The most prominent issue with shipping goods to Saudi Arabia is high customs clearance difficulty. As an Islamic country, Saudi's customs clearance is heavily regulated by religious, cultural and policy factors, and it is regarded as one of the most challenging countries for customs clearance worldwide. Since 2025, all cargo must obtain SABER certification. Even a single letter error in document information may result in cargo detention and hefty port storage charges. During Ramadan, ports operate on a half‑day schedule, further prolonging customs clearance cycles.
Strict control over prohibited and restricted items is another common problem. Based on religious and security principles, Saudi Arabia has clearly defined prohibited and restricted goods. Pork and pork products, alcoholic beverages, and religiously sensitive items are strictly forbidden. Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and other products require prior approval from relevant authorities. Accidental shipment of prohibited or restricted goods may lead to cargo seizure, destruction or fines.
Unstable logistics lead times also trouble many shippers. Due to reduced Red Sea shipping capacity and port congestion, container dwell time at major ports such as Jeddah Port has increased significantly. In addition, Saudi Arabia has an imperfect address system, causing frequent last‑mile delivery delays. Navigation failures and repeated delivery attempts may even occur in remote areas.
Difficulties in shipment tracking and cost control are also prevalent. Some logistics tracking information is updated infrequently, leading to issues such as untraceable tracking numbers and long‑term stagnant statuses. Meanwhile, port congestion has driven up warehousing costs, and local employment policies have increased labor expenses. Combined factors make logistics costs hard to manage, adding operational pressure to shippers.
ONTASK LOGISTICS focuses on the Saudi special line, providing customers with efficient and reliable Saudi cargo, with a focus on the Middle East region. With overseas warehouses in Jeddah and Riyadh, along with a self-managed Chinese delivery team, we empower Chinese products to go global and benefit all humanity!