The E-Commerce Challenge
The rapid growth of e-commerce means a high volume of small, low-value parcels arriving by air. To manage this influx efficiently, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) implemented the Electronic Pre-Alert Manifest (ePAM) system, a streamlined process for licensed courier companies.
ePAM data must be submitted at least two hours before the aircraft's arrival.
The Two Pathways to Clearance
Every e-pouch shipment follows a clear digital path. The journey begins with the ePAM submission, leading to a critical decision point that determines whether goods are released immediately or require a formal declaration.
START: Inbound E-Pouch
Shipment arrives via air at a designated Malaysian airport.
Step 1: Courier Submits ePAM
Data is sent via DFTZ or NSW platform.
Decision: Does the Shipment Meet ALL Immediate Release Criteria?
PATHWAY A: Immediate Release
The shipment is cleared from customs control without a formal K1 declaration. This is the fastest route for compliant, low-risk goods.
PATHWAY B: Formal Declaration
A Customs Form No. 1 (K1) must be electronically lodged via the uCustoms system. Duties and taxes may apply.
Golden Rules for Immediate Release
Value
CIF value must not exceed RM500.00.
Weight
Package weight must not exceed 30 kg.
Goods Type
Must be classified as letters or documents.
Prohibited Items
Goods must not be restricted or prohibited. Excludes tobacco & liquor.
✨ AI-Powered Compliance Assistant
Not sure which pathway your shipment will take? Describe your goods below, and our AI assistant will provide a preliminary analysis based on the rules.
Typical Shipment Clearance Path
Based on a hypothetical batch of e-pouches, the majority qualify for streamlined clearance, but a significant portion requires formal processing.
Top Reasons for K1 Declaration
When shipments don't qualify for immediate release, it's usually due to these common factors.
Key Compliance Checklist
-
✓
Ensure Data Accuracy
Double-check HS codes, CIF value, and importer/exporter details before submission. Accuracy is the foundation of smooth clearance.
-
✓
Monitor Regulatory Updates
Customs rules evolve. Stay updated on RMCD circulars, especially regarding Low-Value Goods (LVG) tax and system changes.
-
✓
Prepare for K1 Declarations
Have a process ready to quickly file a formal K1 via uCustoms for shipments that don't meet immediate release criteria.