Import & Export Services in Bangladesh — Complete Guide 2026
Bangladesh is one of the fastest-growing economies in South Asia, with annual trade exceeding USD 100 billion. Whether you are importing raw materials for your factory or exporting garments to international buyers, you need a logistics partner who understands Bangladesh customs regulations, shipping routes, and documentation requirements.
ICS Express offers end-to-end import and export services in Bangladesh — air freight, sea freight, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery. We help businesses in Dhaka, Chittagong, and across the country move goods across borders smoothly and affordably.
This guide covers everything you need to know about importing and exporting from Bangladesh — pricing, documentation, customs process, and tips to avoid delays.
Bangladesh Trade Overview — Key Facts
Understanding Bangladesh’s trade landscape helps you make better shipping decisions:
- Total annual trade: Over USD 100 billion (imports + exports)
- Main export: Ready-Made Garments (RMG) — 84% of total exports, worth USD 45+ billion
- Main imports: Raw materials for textiles, machinery, chemicals, electronics, food
- Top trading partners: China, India, USA, Germany, UK, European Union
- Primary port: Chittagong Port — handles 90%+ of Bangladesh’s international trade
- LDC graduation: Bangladesh is transitioning from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, which will affect trade benefits and tariffs
Import Services We Offer
Bringing goods into Bangladesh requires careful planning. ICS Express handles every step:
1. Customs Clearance for Imports
Our licensed customs brokers manage all documentation — bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and import registration. We ensure compliance with Bangladesh Customs and NBR (National Board of Revenue) requirements. Typical clearance time: 1–3 business days for air cargo, 3–7 days for sea cargo.
2. Sea Freight Import (FCL & LCL)
We handle Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments through Chittagong Port. Our network covers major origin ports in China, India, Europe, and the USA. Transit time: 20–35 days depending on origin.
3. Air Freight Import
For urgent shipments, our air freight service delivers from any major global hub to Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in 3–7 business days.
Export Services We Offer
Exporting from Bangladesh opens doors to global markets. Here is how we help:
1. Export Documentation
We prepare all export documents — bill of lading, certificate of origin (including GSP for preferential duty rates), packing list, commercial invoice, and export permits. Our team ensures your goods comply with both Bangladesh export regulations and destination country requirements.
2. Sea Freight Export
Regular sailings from Chittagong Port to major global destinations including USA (East Coast, West Coast), UK, Europe, Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
3. Air Freight Export
Express air freight from Dhaka to worldwide destinations. Ideal for time-sensitive exports like garments, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.
4. Door-to-Door Export
Complete export solution — pickup from your factory, export customs clearance, international shipping, import customs clearance, and delivery to your buyer’s doorstep.
Import & Export Pricing Guide
Below are reference prices for common shipping routes. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific cargo.
| Service | Route | Cargo | Price (BDT) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight Express | Bangladesh → USA | 1–5 kg | 1,500–4,500 | 3–5 days |
| Air Freight Express | Bangladesh → UK | 1–5 kg | 1,200–3,800 | 3–5 days |
| Air Freight Express | Bangladesh → UAE | 1–5 kg | 800–2,500 | 2–4 days |
| Air Freight Economy | Bangladesh → USA/UK/EU | 5–20 kg | 4,500–15,000 | 7–10 days |
| Sea Freight LCL | Bangladesh → USA | 1–5 CBM | 25,000–80,000 | 25–35 days |
| Sea Freight LCL | Bangladesh → UK/Europe | 1–5 CBM | 20,000–65,000 | 20–30 days |
| Sea Freight FCL (20ft) | Any Global Port | Up to 28 tons | 80,000–200,000 | 20–35 days |
| Sea Freight FCL (40ft) | Any Global Port | Up to 30 tons | 120,000–350,000 | 20–35 days |
| Customs Clearance | All Destinations | Per shipment | 5,000–25,000 | 1–3 days |
Prices are indicative. Actual costs depend on cargo weight, dimensions, and destination. Get a free quote.
Documents Required for Import & Export in Bangladesh
Proper documentation is the key to smooth customs clearance. Here is what you typically need:
For Import:
- Bill of Lading (BOL) or Airway Bill (AWB)
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Import Registration Certificate (IRC)
- Letter of Credit (LC) or Contract
- HS Code Declaration
For Export:
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin (GSP if applicable)
- Export Registration Certificate (ERC)
- Export Permit (for specific goods)
How Our Import & Export Process Works
- Share your cargo details — type, weight, dimensions, origin, and destination. We provide a quote within 24 hours.
- Documentation preparation — our team prepares all shipping documents, customs forms, and permits.
- Pickup and handling — we arrange cargo pickup from your location in Dhaka, Chittagong, or anywhere in Bangladesh.
- Customs clearance — we manage customs clearance at both origin and destination.
- Shipping and delivery — your cargo is shipped via the most efficient route and delivered to the final destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does customs clearance take in Bangladesh?
With proper documentation, customs clearance takes 1–3 business days for air cargo and 3–7 business days for sea cargo. Incomplete paperwork is the main cause of delays.
What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping?
FCL (Full Container Load) means your goods fill an entire container. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your goods share container space with other shipments. LCL is more cost-effective for smaller shipments under 15 CBM.
What is an HS Code and why is it important?
HS Code is a standardized system for classifying traded products. Correct HS Code determines the duty rate, taxes, and regulations for your goods. Our team ensures accurate HS Code classification.
Do you handle hazardous materials and special cargo?
Yes, we handle DG (Dangerous Goods) cargo in compliance with IATA and IMDG regulations. Special packaging, labeling, and documentation are required. Contact us in advance.
Can ICS Express help with export permits and certifications?
Yes. We assist with export permits, certificates of origin (including GSP), and other regulatory requirements for both import and export shipments.
Start Your Import-Export Journey with ICS Express
Whether you are importing raw materials for your business or exporting products to international buyers, ICS Express is your trusted logistics partner in Bangladesh. We handle the complex paperwork, customs procedures, and shipping logistics so you can focus on growing your business.
📞 Call us: 01342-372309
📧 Email: info@internationalcourierbd.com
📍 Office: House-489, Road-32, Mohakhali DOHS, Dhaka-1212
Contact us today for a free consultation and personalized quote.
