How to Apply for Import Commodity Clearance (ICC)
The Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) is a mandatory certification issued by the Department of Trade and Industry - Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) that ensures imported products sold in the Philippine market comply with the relevant Philippine National Standards (PNS). If you are importing regulated products such as electrical appliances, electronics, construction materials, or household goods, you must obtain an ICC before these products can be released from customs and distributed in the country. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire ICC application process -- from determining whether your product needs an ICC, to preparing documents, paying fees, undergoing product testing, and receiving your clearance.
Import Commodity Clearance at a Glance
Processing Time
15 to 30 working days from submission of complete requirements, depending on the type of ICC and product complexity. Testing timelines may extend the overall processing.
Validity
Varies by type: ICC Sticker is typically valid for 1 to 3 years (brand/model-specific). ICC per Shipment is valid only for that specific shipment or consignment.
Where to Apply
DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), 3rd Floor, Trade and Industry Building, 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City. Applications may also be submitted online through the BPS portal.
Types of ICC
Two types: (1) ICC Sticker -- for regular importers, brand/model-specific, valid 1-3 years; (2) ICC per Shipment -- one-time clearance for a specific consignment, for occasional importers.
What is Import Commodity Clearance (ICC)?
The Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) is a product certification scheme administered by the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) under the authority of Republic Act No. 4109 (the Standards Law) and its implementing rules. The ICC ensures that imported consumer products entering the Philippine market meet the minimum quality and safety requirements prescribed by the relevant Philippine National Standards (PNS). Without an ICC, regulated imported products cannot be legally released from the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and cannot be sold, distributed, or offered to Filipino consumers.
The ICC program is part of the government's broader effort to protect Filipino consumers from substandard and potentially dangerous imported products. By requiring importers to submit their products for testing and evaluation against Philippine National Standards, the BPS ensures that only products that meet safety, quality, and performance benchmarks reach the local market.
Legal Basis
- Republic Act No. 4109 -- the Philippine Standards Law, which established the Bureau of Philippine Standards and mandated product standards for consumer protection.
- DTI Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2 -- the Revised Rules and Regulations on Product Certification and the ICC Scheme, which outlines the procedures, requirements, and fees for obtaining an ICC.
- Bureau of Customs (BOC) Customs Memorandum Orders -- requiring ICC clearance before the release of certain imported products from customs.
ICC (Import Commodity Clearance)
For Imported Products
Certifies that imported products meet Philippine National Standards before they can be released from customs and sold in the local market. Required for regulated imported consumer goods.
- Applies to imported products only
- Issued by DTI-BPS
- Required before customs release
- Product testing against PNS required
PS Mark (Philippine Standard Mark)
For Locally Manufactured Products
Certifies that locally manufactured products comply with Philippine National Standards. Manufacturers apply for a PS License, and approved products bear the PS Mark on their labels and packaging.
- Applies to locally manufactured products
- Issued by DTI-BPS
- Factory audit may be required
- PS Mark affixed on product labels
Products Requiring ICC
Not all imported products require an ICC. The BPS maintains a list of regulated products covered under mandatory Philippine National Standards. If your imported product falls under any of the following categories, you are required to obtain an ICC before the product can be released from customs and sold in the Philippines. The table below lists the major product categories and examples:
| Product Category | Examples of Covered Products | Applicable PNS |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Products | Extension cords, plugs and outlets, switches, circuit breakers, wiring devices, electrical cables, power strips, electrical tape | PNS IEC 60884, PNS IEC 60669, PNS IEC 60898 |
| Electronics & Lighting | LED bulbs and lamps, fluorescent lamps, ballasts, batteries, chargers, power adapters, self-ballasted lamps (CFLs) | PNS IEC 62560, PNS IEC 60081, PNS IEC 61347 |
| Household Appliances | Electric fans, rice cookers, flat irons, blenders, water heaters, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, microwave ovens, electric stoves | PNS IEC 60335 series |
| Construction Materials | Steel bars (rebars), cement, GI sheets, plywood, PVC pipes and fittings, roofing materials, structural steel, tiles | PNS 49, PNS 07, PNS 67 series |
| Automotive Parts | Tires, brake pads, brake linings, automotive batteries, safety glass, automotive lighting, motorcycle helmets | PNS ISO 4210, PNS DOT standards |
| Consumer Chemical Products | Detergent bars, laundry detergent powder, household insecticides, matches, LPG cylinders and regulators | PNS 200, PNS 1427, PNS 1187 |
| Personal Protective Equipment | Safety helmets, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, safety footwear, high-visibility clothing | PNS ISO 3873, PNS ISO 7240 |
Note: The list of regulated products is periodically updated by the BPS. Always check the latest BPS Product Certification list at bps.dti.gov.ph or contact BPS directly to confirm if your specific product requires an ICC.
Types of ICC
The DTI-BPS offers two types of Import Commodity Clearance, each designed for different import scenarios. The type of ICC you need depends on the frequency and nature of your importation activities.
ICC Sticker
For Regular Importers
The ICC Sticker is a product-specific and brand/model-specific clearance intended for importers who regularly bring in the same product on a continuing basis. Once approved, each unit of the imported product is affixed with an ICC sticker, indicating compliance with PNS.
- Validity: 1 to 3 years depending on the product and the surveillance results
- Scope: Covers all shipments of the specific brand, model, and product for the duration of the validity
- Sticker requirement: Each unit must bear the official BPS ICC sticker before sale
- Best for: Importers who bring in the same brand/model regularly (e.g., authorized distributors)
- Renewable: Yes, before expiration through a renewal application
ICC per Shipment
For Occasional Importers
The ICC per Shipment is a one-time clearance issued for a specific consignment or shipment. It is designed for importers who import regulated products on an occasional or one-time basis and do not need a standing ICC Sticker certificate.
- Validity: One-time only, applicable only to the specific shipment covered by the application
- Scope: Covers only the particular consignment identified in the application (by shipment details, quantity, and invoice)
- Sticker requirement: No ICC sticker needed; the clearance document serves as proof
- Best for: Occasional importers, traders importing a specific batch, or importers bringing in products for testing/evaluation purposes
- Renewable: Not applicable; a new application is needed for each shipment
Requirements for ICC Application
The following documents must be prepared and submitted to DTI-BPS as part of your ICC application. Requirements may differ slightly between an ICC Sticker and ICC per Shipment application. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submission to avoid delays.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Duly Accomplished Application Form | The official BPS ICC application form (BPS Form No. 301 for ICC Sticker or BPS Form No. 302 for ICC per Shipment). This can be downloaded from the BPS website at bps.dti.gov.ph or obtained in person at the BPS office. The form must be completely filled out with accurate product, company, and import details. |
| Business Registration Documents | Certified copy of SEC Registration (for corporations and partnerships) or DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration (for sole proprietors). Must include Articles of Incorporation or Partnership, as applicable. These prove that the applicant is a legally registered business entity in the Philippines. |
| Import Documents | Commercial Invoice -- detailing product description, quantity, unit price, and total value. Packing List -- showing the breakdown of items per carton/package. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill -- proof of shipment and transportation. These documents are essential for ICC per Shipment applications and for verifying the consignment details. |
| Product Test Report from Accredited Laboratory | A test report from a BPS-recognized or internationally accredited testing laboratory (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025-accredited lab) showing that the product has been tested against the applicable Philippine National Standard (PNS) or equivalent international standard. The test report must be recent (generally within 2 years) and must reference the specific brand, model, and specifications of the product being imported. |
| Product Samples and/or Photographs | BPS may require actual product samples for in-house testing or evaluation. At minimum, high-resolution photographs of the product, product label, packaging, markings, and rating plate (for electrical/electronic products) must be submitted. Photos should clearly show all required safety markings and specifications. |
| Authorization Letter from Manufacturer | A letter from the foreign manufacturer or brand owner authorizing the Philippine importer to import and distribute their products in the Philippines. This letter must be on the manufacturer's official letterhead, signed by an authorized representative, and must specify the product brand, model numbers, and the name of the authorized Philippine importer. |
| Certificate of Conformity / Quality Certificate | A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) or quality certificate issued by the manufacturer or a recognized certification body confirming that the product meets applicable international standards (e.g., IEC, ISO). If the manufacturer has ISO 9001 certification, a copy of the valid ISO 9001 certificate should also be included. |
| Import Entry / Customs Declaration (for ICC per Shipment) | For ICC per Shipment applications, the applicant must submit a copy of the Import Entry and Internal Revenue Declaration (IEIRD) or the Informal Entry filed with the Bureau of Customs. This links the ICC application to the specific shipment awaiting customs release. |
Step-by-Step ICC Application Process
The following steps outline the complete process for obtaining an Import Commodity Clearance from the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards. Whether you are applying for an ICC Sticker or ICC per Shipment, the general process follows these stages:
Determine if Your Product Requires ICC
Before importing your product, check with the DTI-BPS whether the product falls under the list of regulated imported commodities that require ICC certification. You can review the BPS Product Certification list on the BPS website at bps.dti.gov.ph or contact BPS directly at (02) 8751-3120. Provide the product description, HS Code (Harmonized System Code), and intended use to get a definitive answer.
Tip: Not sure about the HS Code? Consult your customs broker or check the Tariff Commission website. The HS Code determines which Philippine National Standard (PNS) applies to your product and whether an ICC is required.
Prepare All Required Documents
Gather all the necessary documents listed in the requirements section above. This includes the duly accomplished BPS application form, business registration documents (SEC or DTI), import documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading), product test report from an accredited laboratory, product samples/photographs, and the authorization letter from the manufacturer. Ensure all test reports are current and reference the exact product brand, model, and specifications you intend to import.
Important: Incomplete documentation is the most common reason for application delays. Double-check that all documents are properly signed, notarized (where required), and that copies are certified true copies. The product test report must come from a laboratory accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 and recognized by BPS.
Submit Application to DTI-BPS
Submit your complete application package to the BPS Product Certification Division at the DTI-BPS office in Makati City, or through the BPS online portal if available. The BPS receiving staff will review your submission for completeness. If any documents are missing, your application will be returned with a checklist of deficiencies. If complete, your application will be officially received and assigned a reference number for tracking purposes.
BPS Office Address: Bureau of Philippine Standards, 3rd Floor, Trade and Industry Building, 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City. Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (no noon break).
Pay the Application and Processing Fees
Upon acceptance of your application, the BPS cashier will issue an Order of Payment detailing the applicable fees, which include the application fee, testing fee (if BPS conducts the testing), ICC sticker fee (for ICC Sticker applications), and surveillance fee. Payment can be made in cash, check, or through authorized government payment channels. Keep all official receipts as proof of payment, as these will be required when claiming your ICC certificate.
Product Testing and Evaluation
If the submitted test report is from an accredited laboratory and meets BPS requirements, the BPS technical team will review and evaluate the test results against the applicable Philippine National Standard. In some cases, BPS may require additional testing at their own laboratory or at a BPS-recognized local testing facility. Product samples may need to be submitted for this purpose. The testing phase typically takes 5 to 15 working days depending on the product type and testing complexity.
Note: For electrical and electronic products, testing usually covers safety requirements (electrical insulation, grounding, temperature rise, leakage current) and performance parameters as prescribed by the PNS. The product must pass all required tests to proceed.
BPS Technical Review and Approval
After testing is completed and all test results are satisfactory, the BPS technical evaluation committee conducts a final review of the complete application, test reports, and supporting documents. The committee verifies that the product meets all applicable PNS requirements and that the documentation is in order. If everything is satisfactory, the committee recommends approval and the BPS Director endorses the issuance of the ICC.
If the product fails: BPS will issue a notice of non-compliance detailing the specific test parameters that were not met. The applicant may be given an opportunity to submit corrective actions, re-test the product, or withdraw the application. A failed test does not result in a refund of testing fees already paid.
Issuance of the ICC Certificate
Once approved, the BPS will issue the Import Commodity Clearance certificate. For ICC Sticker applications, the certificate specifies the approved brand, model, product specifications, and the validity period. For ICC per Shipment, the certificate identifies the specific consignment covered. The importer (or authorized representative) can claim the certificate at the BPS office by presenting the official receipts and a valid ID.
Affix ICC Sticker / Release Shipment from Customs
For ICC Sticker holders, BPS will provide the official ICC stickers, which must be affixed on each unit of the imported product before sale or distribution. The sticker contains a unique serial number, the BPS logo, and the ICC certificate number. For ICC per Shipment holders, present the ICC certificate to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to facilitate the release of the specific consignment from customs. The product can then be distributed and sold in the Philippine market.
Reminder: Products released under an ICC are subject to post-market surveillance by BPS. BPS may conduct random market checks, factory audits, or sample testing at any time to ensure continued compliance. Non-compliance discovered during surveillance may result in suspension or cancellation of the ICC.
ICC Fees Schedule
The following fees are applicable to ICC applications. Actual amounts may vary depending on the product type, testing requirements, and the number of stickers needed. Always confirm the exact fees with BPS before submitting your application.
| Fee Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | P1,000 - P3,000 | Non-refundable application processing fee. Varies by product category. ICC Sticker applications generally have a higher application fee than ICC per Shipment. |
| Testing Fee | P3,000 - P30,000+ | Varies significantly depending on the product type, number of tests required, and the testing laboratory. Electrical and electronic products typically have higher testing fees. If the applicant provides an acceptable test report from an accredited lab, the BPS testing fee may be waived or reduced. |
| ICC Sticker Fee | P1.50 - P5.00 per sticker | Only applicable for ICC Sticker applications. The cost per sticker depends on the sticker type and size. A minimum order quantity may apply. Stickers must be purchased from BPS and are serialized for tracking. |
| Surveillance Fee | P2,000 - P5,000 per year | Annual fee for ICC Sticker holders to cover the cost of BPS post-market surveillance activities, including random market sampling and testing. Payable annually during the validity period of the ICC Sticker certificate. |
| Renewal Fee | P1,000 - P2,000 | Applicable when renewing an ICC Sticker certificate before its expiration. The renewal process requires updated test reports and documents. Renewal should be filed at least 30 days before the certificate expires. |
Note: All fees are subject to change. The amounts above are based on the latest published BPS fee schedule. Contact BPS directly at (02) 8751-3120 or visit bps.dti.gov.ph for the most current fee information.
Complete Example: XYZ Trading Imports LED Bulbs and Applies for ICC
XYZ Trading Corporation is a Philippine-based importer and distributor of lighting products. The company plans to import a new line of 10W LED bulbs from a factory in Guangdong, China under the brand name "BrightMax." Since LED bulbs are covered under mandatory PNS (PNS IEC 62560), XYZ Trading must obtain an ICC Sticker before importing and selling the product in the Philippines. Here is how they completed the process:
Product Testing at Accredited Laboratory
Before filing the ICC application, XYZ Trading arranged for the BrightMax 10W LED bulbs to be tested at an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratory in China. The laboratory tested the bulbs against PNS IEC 62560 (Self-Ballasted LED Lamps for General Lighting Services) covering safety parameters such as electrical insulation, leakage current, temperature rise, endurance, and luminous flux. The testing took approximately 10 working days and cost USD 2,500 (approximately P140,000). The laboratory issued a comprehensive test report showing that all parameters met the standard requirements.
Gathered Documents and Prepared Application
XYZ Trading prepared all required documents: the BPS ICC Sticker application form (BPS Form No. 301), their SEC Registration certificate, Articles of Incorporation, Mayor's Permit, product test report from the accredited lab, high-resolution photos of the LED bulb (including the rating plate showing brand, model, wattage, voltage, and other specifications), an authorization letter from the Chinese manufacturer on company letterhead, and the manufacturer's ISO 9001 certificate. They also obtained product samples (5 units) for BPS evaluation.
Submitted Application to BPS and Paid Fees
XYZ Trading's compliance officer visited the BPS office in Makati City and submitted the complete application package. The receiving officer reviewed the documents, confirmed completeness, and assigned a reference number. XYZ Trading paid the following fees: Application Fee (P2,500), Testing Review Fee (P5,000, since they already had an accredited lab report), and the initial ICC Sticker fee for 5,000 stickers (P7,500 at P1.50 per sticker). Total fees paid: P15,000.
BPS Technical Evaluation and Review
The BPS technical team reviewed the submitted test report, verified the accreditation status of the testing laboratory, and examined the product samples. They confirmed that the BrightMax 10W LED bulb met all requirements of PNS IEC 62560. The BPS also verified the product labeling and markings to ensure compliance with Philippine labeling requirements (including wattage, voltage, lumen output, and safety warnings in English and/or Filipino). The technical evaluation took approximately 10 working days.
ICC Sticker Certificate Issued
BPS approved the application and issued the ICC Sticker certificate for the BrightMax 10W LED Bulb, valid for 3 years. XYZ Trading received the ICC certificate and 5,000 serialized ICC stickers from BPS. Each sticker contains a unique serial number, the BPS logo, and the ICC certificate reference number. The certificate specifies the approved product (BrightMax 10W LED Bulb), the applicable PNS (PNS IEC 62560), the validity period, and the authorized importer (XYZ Trading Corporation).
Importation and Distribution
With the ICC Sticker certificate in hand, XYZ Trading proceeded to import their first shipment of 5,000 units of BrightMax 10W LED Bulbs. Upon arrival at the port, they presented the ICC certificate to the Bureau of Customs for smooth release of the shipment. Before distributing the bulbs to retailers, XYZ Trading affixed the official ICC stickers on each unit's packaging. The products are now legally ready for sale in the Philippine market.
Cost Summary for XYZ Trading's ICC Application
Total timeline from testing to ICC issuance: approximately 7-8 weeks. The bulk of the cost is the overseas product testing. BPS fees are relatively modest. Subsequent years will only require the surveillance fee and additional sticker purchases as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ICC and PS Mark?
The ICC (Import Commodity Clearance) is for imported products, while the PS Mark (Philippine Standard Mark) is for locally manufactured products. Both certifications are issued by the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) and both verify compliance with Philippine National Standards (PNS). The key difference is the source of the product: if you are importing a regulated product from abroad, you need an ICC. If you are manufacturing a regulated product in the Philippines, you need a PS License/Mark. The testing and evaluation process is similar for both, but the PS Mark also involves factory audits of the local manufacturing facility, which is not applicable for ICC.
What happens if my product fails the BPS testing?
If your product fails to meet the requirements of the applicable Philippine National Standard during testing, the BPS will issue a notice of non-compliance specifying the test parameters that were not met. You have several options: (1) Work with your manufacturer to address the non-compliant aspects, have the product re-manufactured or modified, and submit new samples for re-testing; (2) Submit a corrective action plan to BPS and apply for re-evaluation; or (3) Withdraw the application entirely. Note that testing fees already paid are non-refundable even if the product fails. Re-testing will incur additional testing fees. The product cannot be imported or sold in the Philippines without an approved ICC.
How long is the ICC valid?
The validity depends on the type of ICC. An ICC Sticker certificate is typically valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the product category and the results of surveillance activities. Most ICC Sticker certificates are issued with a 3-year validity for importers with good compliance history. An ICC per Shipment is valid only for the specific shipment or consignment covered by the application -- once that shipment is cleared from customs, the ICC per Shipment expires. For ICC Sticker holders, renewal must be applied for at least 30 days before the certificate expires to ensure continuous compliance.
What is the penalty for importing without an ICC?
Importing regulated products without a valid ICC is a violation of the Philippine Standards Law (RA 4109) and related DTI regulations. Penalties may include: (1) Seizure and confiscation of the imported products by the Bureau of Customs; (2) Fines ranging from P10,000 to P100,000 or more, depending on the nature and scale of the violation; (3) Criminal prosecution with possible imprisonment; (4) Ban on future importation of regulated products. The Bureau of Customs will not release shipments of regulated products without a valid ICC, meaning the products will be held at the port and subject to storage charges until compliance is demonstrated or the goods are abandoned/confiscated.
Can an ICC be transferred to another importer?
No. An ICC certificate is non-transferable. It is issued to a specific importer (the applicant) for a specific product brand and model. If another company wants to import the same product, they must file their own separate ICC application with BPS, even if the product is the same brand and model. Each importer must demonstrate their own authorization from the manufacturer and submit their own set of documents and test reports. Attempting to use another company's ICC certificate is a violation and may result in the cancellation of the ICC and penalties for both parties.
How do I check if my product needs an ICC?
There are several ways to check: (1) Visit the BPS website at bps.dti.gov.ph and look for the list of products under mandatory certification (ICC and PS Mark product list); (2) Call the BPS Product Certification Division at (02) 8751-3120 and provide the product description and HS Code for a definitive answer; (3) Email BPS at bps@dti.gov.ph with your product details; (4) Consult your customs broker, who should be familiar with which HS Codes require ICC clearance before customs release. If in doubt, it is always better to inquire with BPS before importing, as importing regulated products without an ICC can result in the shipment being held at customs.
Can I apply for ICC online?
The BPS has been progressively digitizing its processes. Some parts of the ICC application process can be initiated online through the BPS portal, including form downloads, initial submissions, and status tracking. However, as of the latest update, certain steps such as submission of original documents, product samples, and payment may still require an in-person visit to the BPS office. Contact BPS at (02) 8751-3120 or check bps.dti.gov.ph for the latest information on online application availability and the specific steps that can be completed remotely.
Important Reminders
- Always verify ICC requirements before importing: Check with BPS whether your product requires an ICC before placing your import order. Importing regulated products without an ICC will result in customs holding your shipment, incurring storage fees, and potential penalties.
- Use only accredited testing laboratories: Product test reports must be from laboratories accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 and recognized by BPS. Test reports from non-accredited laboratories will not be accepted and will delay your application. Check with BPS for the list of recognized testing laboratories.
- Submit complete documents to avoid delays: Incomplete applications are the most common cause of processing delays. Prepare all documents before visiting BPS and double-check against the requirements checklist. Missing even one document can add weeks to the processing time.
- ICC Stickers must be affixed before sale: If you hold an ICC Sticker certificate, every unit of the imported product must have the official ICC sticker affixed before it is sold, distributed, or offered to consumers. Selling products without the sticker is a violation even if you have a valid ICC certificate.
- Renew your ICC Sticker before it expires: File for renewal at least 30 days before the expiration date. Operating with an expired ICC certificate means your imported products cannot be legally cleared from customs or sold in the market. Lapsed certificates require a new application rather than a simple renewal.
- Be prepared for post-market surveillance: BPS conducts regular market surveillance to ensure products continue to meet standards after certification. Keep your records organized and maintain product quality to avoid suspension or cancellation of your ICC during surveillance activities.
- Fees are non-refundable: Application fees and testing fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the application. Even if the product fails testing or the application is withdrawn, fees already paid will not be returned.
- Coordinate with your customs broker: Your customs broker should be aware of your ICC status and have copies of the ICC certificate for customs clearance purposes. Poor coordination between the importer and customs broker is a common cause of shipment delays at the port.
Need Help?
Contact DTI-BPS
- Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS): 3rd Floor, Trade and Industry Building, 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City
- Phone: (02) 8751-3120
- DTI Hotline: 1-DTI (1-384)
- Email: bps@dti.gov.ph
- Website: bps.dti.gov.ph
- DTI Main Website: www.dti.gov.ph
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (no noon break)
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the DTI you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest DTI first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.