Customs Guide — Shipping from Cambodia to Africa

A commercial invoice is the official transaction document between sender and recipient. Customs authorities use it to assess value and duties. It must include:

• Full name and address of sender and recipient
• Detailed description of each item (not "gift" or "samples")
• HS tariff code for each product
• Declared value per item and total in USD
• Country of origin of the goods
• Quantity, unit weight and total weight
• Date and signature of the exporter

Provide at least 2 printed copies — one outside the parcel, one inside.

A packing list is a detailed inventory of parcel contents — without prices. Customs agents verify the contents match the declared goods. Include:

• Item description (material, colour, model)
• Quantity of each item
• Net and gross weight per item
• Package dimensions
• Box or carton number

A typed packing list significantly reduces the risk of physical inspection.

Postal parcels use CN22 (under 300 g / under $300) or CN23 (heavier/higher-value). Couriers use the commercial invoice instead. Key rules:

• Select the correct category: gift, sale, sample, return
• Never write "gift" on a commercial order — this is fraud
• Declare actual fair market value, not cost price
• Print clearly — handwritten smudges cause delays
• For food items, include full ingredient list and country of origin
• Include recipient phone number for delivery notification

The recipient is notified by mail, email or SMS. Common reasons:

• Missing documents — customs requests docs within 5–15 days
• Undervaluation or mismatch — customs reassesses and charges duties
• Prohibited item — returned to sender or destroyed
• Random inspection — opened, verified, released in 1–3 days
• Duty payment required — recipient pays before release

Keep proof of purchase and tracking number. Respond immediately — unclaimed parcels are destroyed after 30 days in most countries.