How to choose a customs broker in Malaysia (2026)

Use a customs agent licensed by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) under the Customs Act 1967, with experience in your goods and ports. Fees are usually charged per declaration, plus any permits, duties and taxes passed through at cost. Ask how they check HS codes, valuation and permit requirements, because errors can lead to penalties for the importer.

Last updated 31 October 2026 · See the Top 10 customs brokers in Malaysia →

Typical costs in Malaysia (2026)

Item	Typical range / basis
Import or export declaration	Roughly RM150–RM500 per declaration
Permit applications (if required)	Per permit
Duties, sales tax and service tax	Passed through at cost
Advisory (HS classification, FTA use)	Quoted per case

Editorial estimates from published rate cards and quotes. Always get written quotes.

Licence or registration to check

Customs agents must be licensed by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department under the Customs Act 1967. Ask for the licence details.

Checklist before you hire

Verify the RMCD customs agent licence
Ask how they confirm HS codes and duty rates
Check experience with permits for your goods
Ask about free trade agreement origin claims
Agree fees and pass-through charges in writing
Keep copies of all declarations

Questions to ask

Which permits do my goods need?
Can we claim preferential duty under an FTA?
How do you handle a customs query or inspection?
Which ports and systems do you work with?
How quickly will I receive declaration copies?

Red flags

No RMCD licence
Suggestions to under-declare value or misclassify goods
Refusal to provide declaration copies
Unexplained 'facilitation' charges

Top-ranked customs brokers right now

Bersatu Integrated Logistics — Port Klang, category score 99
TASCO Berhad — Shah Alam, category score 96
Tiong Nam Logistics — Johor Bahru, category score 86

Full Top 10 → Get matched

FAQ

Who is liable for errors?

The importer or exporter is generally responsible, even when using an agent.

What is an HS code?

A product classification number used to set duty rates and permit rules.

Can I clear goods myself?

In practice most declarations are lodged by licensed agents.