Country Guide - Lebanon

Shipping Rules, Customs, and Clearance Tips

Shipping to Lebanon can be fast when paperwork is complete, but clearance can become slow or expensive if invoices, product descriptions, or restricted-item approvals are missing. Import charges depend on the declared value, item category (HS code), and the clearance channel used by the carrier.

This guide explains what to expect when shipping to Lebanon with Boxit4me, including duties, VAT, restricted items, and practical steps to reduce delays.

Key Things To Know Before Shipping to Lebanon

VAT is 11% standard rate

Lebanon’s standard VAT rate is widely referenced as 11%. See PwC Lebanon VAT summary. Recent government discussions have included a proposed increase (subject to approval), as reported by AP coverage on the proposed VAT change.

Customs duties are often low for many goods, but vary by HS code

Lebanon’s import duties vary by HS code, and trade guidance notes that a large share of imported goods are subject to relatively low duty rates. See Lebanon import tariffs (ITA Country Commercial Guide). For process notes and how customs valuation is handled, see Lebanon customs regulations (ITA).

Use the official customs database to check duty by tariff number

The ITA guide points to the Lebanese Customs Administration database for checking import duty by tariff number. Start from Lebanon import tariffs (ITA) and use the referenced Lebanese Customs portal at Lebanese Customs Administration.

Practical takeaway:

• Missing documents can cause holds or extra requests
• Clear, itemized invoices and accurate product descriptions reduce friction
• Restricted categories can require additional approvals or may be refused

Duties and VAT in Lebanon (Practical Overview)

Import charges can include:

• Customs duty: varies by HS code and category; see Lebanon import tariffs (ITA)
• VAT: standard 11% rate is commonly referenced; see PwC Lebanon VAT summary
• Additional fees: carrier clearance processing, disbursement/advancement fees, and storage if documents or payments are delayed (carrier-dependent)

Important: Final amounts depend on HS code classification and customs valuation. For customs process context, see Lebanon customs regulations (ITA).

Documents That Commonly Help Clearance

To reduce delays, prepare (and ensure the receiver can provide quickly):

• Commercial invoice / store receipt (itemized)
• Proof of payment (transaction confirmation)
• Clear product descriptions (brand, model, material, intended use)
• Receiver identification (often requested for clearance)
• Any permits/approvals for restricted categories (when applicable)

For a trade-oriented overview of typical documentation expectations, see Lebanon import requirements and documentation (ITA).

Prohibited and Restricted Items (Common Triggers)

Lebanon applies restrictions across multiple categories, and some items may be banned, require approvals, or be subject to special compliance steps.

For authoritative, category-based examples, see Lebanon prohibited and restricted imports (ITA).

Common trigger categories include:

• Cedar seeds and seedlings (protected species controls)
• Specific food/health controlled goods (category-dependent restrictions)
• Certain waste, scrap, slag, and ash materials (environmental controls)
• Older vehicles beyond age limits (environmental controls)

For Boxit4me customer-friendly packing guidance, follow prohibited and restricted items.

How To Reduce Delays and Extra Charges

• Declare accurately (match invoice totals and package contents)
• Use specific item descriptions (avoid generic “electronics” or “accessories”)
• Avoid restricted categories unless approvals are ready
• Consolidate thoughtfully: don’t mix regulated items with standard items
• Respond quickly to any carrier documentation request
• If you’re combining packages, review package consolidation before shipping