What is An Importer of Record in the Philippines?
An Importer of Record (IOR) in the Philippines is a third-party entity legally responsible for ensuring that your imported goods comply with local regulations. This includes securing the necessary permits, filing the mandated documents with the Bureau of Customs and other agencies, as well as facilitating customs clearance.
The IOR acts as the official consignee on record, taking full accountability for the shipment’s legality and accuracy of declarations to ensure smooth entry into the country.
Why is An Importer of Record Essential?
Importing into the Philippines comes with strict regulations. An IOR ensures that your goods can enter the country legally and quickly without costly mistakes.
Legal Compliance
An IOR ensures all imports meet the requirements of the Bureau of Customs and relevant government agencies, preventing legal issues and shipment delays.
Accurate Duties and Taxes
Handling accurate calculations and payment of import duties, VAT, and other fees, reducing the risk of penalties or overpayment.
Smooth Customs Clearance
Managing paperwork and coordination with customs, ensuring faster clearance and fewer delays at the respective ports.
Core Requirements for Importing with an IOR in the Philippines
- Registered IOR with Bureau of Internal Revenue Tax Identification Number and Bureau of Customs accreditation.
- Import Clearance Certificate.
- Complete shipping documents, including Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, HS Codes, Certificate of Origin, and Packing List.
- Product-Specific Permits.
- Written Authorization designating Emerhub as the Importer of Record.
- Legal company incorporation.
How Emerhub’s Importer of Record Process Works
1
Submit Your Documents for Review
Notify your overseas supplier that Emerhub will be your Importer of Record, and share with us your shipping documents, product specifications, and any relevant certifications for review. We will ensure your application is compliant.
2
Secure Import Permits and Pre-Arrival Registration
Our import experts will handle all the pre-import steps, including securing the Import Clearance Certificate (ICC) from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and registering your shipment with the Bureau of Customs (BOC). We will also advise you on product classification to prevent any misdeclaration issues.
3
Manage Customs Entry and Duties
Once the shipment lands, we will take care of lodging customs entries, paying duties and taxes, and liaising directly with customs officers to ensure timely processing without unnecessary delays.
4
Coordinate Final Release and Delivery
After clearance, we will arrange for the official release of your goods and coordinate local transport to your warehouse, store, or distribution center to complete your import journey.
Have questions or need more information?
Why Partner with Emerhub for IOR in the Philippines?
Our team of experts supports you at every stage of the import journey, from shipment preparation to local delivery.
Proven Import Compliance
Our team’s 14 years of hands-on experience and deep understanding of local laws ensure you avoid costly mistakes and shipment delays.
Complete Market Support
We assist with more than just customs clearance and imports; our experts will set you up with warehousing, local distribution, and retail channels within the Philippines.
Trusted Trade Partnerships
Our established relationships with local regulators and logistics providers ensure smooth import operations to keep your imports moving.
FAQs on the Philippines’ Importer of Record Services
An IOR is legally responsible for customs compliance, paying duties, and ensuring all regulatory requirements are met. The consignee is the party receiving the shipment. In some cases, they are the same entity, but they can also be separate service providers, especially for foreign companies.
Industries that often use IOR services include technology and electronics, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and retail businesses importing goods for resale.
Yes, provided that the IOR handling the shipment has proper licenses and permits for those goods. However, additional processing time may be required for regulatory approvals.
Yes, many businesses set up ongoing arrangements with an IOR to handle multiple shipments under a single contract.
Yes, Emerhub’s IOR service offers warehousing and local distribution beyond just customs clearance. We will ensure your products reach their intended customers quickly and efficiently.
Yes, Emerhub handles both. Whether you need a single shipment cleared or a long-term arrangement for regular imports, we can tailor a service package that suits your needs.
The Latest Info on Import Regulations in the Philippines
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How to Get an Import License in the Philippines
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Guide to Importing Goods into the Philippines
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How to Calculate Import Tax and Duty in the Philippines
Estimate your costs before importing goods to the Philippines.
Get Your IOR Process Started with Emerhub
We’ll help you navigate Importer of Record regulations, paperwork, and customs clearance. Schedule a call with us, and get clarity through every step.
Email Us
philippines@emerhub.com
Call Us
+63 945 726 2635
Visit Us
35th Floor Penthouse, Ecotower, 32nd Street, 9th Ave, Taguig, 1800 Metro Manila, Philippines