Shipping to Madagascar: Planning customs, transit time and import procedures correctly
What companies should consider when shipping parcels to the island in the Indian Ocean
Madagascar lies off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. For goods shipped from Germany, its island location means longer transport routes and import clearance that should be well prepared.
- Shipping from Germany to Madagascar
- Parcel, express and freight solutions
- Compare carriers and shipping costs
- International shipment tracking
- Prepare customs information digitally
- Check EU preferential benefits
- Consider BSC requirements
- Solutions for commercial shipments
10.000+
Shipments / Month
220+
Countries worldwide
< 2 seconds
per label
Up to 80%
günstiger
Good preparation saves a lot of time, especially in Madagascar.
For shipments to Madagascar, the most important product data should be finalized before booking.
This includes the value of the goods, their origin, a precise description of the goods, and the appropriate Customs tariff number or HS code.
For certain goods, health certificates, plant protection documents or import permits are also required.
BSC check early
Many shipments of goods to Madagascar require a Bordereau de Suivi des Cargaisons, or BSC for short. This electronic freight accompanying document contains data about the shipment and supports the preparation of customs clearance.
Describe goods as precisely as possible
The product, material, and intended use should be clearly stated in the description. Generic terms like "parts," "goods," or "equipment" are about as helpful to customs as a blank delivery note.
Correctly prove preferential origin
Goods with preferential EU origin can benefit from preferential treatment under the EU-ESA Economic Partnership Agreement. Since September 1, 2026, proof of corresponding EU exports has been provided via a declaration on the invoice according to the REX system.
Shipping from
41.9 €
Delivery in
3-124 days
Guaranteed total cost for Platinum customers
Checkout-ready
for international orders
DDP / DAP
directly controllable
Carrier selection
including price & duration
More transparency
for dealers & customers
“We have automated our international shipping with the Billbee connection from Paket International and save several hours every day – especially with customs issues.”
Besler-Scharf – DLA Proficiency Tests
Important information about customs and import duties
DAP or DDP to Madagascar: Determine the importer early on.
When shipping to Madagascar, it should be clearly established who will handle the import clearance before the shipment.
For DAP The seller organizes transport to the agreed destination. Customs duties, VAT, and other import costs are generally the responsibility of the recipient.
For DDP In contrast, the seller assumes the agreed obligations and costs of importation.
DDP should be assessed individually for Madagascar.
Standard customs clearance must generally be carried out by an authorized customs agent. A company can only handle customs clearance itself if it has the appropriate authorization.
Therefore, the following should be clarified before a DDP delivery:
- who acts as an importer
- which customs agent handles the clearance
- who organizes the BSC
- who pays customs and VAT
You can find more information about the delivery terms in our guide to DAP and DDP for international shipping.
How are import duties calculated in Madagascar?
The amount of customs duty depends on the specific goods.
The Malagasy customs administration distinguishes, in simplified terms, several typical tariff levels.
The following often apply:
- 5% for certain machinery, equipment and raw materials
- 10% for various semi-finished goods and production materials
- 20% off numerous ready-made products
However, the specific classification is always made based on the customs tariff number.
Different rates or additional trade policy measures may apply to individual goods.
Another special feature is the trade agreement with the European Union.
Goods with EU preferential origin can benefit from reduced customs duties or even duty-free status, depending on the product and the rules of origin.
Further information on the classification can be found at HS code and customs tariff number.
What value-added tax (VAT) applies in Madagascar?
The regular one The VAT rate is 20 percent.A reduced rate of 10 percent applies to butane gas.
For normal goods imports, VAT is calculated on the basis of the customs value plus any applicable customs duties.
The Malagasy customs administration basically describes the calculation as follows:
VAT = (CIF value + import duty) × 20%
The CIF value includes the value of the goods, insurance and freight to Madagascar.
Especially with DDP offers, the pure invoice value should not be the only factor used as the tax basis.
VAT: 20%
BSC: An important special feature regarding imports to Madagascar
When shipping to Madagascar, this plays a role. Bordereau de Suivi des Cargaisons an important role.
The BSC is an electronic document for recording and tracking incoming goods.
The exporter or their representative deposits, among other things, the following for this purpose:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing List
- Transport document
- Shipping data
- Information on exporter and importer
The confirmed BSC is then used for import clearance.
However, there are exceptions.
The Malagasy customs administration, for example, cites certain postal shipments and air freight shipments with an FOB value of no more than 100 euros as possible exceptions.
For express courier shipments, the specific BSC requirement should still be checked before booking, as requirements may differ depending on the shipping method and the shipment.
Sending a package to Madagascar: What companies should clarify beforehand
Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world and lies several hundred kilometers off the east coast of Africa.
This situation also shapes logistics.
International express and parcel shipments predominantly reach the country via Antananarivo. Larger quantities of goods are often transported by sea.
The port of Toamasina is the most important gateway to international trade. Approximately 80 percent of containerized foreign trade is handled through this port.
What documents do I need for Madagascar?
Various documents may be required for commercial imports.
This typically includes:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill or Bill of Lading
- Import declaration
- Certificate of Origin
- BSC
- Import permits may be required.
These documents are also explicitly mentioned in the current import requirements for Madagascar.
A commercial invoice is used for a regular sale of goods.
For free samples, replacement deliveries, or other non-commercial transactions, a pro forma invoice may be useful, depending on the reason for the shipment.
You can find more information in our guide. Commercial invoice or pro forma invoice.
New rules for proof of preferential origin have been in effect since September 2026.
Madagascar participates in the interim Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU and the ESA states.
This is relevant for companies from Germany if their goods have EU preferential origin.
Since September 1, 2026 Proof of preferential origin for goods originating in the EU and destined for Madagascar is generally provided via a declaration on the invoice:
- through an exporter registered in the REX system or
- For originating products up to €6.000, each exporter may do so.
The European Commission explicitly designates this change for Madagascar, Zimbabwe and the Seychelles.
This means that new exports should not simply continue to be processed using old EUR.1 procedures.
The EU-ESA agreement will be further expanded.
In June 2026, the EU, along with Madagascar, Mauritius, the Comoros and the Seychelles, concluded negotiations on an enhanced Economic Partnership Agreement.
The new agreement is intended to significantly expand the existing interim agreement, including services, investments, digital trade and additional customs simplifications.
The negotiations have concluded. However, the formal steps leading to full signing and entry into force are still underway. Until then, the existing interim agreement remains the central basis for trade in goods.
How long does it take for a package to arrive in Madagascar?
The runtime depends heavily on the chosen service.
DHL Parcel currently specifies a delivery time estimate of 6 to 14 working days.
DHL Express Worldwide is significantly faster. The current transit time table indicates approximately [timeframe] for major destinations. 3 business days.
Outside of major cities, delivery may take longer.
Write the correct address for Madagascar
DHL requires addresses in Latin letters and Arabic numerals.
An address can be structured like this, for example:
Recipient / Company
street, building or plumb line
district
101 ANTANANARIVO
MADAGASCAR / MADAGASCAR
DHL specifies the following for the customs declaration: English and French as permitted languages.
The recipient's phone number and email address should also be provided.
Compare shipping costs to Madagascar
The price depends on the specific shipment.
Particularly relevant are:
- Weight
- Dimensions
- Volumetric weight
- destination
- Type of goods
- Runtime
- Carrier
Via the <strong>integrated datalog</strong> the measuring values can be stored on the humimeter RH5 paper moisture meter and additional data can be added. You also have the possibility to use the Autolog function. This function automatically saves measuring values in adjustable time intervals. Shipping cost calculator from Paket International Businesses can compare available shipping options.
These points cause particular problems when shipping to Madagascar
When traveling to a remote island destination, small mistakes can quickly cost extra days.
Particularly important are:
- Check BSC requirements in advance
- Complete the commercial invoice in full
- Clearly describe goods
- Use the correct customs tariff number
- Correctly prove preferential origin
- Obtain import permits in a timely manner
- Check health and plant protection documents
- Enter complete recipient details
Customs authorities can verify shipments through documentation, scanning, or physical inspection. The choice depends on the specific customs procedure and risk profile.
The destination also affects the travel time.
Outside of major economic centers, the road infrastructure is sometimes poor. During the rainy season, roughly from December to March, some regions can be more difficult to reach.
Therefore, for time-critical spare parts, one should not only consider the international transit time to Antananarivo.
What goods are shipped from Germany to Madagascar?
Madagascar relies on imports for many industrial and consumer goods.
Technically sophisticated products may be of particular interest to German companies:
- Machines and machine components
- Spare parts
- Tools
- electronical devices
- Measurement and testing technology
- Medical Technology
- car parts
- industrielle Bedarf
Additional import conditions may apply to foodstuffs, plants, animal products, seeds or pharmaceutical goods.
For example, the Malagasy customs authorities require import permits and health certificates for meat. Phytosanitary documentation may be required for plants, seeds, and various plant products.
You can find more international shipping destinations in our Country overview.
Shipping information: Madagascar
Parcel, express or freight: Which is suitable for Madagascar?
For smaller and less time-critical goods, international parcel services are an option.
DHL's current standard delivery time is approximately between 6 and 14 working days.
For urgently needed spare parts, medical products, or important business shipments, a Express shipping to Madagascar be useful.
DHL Express currently estimates approximately three working days for major destinations.
For machine components, several cartons, or larger quantities of goods, a Pallet shipping or individual freight solutions might be more economical.
You can find an overview at international shipping methods.
Why Toamasina is so important for trade
Antananarivo International Airport plays an important role for parcel and express shipments.
Larger quantities of goods often reach Madagascar by sea.
The port of toamasina The country's most important container port is located on the east coast. Around 80 percent of containerized import and export traffic is handled there.
Other port locations include:
- Majajanga
- Antsiranana
- Toliara
- Taolagnaro / Fort Dauphin
After arrival, the goods often need to be transported further via road, coastal shipping or other regional connections.
Therefore, for large or heavy goods, a individual freight solution be useful.
What import costs can be incurred in Madagascar?
Import costs depend heavily on the goods.
Possible cost components include:
- Import duty
- 20% VAT
- Additional taxes may apply.
- Customs broker and clearance costs
- BSC costs
- possible approval or inspection costs
For many goods, the regular customs duties are 5, 10 or 20 percent.
VAT is generally calculated on the CIF value plus import duty.
If the goods have preferential EU origin, the EU-ESA agreement can reduce or completely eliminate customs duties.
General information can be found in our guide to Customs and import duties.
How much does a package to Madagascar cost?
A flat rate would be of little use for this shipping destination.
A small express parcel to Antananarivo is charged differently than several heavy boxes or a delivery to a remote region.
The decisive factors are:
- Weight
- Volumetric weight
- Dimensions
- Destination address
- Type of goods
- Shipping speed
- Carrier
Additionally, potential import costs should be taken into account.
Current shipping options can be found via the Shipping cost calculator to compare.
Online trade to Madagascar: Communicate import costs openly
For online retailers, Madagascar is not a typical, straightforward B2C market.
Customs duties, 20 percent VAT, and possible handling and document costs can significantly change the final price of an order.
For DAP The buyer is generally responsible for import clearance and any resulting import costs.
A DDP solution can be more transparent for the customer. However, it should only be offered if the carrier, customs agent, and import details have been clarified in advance.
Online retailers should pay particular attention to:
- Enter the correct customs tariff number
- State the full value of the goods.
- Check import restrictions
- Consider BSC requirements
- Include VAT and any applicable customs duties in your calculations.
- Don't specify delivery times too short a time.
You can find more information about the delivery terms in our guide to DAP and DDP.
Madagascar 2026: New customs rules meet modernized EU trade
2026 is an interesting year for trade with Madagascar.
At the beginning of the year, a revised Malagasy customs law came into force. Among other things, regulations concerning customs valuation and various customs procedures were modernized.
At the same time, trade relations with the European Union are also developing further.
Negotiations on a modernized EU-ESA Economic Partnership Agreement were concluded in June 2026.
And since September 2026, the new REX-based proof of preferential origin applies to the export of EU-originating goods to Madagascar.
For companies, this means:
Old templates and customs processes should not be used without review when shipping to Madagascar.
Especially for regular B2B deliveries, it is worthwhile to conduct an up-to-date check of origin, customs tariff and documents.
Which carrier is suitable for a shipment to Madagascar?
When shipping to Madagascar, the choice of carrier depends particularly on time and destination region.
The following should be compared:
- Shipping price
- Runtime
- Target region
- Weight limits
- maximum dimensions
- Customs service
- Tracking
- BSC liquidation
Express shipping may be of interest for urgent business shipments to Antananarivo.
Standard services are suitable for less time-critical goods.
For larger quantities of goods, air or sea freight solutions may be more economical.
Paket International allows companies to compare available shipping services for their specific shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping
Can I send a package from Germany to Madagascar?
Yes. Parcels, express shipments, and business shipments can be sent from Germany to Madagascar. Since Madagascar is not part of the European Union, customs information is required for shipments.
How long does it take for a package to arrive in Madagascar?
DHL Parcel currently estimates delivery times of 6 to 14 business days. DHL Express Worldwide takes approximately three business days to major destinations. Actual delivery times may be longer depending on the destination region and customs clearance.
What is the value added tax (VAT) rate in Madagascar?
The standard VAT rate is 20 percent. Upon import, the tax is generally calculated based on the CIF value plus any applicable customs duties.
What are the customs duties in Madagascar?
Customs duties depend on the specific goods. Typical standard rates are 5 percent for certain equipment and raw materials, 10 percent for various semi-finished goods, and 20 percent for numerous finished products. Preferential rates may apply to goods originating in the EU.
What is a BSC for Madagascar?
BSC stands for Bordereau de Suivi des Cargaisons. It is an electronic freight accompanying document required for many imports to Madagascar and must be validated before customs clearance.
Do I need a BSC for every small package?
Not always. The Malagasy customs authorities cite certain postal shipments and air freight shipments with an FOB value of no more than €100 as exceptions. However, for express courier shipments, the specific requirements should still be checked before sending.
Is there a trade agreement between the EU and Madagascar?
Yes. Madagascar participates in the EU-ESA Economic Partnership Agreement. This means that goods with preferential EU origin may be subject to reduced or waived import duties. The existing agreement is currently being further modernized.
Do I need a EUR.1 for Madagascar?
For EU exports, the procedure changed on September 1, 2026. Proof of preferential origin is now generally provided by a declaration on the invoice from a REX-registered exporter. For originating products valued at up to €6.000, the declaration can also be made by a non-registered exporter.
Our export analysis provides you with security and an overview.
What documents do I need for Madagascar?
Typically, a commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, and import declaration are required. Additional documents may include a Certificate of Origin, BSC, proof of preferential origin, and product-specific import permits.
Can I ship DDP to Madagascar?
DDP may be possible depending on the carrier and import details. Since standard customs clearance is generally handled by an authorized customs broker, it should be clarified before booking who will act as the importer and take care of local customs clearance.
Which goods require special permits?
Additional regulations apply to animals, meat, plants, seeds, certain foodstuffs, weapons, medicines, and other controlled goods. Depending on the product, import permits, health certificates, or phytosanitary certificates may be required.
In which language should I fill out the customs documents?
DHL specifies English and French as acceptable languages for customs declarations for shipments to Madagascar. The address should be written in Latin letters and Arabic numerals.
