. There should be some laws protecting online shoppers.. As much as I hate to compare the US. I bought a sword when I was staying at my sister in laws house in Seattle.. On the 6th day I heard 3 knocks on the door. I opened the door and no one was there I look down and there was a triangular box sitting there.. Believe me it felt like Christmas. I even had a problem with that same sword and I returned it to seller.. She gladly sent me a postal Print out which I took to the post office the next day.. I cut that print out and stuck I to the box and the postal office sent it back to here free if charge.. When oh she could we have laws protecting Inline shoppers? I hope there would be laws that would fix this..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Chris!

      Thanks for sharing your experience. Actually, this is the problem with the postal service here in the Philippines, lots of red tapes, corruption, and shady computation going around before getting our parcels. I also have a few packages stuck in PHL Post Pasay Main office that I just brushed off and didn't claimed because I already know that they will charge me so much for such a small package (after all, it's just a few gift items from Korea). I really know how you feel and I hope that the future administration of the country works on a way to make the postal service more efficient for the people.

      About your comparison of the PH Postal service to the US Postal service, I 100% agree with you that the one in the US is really efficient and they even delivery (or leave it) on your door without any charges. I really wish that one day it'll be the same here, but we've got a long way to go. I recommend sticking with website that do expedited shipping to the Philippines, it might be a little costly but you're sure that you'll get the package quicker and without the hassle of the crocs in the customs. If you're getting items from the US to the PH, I recommend you check out Johnny Air Padala and LBC Shipping cart services. :)

      Delete
  37. Hello! I plan to order secondhand books from ebay. Do you think customs might charge me with additional fees? Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No doubt about it..! I ordered rusty ancient lumps of metal from japan and I got charged an arm and a leg.. Go figure

      Delete
    2. Hello Nicole!

      By Philippine law, Books are not subject for charge especially if not sent in bulk. But I have friends who bought books online and got charged by customs, so it's really tricky there at customs and PHL Post.

      Delete
  38. how much will you pay for tax?

    ReplyDelete
  39. and can i claim my package without a courier delivering my package(via tracking number)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hugh!

      Tax will depend on how the customs compute your package. As for your second question, I assume you want to claim the package and not have it delivered to your house? That is possible, just wait for the pick-up notification card that will be delivered to your place before you pick up your package in the assigned postal office indicated in the notification card. :)

      Delete
  40. Hi Alexis,

    I just bought NBA cards from ebay and I'm wondering if the customs will still issue additional charges? They cost less than 1k in total. Or it is advisable to inform the seller to put the items as a gift to avoid these charges? Is it 100% sure they won't charge you additional?

    Thanks man.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Darryl!

      Thanks for stopping by my blog!

      Yup, that should help if your seller marks it as a gift. Also, I think the NBA cards are small and won't be taxed at all -- if it will, it will be just be cheap. ;)

      Cheers!

      Delete
  41. Hi I know its been a year that this have been posted. I was wondering kasi, I won an item from a giveaway contest and it was sent to me as a gift. I received a mail saying I have to pick it up in the main post office. So i did, but then I was shocked that I had to pay the taxes. I know I shouldve expected but whats more intriguing is that they charged me 206php but the receipt said 100php. Altho they computed something on their other receipt but my receipt only says 100php. Is it really like that there?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You bet.. Your lucky it's only 200 bucks mine says it cost 20 dollers but those gators made me pay 1700.. Count your blessings mate!

      Delete
    2. Yeah, definitely red tape is an issue with customs and PHL Post. They really can't make a solution about it and that what makes people not trust their office. Sad to hear your experience Laila. :(

      Delete
  42. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Hi thanks for writing this blog! I'm awaiting for a package from my employer in the US, he used USPS and when I tracked it the status says" Delivered at 1:00pm" but doesn't say if it's delivered to the address or the post office but until now we haven't received any package or even any notice from the post office. I even called USPS in the US but their CS couldn't help me too and advised me to contact the local post office here ( w/c is I've been trying to call -- couldn't get hold of them,like the line is always busy, and I also emailed them but no one is replying until now) Where is the Quezon City Postal Office located? How is different from the one located in Pasay? Anyone please advise. This is the second time that the sender tried to send me a package and the first one still says "In Transit" but since it was not sent as Priority Express Mail so it's not "trackable" where will I get it? :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Maze,

      When you track via USPS it just tracks until it is shipped / air shipped to the destination country, so most likely the status 'Delivered 1:00PM' might be the time it was taken from USPS and shipped to the Philippines. Once it arrives in the Philippines, it'll take around 2 weeks before you receive a notification card either from the local post or from the main customs office in Pasay.

      As for your second package, stand shipping doesn't have a tracking number. So yeah, you just wait for your notification card to arrive since it's un-trackable. :)

      Delete
  44. My comment vanished.
    I bought something from eBay shipped from California through their GSP, my postage details lacked my house number. will the item be sent to my local post office in paranaque ? or will it stay in pasay ? i fear that it might be returned to the seller.

    ReplyDelete
  45. also. there is no way to track the item through eBay's GSP. i learned that this will be through eBay's partner "PineyBowes"
    there is no way to contact this courier. I'm quite frustrated.

    -thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Edmond,

      For your first question, I think it'll be either returned to sender or will be stuck in Pasay. If it indeed goes to your local post, you can visit them and ask if there's a package under your name, you'll have to provided proof that it's yours and the name in the package is you. :)

      Delete
  46. thanks for the reply. if i go to pasay and give them the details of my package, will it do any good?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Edmond,

      I don't recommend that. It is best to wait for your notice card before heading to Pasay as they need the notice card. :)

      Delete
  47. Thanks Alex! Good thing I bumped into your blog! Thanks for sharing and helping! :)

    ReplyDelete
  48. Good Day po, Tanung ko lang po, bibili ako ng watch sa ebay from hong kong yung supplier. around 180 usd po yung price free postage na, may mababayaran po ako pag dating sa davao? mga around mag kano po kaya?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Mark!

      That's quite an expensive item and I think you will be taxed high for that since it's almost 200usd plus it's considered as jewelry. I suggest you use US address services such as LBC Shipping Cart or Johnny Air Padala, it will cost you an additional shipping fee but you're sure your package will arrive to you safe. ;)

      Hope this helps! :)
      Alex

      Delete
  49. Hi alex. Im planning to buy sa ebay. And free shipping daw via USPS. i put my home address. dto ba idedeliver yun or kukunin ko din sa post office? Anyway what i am about to buy is perfume. Ask ko lang din if may idea ka magkano charge non. Thanks so much. 700php lang cost nung product. Thanks so much

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Mary,

      USPS or United States Postal Service is the US equivalent of PHL Post, they really have a nice track record when it comes to parcels but once it's out of the US, it will be received by PHL Post where it'll follow the same procedure every package goes through. So to answer your question, you might need to pick it up in your local post office or at Pasay main office. Also, you might want to check restrictions for liquid products on parcels.

      As for the charge, it really depends on how the customs officer assess your parcel, so I cannot answer this. :)

      Hope this helps!
      Alex

      Delete
  50. Hello. I don't have any postal Id I'm just a student but with my school's Id. Can I claim my package?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Vincent!

      Yes, you can use your school ID as long as it is for the current school year. :)

      Delete
  51. Hi Alexis Mendoza,

    Thank you for your blog, It really helps sa mga takot mag order online dahil sa customs natin.

    planned ko bumili ng mga items sa ebay, galing china/hongkong, free shipping, nanghihinayang ako sa tagal ng dating, 45days ang hihintayin ko, kaya gusto ko isagad yung bibilhin ko. Mga electronic items/ parts, pang DIY, worth 1 to 5 USD each. How much ba yung maximum per package na acceptable kay customs? para NO tax? and planned ko rin bumili ng mga AUDIO CD's, may rules ba sila?

    thank you for your prompt reply

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Tetley!

      Salamat, glad you love this blog post!

      As for your question. Napaka unpredictable talaga ng customs, there are times na kahit beyond $20 nakakalusot and hindi nila tinatax, while there are times that they do tax kahit below $20. As for audio CD's, I think taxable yung mga yan pero di naman ganun kataas. :)

      Hope this helps!

      Delete
  52. Hi sir alex, first time ko po mag order sa ebay, plan ko po bumili ng bluetooth helmet $189.00 ang price free shipping.. Sbi ng friend ko mataas daw po ang charge ng DHL or FEDEX plus tax daw po.. Pwde mo po mabigyan ng initial estimate ng magagastos ko, salamat po sir alex..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Narding,

      Yes that is true, DHL and FEDEX charges a lot but your package is safer with them and they deliver fast. As for the tax, it really depends, sometimes tax is already included in the amount you paid for shipping while for valuable items such as electronics, it will still be taxed and DHL / FEDEX will charge it to you once they deliver it to you place.

      Hope this helps! :)

      Delete
  53. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  54. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hello KH,

    It might end up in Pasay or at your local post office. It depends on how they customs assess your package but please note that books are exempted from tax based on the Florence Agreement – initiated by the UNESCO. Countries who signed the agreement like the Philippines would not apply customs duties or other charges on “educational, scientific and cultural materials” such as books and newspapers. :)

    Hope this helps!

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hi sir! It was my first time to order internationally (amazon). My tracking number says that it's already here in Manila, Philippines but i have not yet received the claim card. When I do, would you know which post office to go to? My shipping address is in Manila. I googled the nearest post office and it's in UST or the one in SM San Lazaro. Do I go there or do I have to claim my package in the Manila Central Post Office? Thanks a bunch!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Czarine!

      When you receive your claim card, it'll be indicated in the card where you need to get it. For local post office, your local postman will deliver the card while the guys from Pasay Main Office will deliver the card if you need to pick it up there. :)

      Delete
  57. Hi good day. Ask ko lang if pwede ba kumuha ng parcel sa CMEC kahit walang notif card? I tracked mine sa 17track it says my item has been received at Central Mail Exchange Ctr August 20. Till now wala pa. Di ko ma track sa Phlpost not working kasi tracking page

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Veronica,

      You can do that, but it's much advisable if you have your notif card with you since it'll lessen the time for them to search your parcel. :)

      Delete
  58. Hi good day! We shop online several times and here it comes that the Phil Post is the one who deliver us the package and they hand it to us the package and the postman asked a money as a payment from custom. We didn't give the money because we argue that we paid already it on ebay and we have a copy on it. They hand already the package on to us and we didn't give it back to them. My question is....what is the ground for that? Help please if you have some idea out there......

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Ghost Monkey!

      If the guys delivering are the ones from PHL Post Main, they will charge you a certain amount for tax and/or delivery fee. That is standard if they are the ones who deliver it straight to your place. It actually depends on the package, it can go as low as 100. Just make sure to always ask for a receipt because they actually need to give you one when you pay.

      Hope this helps!

      Delete
  59. 100 pesos each box but we didn't pay because we already paid the shipping cost and they said that it's a charges from the custom and last 5 days we actually received item from ebay without any other charges.We're upset that's why we didn't pay. Yeah it's not too big amount but when we hear the words custom we think about corruption. So we didn't pay. Is the Phil Post can sue us?....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry, I didn't notice you sent a follow up comment.

      100 pesos per box is standard payment for handling. :)

      Delete
  60. hi alexis!..im planning to buy at ebay phil worth $8.99 but too scared to shop because im going to used my credit card. does it have any alternative for payment beside of paying in visa, mastercard or paypal? hirap na kasi alam mo un your going to input your card number and security code..baka ma scam ako.btw, ung item ko manggaling sa hongkong..sa imus postal ko ba kukunin ung parcel after mareceive ko ung notification card from the mailman?free postage sya..thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Rhedd!

      You can use Paypal, it's the most secured payment gateway for online shopping. You'll have the option to file a dispute with the seller and get your money back in case something happens along the way of your transaction. :)

      Normally for provinces like Imus, it'll end up in your city post office. Standard postal fee is 100php.

      Hope this helps!
      Alex

      Delete
  61. thank you so much <3
    really helpful :-)

    ReplyDelete
  62. Hi, ask ko lng kung 1 registry notice ba is equal to 1 package? may inorder kc ako na 18 pieces items, 12 palng un dumating hinati sya sa 6 per package. hiwalay b tlga ng registry notice ung 2 package maski same item? thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      Yes, 1 parcel = 1 Notice Card. So if you're expecting 2 parcels, expect 2 notification cards. :)

      Delete
  63. Ano ba ang rason bakit yung mga international purchases hindi door-to-door ang delivery from the Post Office?

    Sa mga times na bumili ako ng items online for international shipping, may mga times roon na door-to-door ang delivery at walang bayad. Yung ibang times, personal pang kukunin sa Post Office yung item at may bayad na dating 50 pesos at ngayon ay 100 pesos.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Heelo Jermaine,

      Actually ako din nagtatako ano yung basis nila. Kasi same as you, I also received a few packages na direcho sa bahay while most end up at my local post office for me to pick up and some minalas at na stuck sa customs Pasay.

      As for the PHLPost fee, from 50 ngayon 100 na talaga since September 2014 (yata). Dumaan pa muna yan sa 60php before naging 100. hehe

      Delete
  64. Hello,

    I would like to share my experience and as well as asking some questions. Im an expat who happened to live in Makati. Several times i order from ebay and usually my items are below USD 10.00, and when i go pick up i will get charge 100 pesos to claim it. But then one day i try to order around USD 20.00, and when the items arrive aside from getting charge the usual fee 100 peso, I also got charged around 250 peso for the tax. How is that possible? I think this is unreasonable, and at that time I argue, is it because I'm a foreigner so they can just charge me any amount. I dont know is it because thats the rule or what. Can u help me where can i find the tax calculation for items bouhgt from other country especially China to Philippines?

    Thanks for your help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello there!

      First off thanks for visiting my blog, I really appreciate it.

      As for your question, PHLpost normally impose tax on items higher than $15usd whatever the item is. It's their discretion though on how much it will be taxed, it'll range from 200-1000php + the 100php standard PHLpost fee.

      I don't think they taxed your package because you're an expat, it's just the way they tax people even normal Filipinos gets taxed like that for packages $15usd and above. ;)

      As for the tax calculation, the tax computation calculator was once placed in the PHLpost website but is now removed for some reason. Sorry about that. :(

      Hope I answered your questions clearly~
      Alex :)

      Delete
  65. Uhm hate to burst your bubble hun but "labeled as a gift" is a bad thing when ordering from sellers, this means the package aint insured and if damaged, you'll have a bad time getting that refund.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      Yes, I know about that. That's the down side of asking the seller to mark your order as gift to dodge getting taxed by our customs.

      Delete
  66. Hello!! Nagorder ako over paypal nung July 16, and ang estimated delivery nya eh July 29 - Aug 25. Up to now, di ko pa rin sya narereceive. And shipping service nya eh USPS. Ano po kayang gagawin ko? Please help. :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can check your local post office if there's a package under your name, also provide them your tracking number. If there's no result, it's best to contact the merchant where you bought your item and let them know you didn't receive your package. :)

      Delete
  67. hi I just want to ask, what if I do not have a credit card or a paypal account? I just need to buy something on ebay, that shoes is really hard to find online, what are the other ways for payment so I can order the product? Pls reply.thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Verna,

      Unfortunately, Paypal is the primary payment method in Ebay. It's not only safe but can refund you faster in case something goes wrong with your order. I recommend getting a Unionbank EON Card for 350php and connect it with your newly created Paypal account. That's the cheapest and most convenient way to have a proper paypal account.

      By the way, some merchants (mostly in China) accepts Western Union payment but that's too risky. :)

      Delete
  68. Ask ko lang balak ko bumili sa ebay free naman ung postage nya kaso cellphone bibilhin ko kapag ba dineclare ko sa value nya na $15 wala na ako babayaran dun? Incase naman magkano kaya ung compute nya kapag nalagyan ng tax? $95 original value nya at galing sa china. Thanks sa magiging advise 1st time ko kasi magorder sa ebay

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Frances!

      Kahit ideclare mo sya na $15, customs will still check the item and assess it. Most likely, they will not believe that it's only $15 because that's too cheap. I don't recommend doing that as it'll be hassle on your end once it arrives here. :)

      Alex

      Delete
  69. DATE and TIME STATUS OF YOUR ITEM COUNTRY
    Nov 4 2015 4:04PM Unsuccessful delivery PHILIPPINES
    Nov 4 2015 9:00AM Receive item at delivery office PHILIPPINES
    Nov 2 2015 11:24AM Enroute to delivery office PHILIPPINES
    Oct 29 2015 12:49PM Turn-over item to next office PHILIPPINES
    Oct 29 2015 7:30AM Receive at country of destination PHILIPPINES
    Oct 24 2015 8:02AM Dispatch to country of destination China
    Oct 20 2015 5:31PM Posting of item China

    pumunta po me sa post office pero wla nmn ung package ko. updated po ba yung tracking?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      Looks like PHL Post Main will be delivering your package since delivery is also tracked or the reason might be that is an expedited shipping which means the seller used a private courier service like DHL / FedEX. Have you tried contacting the seller?

      Hope you receive your parcel soon! :)

      Delete
  70. Good pm po sir!

    Your Blog is very helpful for all of us who wants to buy online. I have heard a lot of sad stories regarding the customs office here in the philippines. As for me , I am still waiting for the items I bought from ebay. They range from 5 to 21 US$. I will post here my experiences in dealing with customs. I have all the invoice receipts with me.

    Again thanks for your efforts and your very informative blog.

    Best regards,

    Ace

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Alexis (Hey, we have the same name!)

      Thank you and I'm glad you found this blog helpful.

      Unfortunately, yes there are a lot of horror stories dealing with customs. For your package, most likely it'll end up in your local post office because of the low value, but still expect it to be assessed by local customs.

      Cheers!
      Alex

      Delete
    2. Thank you Alex!

      Yup we have the same name. Lets see how this boils down. I won in online bids some used smoking pipes and some pipe parts. I have about 5 parcels total. I will ust have to keep my fingers crossed. My items are in MNL CMEC Air as the tracking number says. Hehehehe

      Delete
    3. Just got my parcel today. My items (Broken Smoking Pipes) were just worth about 9 British Pounds or arounf 450 pesos. I paid a total of 492 PHP in customs and postal charges. Only in the Philippines!!! So guys be careful when the customs people assess your items!

      Delete
  71. As of now, my tracking number reflects this report:

    07.11.2015 07:34 Left international place of exchange Philippines
    Mnl Cmec

    We shall see then what happens.....

    ReplyDelete
  72. Hi Alex!
    Thank you for your very helpful blogs about ebay philippines.

    I ordered 2 Aluminum case for my phone, Nov. 5 -26 is the ETA of the items.Question is China post yung nakalagay sakin, saan ko kaya pwede matrack yung order ko?

    Thank you so much.
    Glove

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Glove!

      You can try inputting your tracking number here: http://track-chinapost.com/startairmail.php
      or you can also try visiting the PHL Post website and entering your tracking number there. :)

      Alex

      Delete
  73. Hello,

    I find this blog so helpful. Cleared some of my worries. I've purchased item ebay and the seller use usps priority mail, I think 5 days lng andito na sa pinas yung item ko.. Until today 6 days to be exact status ng parcel ko is " custom clearance process complete" does this mean hnd na ako liable for tax fees? What would happen next after nito, iba iba kasi status when I tracked my parcel sa philpost nakalagay " enroute to delivery office" tapos sa usps naman " custom clearance process complete".. Since I have my tracking number can I possibly go directly sa local post office namen without my notif card? Wala pa rin kasi dumarating na mailman. :)

    God Bless you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Bernard!

      Thanks for finding this post helpful! :)

      When the tracking specified 'Enroute to Delivery Office' in your PHLPost Tracking it means your parcel is on its way to you city's post office. You will need to wait for a notification card from your local post office before heading there. Please note that even though it's cleared on customs main, a customs officer will still check your parcel in your local post office when you claim it and might still be subject for tax.

      Delete
  74. Hi! Could you please help me?
    This was the result when I last tracked it
    2015-11-16 16:31
    PHILIPPINES, Enroute to delivery office
    2015-11-13 12:05
    PHILIPPINES, Turn-over item to next office
    2015-11-13 08:37
    PHILIPPINES, Receive at country of destination.
    Ab
    Do you have any idea what is currently happening to my package?
    And could you tell when I can get my package? I ordered it last November 3. Thank You in advance!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Mark!

      Enroute to Deliver Office means it's on it's way to your local post office in your city. Expect to receive a notification claiming card by next or the week after since government offices are closed this week due to APEC Summit. :)

      Delete
    2. Hi again!
      This was the result when I tracked it yesterday.
      2015-11-17 12:22
      PHILIPPINES, Receive item at delivery office
      2015-11-16 16:31
      PHILIPPINES, Enroute to delivery office
      2015-11-13 12:05
      PHILIPPINES, Turn-over item to next office
      2015-11-13 08:37
      PHILIPPINES, Receive at country of destination
      Does that mean I can already pick up my package?
      Or shall I wait for a notification card before I can?

      Delete
    3. And btw I live in Batangas City near the local post office.

      Delete
    4. It means it's already in your local post office. Just wait for the notification card around next week before you visit your post office. :)

      Delete
  75. Hi Alexis! Any idea regarding UPS delivery? Do they send it door to door and handle customs themselves and just charge me for it? Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      For UPS it'll go through our local customs and you need to pick it up either on their Pasay office or at your local post office. If your package is coming from the US, why don't you try LBC Shipping Cart? They deliver door to door from the US to PH.

      Here's my review about their service: http://www.alexbamin3d.com/2015/11/shipping-from-us-to-philippines-made.html

      Delete
  76. Hello! Can you please help me. I've read all the comments here and I can't seem to find anything like this.

    Nov 27 2015 9:28AM Letter Carrier enroute to delivery PHILIPPINES

    Ano po kaya ibig sabihin niyan?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Shalimar!

      That looks like a new status they use, it might be the same as Enroute to Delivery Office. So it might be on its way to your local post office. :)

      Delete
  77. question lang po, pano po ma track ang shipment ng hongkong post? sa site ng hongkong post nakalagay shipment left to country of destination last nov. 27 pa. so since sa hk lang yun, probably nandto na yun sa pinas. now, saan ko naman mattrack yung shipment ko? thanks! more power

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      Once your HK Post tracking said left to country of destination, you can try tracking it via the PHL Post website. It might take a few days more before it shows up for tracking though. :)

      Delete
  78. Hello. Just wanna ask, what should I do kung yung Item ko naka hold sa custom for about 3 weeks now? How long I need to wait for them to release it and forward it to my post office? It was arrived Nov.5th and since then every time I track it through their site it says 'item for customs examination'. Na stck na ata sa custom. Thank you po. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Jacquelie,

      Looks like you will need to head to the Pasay Main office to get your package. Just wait for the notification card to be delivered to your place before heading there.

      Delete
  79. Geez. But I live outside Manila, I'm from Olongapo. Hindi ba nila ifo-forward yung parcel ko to my local post office? And How long I need to wait po ma-release yung item ko sa Custom? Been waiting for more than 3 weeks now. I'm so clueless, this is my first time to use EMS and prolly never again

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello again Jacqueline!

      Sorry, I thought you're from Metro Manila. Packages going to provinces usually gets delivered in your local post office, from there you will have to pick it up and a customs officer will assess your package. :)

      Delete
  80. hello, i've tracked my package on philpost site, nakalagay na dun "enroute to delivery office" this dec 4. at 9am, gaano pa kaya katagal to? pwede kaya na sila nalang magdeliver dito or need pa to pick up at post office? thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Marvin!

      When the package states 'Enroute to delivery office' it means it's on its way to your local post office. Normally, it'll take around a week or two more before you receive a notification card for you to pick up your package. Unfortunately they don't deliver it door to door because your local post office customs inspector will still inspect your package when you pick it up.

      Delete
  81. medyo matagal pa pala hehe anyways, maraming salamat sa pagsagot. more power and god bless! :)

    ReplyDelete
  82. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Hello,

    I just wanna ask how long would it take to receive the parcel I ordered from ebay? Galing kasi yun ng China and Chinapost ang courier. Last check ko sa PhlPost, Enroute to Delivery Office na nung December 10, would I be able to receive it before the year ends? :) And madedeliver kaya yun door to door, kasi before I ordered the item, sabi daw na idedeliver daw sa address kung ano nakalagay sa paypal (which is yun permanent address ko) pero base sa mga reviews na nababasa ko, mostly sa post office kinukuha. Pano ko po malalaman kung saan ko makukuha?

    Thank you! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Jiselle,

      For packages coming from China, I think around 1 month sya before dumating + a couple more weeks to arrive in your local post office if hindi na stuck sa customs Pasay. Note that there will be delays since the holidays are coming up.

      When it says enroute to delivery office, it's on its way to your local post office. Unfortunately, looks like you will get it by January na since masyadong dikit na sa holidays.

      PHL Post don't deliver door to door. Yes, the seller will indicate your home address but you still have to pick it up in your local post office as the customs inspector will check your parcel first. Expect a notification card to be delivered sa address mo, indicated there will be your pick-up location.

      Hope this helps! :)

      Delete
  84. hello,

    may balak ako bumili ng item ang price niya ay US$128 tanung ko kung pipiliin ko ung Express Shipments with tracking service via EMS/DHL/UPS mga magkano ang babayaran ko estimate lang po..at may chance po ba na ma stuck sa customs?

    THAnk You! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello!

      I cannot give an estimate kasi depende pa rin yan kung anong express service ang gagamitin. If it's EMS there's a chance na mastuck pa rin sa customs. If it's DHL I'm sure it's door to door without any charges, as for UPS, I'm not sure since I haven't tried their service.

      Delete
  85. Hi Master Alex,

    Julius here from Cebu. I'm want to buy a PC Monitor at Ebay and the seller's from South Korea. It would be my first time to order there. The item costs $199. Would you be kind enough to show me the steps if it we're you with all your techniques and tricks on how would the transaction go safely and cost efficient? What's the average cost for the shipping and taxes and stuffs when I want it to be delivered at my door step? Thanks a lot to you and your helpful and informative blog!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Julius!

      I recommend using a forwarding service that will ship your item from South Korea to the Philippines because if you're going to use traditional shipping methods such as EMS, you might have a hard time with customs.

      Are you sure there isn't a local seller that sells that kind of Monitor? I think that's a more safe way to buy items as big and expensive as that one. :)

      Cheers!

      Delete
  86. Hi Alexis!

    How does a forwarding service work? I recently bought an item worth P564 from Hongkong. Moving forward, I might buy the same item as gift to friends (around 10 items). Should I let the seller use the forwarding service? Or is this something I should do?

    Thank you!

    Lennard

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Lennard!

      So far, I don't know any forwarding service from HK to PH. But if you're buying from the US to PH, I recommend LBC Shipping Cart. You can check out my review about them. :)

      Delete
  87. Hello,

    I've read a the discussion above. Thanks for all the help and knowledge you're giving. I want to buy a guitar from US that worth aroung 500-600 dollar but I'm kinda scared since I haven't experienced buying something from outside the PH. I heard a lot about our customs.. I also read that DHL will surely deliver door to door? will it be safe to always use DHL to order?thank you in advance for the help

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Alvin!

      I recommend using a forwarding service, one that is good at US to PH forwarding is LBC Shipping Cart, you will surely receive it door to door. I made a review about them, just search here on my blog. :)

      Delete
  88. Hi ask ako lang mag oreder ako sa ebay. From japan galing yung item and i used ems. Gano katagal bago ko makuha yung item sa philpost? And kasama ba sa tax yung shipping cost? kasi ang binayaran ko sa shipping is 20dollars then 8 dollars lang yung item.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Normally, EMS packages ends up like normal packages when it arrives in the country.

      If you track your package and it's already in the Philippines, expect it to arrive in your nearest post office in 2-3 weeks time --- that is if your package doesn't get stuck at customs Pasay office. :)

      Delete
  89. Sir Bam! I just ordered a 2nd hand Kpop album, coming from the US. Ngayon po worried ako sa tax once dumating yun dito sa Philippines. Standard Int'l Shipping po yung ginamit nung seller as shipping mode. Is there any possibility na mahold yun sa BOC? Thanks in advance!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Herbert!

      Nice to see you here. :)

      Yes, there's always a possibility since it was sent through standard shipping and not via special courier like DHL / UPS. For now, just keep a lookout on the notification card that you'll be receiving. :)

      Delete
  90. I was charge P112 per package, before its only P100. They say its 2016 rates. Anyone got this experienced? Philpost I mean

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Reeko!

      I heard they did an increase again and now charging 112php instead of the 2015 rate of 100php.

      Delete
  91. Hi good evening. umorder po ako sa ebay. After 2 days nag-email po yung ebay sa akin. They informed me na na-shipped na po daw yung item. Pero bakit wala pong tracking number na kanilang binigay sa akin? Okay lang po ba yun? Any response will be highly appreciated. Thank you. Please let me know. This is my email add. lucielosingidas@yahoo.com. Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Christian,

      Normally, it is indicated in the page of the item you bought if it's Standard Shipping or not. If it's standard, normally they don't provide tracking numbers. :)

      Delete
  92. Hi good evening. umorder po ako sa ebay. After 2 days nag-email po yung ebay sa akin. They informed me na na-shipped na po daw yung item. Pero bakit wala pong tracking number na kanilang binigay sa akin? Okay lang po ba yun? Any response will be highly appreciated. Thank you. Please let me know. This is my email add. lucielosingidas@yahoo.com. Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  93. hi po :D sir bumili ako ng item sa ebay ship na po pero yung name po ay elmer jr dapat elmer ayukil so pano po to sir? pano ko po ito ma kukuha/ ibibigay lang ba nila ito?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Mikel!

      It's best contact the seller immediately about concerns like this. Please note that when getting packages from the post office, the package name needs to match the name on your ID's.

      Delete
  94. I bought a 32GB USB stick for around $3/P150 including postage, sent from HK. It was ordered at Christmas and a bill has just arrived in the post with instructions to pick it up at the local postoffice Alabang, Muntinlupa. Post office charge P112 and what looks like customs P945! Could be P for package no 945 but have to check at the post office tomorrow. Does anyone know if there is a lower limit where import duty is not charged?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Simon!

      The 112php charge is for postal and storage charge, as for the P945 I think that's the code of your package in their storage because the customs cannot put the amount they need to charge if the package is not yet opened in front of you. Normally, for things like that, they don't put customs tax, don't worry. :)

      Delete
  95. Hi. When you paid using paypal, did you also pay for paypal fees?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Juan!

      No paypal fees. Normally, only local sellers do extra 'paypal processing fees' because they are charged by Paypal when receiving payments.

      Delete
  96. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  97. Hi Sir. bibili sana ako ng pocket knife or karambit deadly weapon po yan sa ebay hindi ba yan e confiscated ng philpost?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think weapons like that is not allowed. But to make sure, please call the PHLpost office, the number is on their website. :)

      Delete
  98. hi sir alex,

    wala po ba tayong tax calculator na accurate sa phil, custom?

    ung tax po ba e by item or by total na order lahat?

    salamat sir.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Nick!

      Unfortunately, there's no official online tax calculator right now.

      Tax are made by package - so if there multiple items in your package, they will charge you one time for all the items inside the package. :)

      Delete
  99. Hi Alex,

    my balak kc akong bilhin sa ebay, portable cutting machine sya, nsa 270usd price nya. from US yung item then my nkalagay na 50usd shipping and 50usd import charges. kpag binayaran ko ba yung amount na to wala na ko dapat pang bayaran kpag nakuha ko na yung item and idedeliver ba sya sa doorstep ko kasi medyo malaki yung item and taga mindoro pa ako? pakicheck naman yung link nung item na plan ko ipurchase.

    http://www.ebay.ph/itm/Silhouette-CAMEO-Bundle-Vinyl-Kit-Pixscan-Mat-Pens-Rep-Blade-Tools-Shadow-Box-/381481622386?hash=item58d2139b72:g:nMEAAOSwnipWXwpO

    Thank you and hoping for your advise.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I recommend using LBC Shipping Cart. Buy the item, send it over to your 'US address' provided by LBC Shipping Cart and pay the shipping. You'll receive the item straight to your door without the hassle of transacting with customs.

      I have a blog about their service, just search it in the search box above. :)

      Delete

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