Updated 25 January 2026
Gifting through what is known as balikbayan boxes is a common practice among the Filipino community abroad including foreign domestic workers. The Tagalog word balikbayan literally means ‘return to home’. The name says it all: Balikbayan boxes have become one of the favorite means for many Filipinos overseas to contribute and maintain their bond with their family members (including extended family) who remained back home – particularly on special occasions like Christmas.
If you are an employer you can offer your domestic helper gifts like clothing or sweets that she will put into the box and send to her home country.
What Is a Balikbayan Box?
A Balikbayan Box is a parcel overseas Filipinos send home containing personal and household items for family use. The tradition grew from the Filipino custom of pasalubong, symbolizing affection and remembrance for family and friends.
Balikbayan boxes are typically shipped through freight forwarders or consolidators in Hong Kong who organize cargo shipping, customs filing, and delivery to recipients in the Philippines.
Who Is Eligible for Duty-Free Balikbayan Boxes?
Under the Bureau of Customs (BOC) duty-free rules, the following categories of senders can avail of tax and duty exemption:
- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
- Filipino citizens temporarily living abroad
- Non-Resident Filipinos with permanent residency overseas
This tax and duty-free privilege applies when conditions set by the BOC under Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) are met
Duty-Free Conditions and Limits
To qualify for tax and duty exemption when sending a Balikbayan Box from Hong Kong:
- The box must contain only personal and household effects meant for family use — not for sale.
- The total declared value must not exceed ₱150,000 per calendar year.
- You may use this privilege up to three times per calendar year.
If these conditions aren’t met, the box may be subject to duties and taxes before release.
Required Documents to Clear Customs
Before your box leaves Hong Kong, make sure your consolidator collects and transmits the required paperwork for BOC processing:
- Balikbayan Box Information Sheet — lists what’s inside and the value of each item.
- Photocopy of sender’s passport biographical page — verifies identity and overseas status.
- Invoice or receipt (if available) — especially for higher-value items.
These documents are sent by the Hong Kong consolidator to the Philippine freight forwarder and then to the BOC for review and clearance.
What You Can and Can’t Pack
To avoid customs issues and delays, pack only personal and household items. Common accepted contents include:
- Clothing and shoes
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Dry, non-perishable canned goods and snacks
- Toys and gifts for family
- Small household items
Items you should not include:
❌ Cash, money orders, or financial instruments
❌ Firearms, ammunition, explosives
❌ Illegal drugs or substances
❌ Pornographic materials, gambling cards
❌ Pirated media (DVDs/CDs)
❌ Plant seeds or unprocessed food without permit
❌ Commercial goods or items in business quantities
For any regulated goods (e.g., food that needs clearance, medicines), check requirements from the appropriate Philippine agency (FDA, BPI, BFAR) before packing to avoid confiscation.
How the Shipping and Customs Process Works
Here’s a simplified look at the process from Hong Kong to your family’s door:
- Packing and Declaration: Accurately pack items and complete the information sheet with honest values.
- Document Submission: Give the information sheet, passport copy, and any receipts to your consolidator.
- Shipping: The consolidator ships the box by sea or air to the Philippines.
- Customs Processing: The freight forwarder in the Philippines submits documents to the BOC for examination.
- Release and Delivery: Once cleared, the box is delivered to your recipient’s home.
2025 Updates and Policy Enhancements
In June 2025, the Philippine government signed a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) to strengthen rules for Balikbayan Box handling, prevent mishandling by unscrupulous players, and improve delivery reliability. This cooperation involves the BOC, Department of Finance (DOF), DTI, DMW, OWWA, and the Philippine Ports Authority.
The JAO aims to streamline national policy, clarify responsibilities, and protect OFWs’ shipments through better oversight of freight forwarders and deconsolidators.
Tips for a Smooth Balikbayan Box Shipment
✔ Use DTI-accredited freight forwarders and consolidators — this reduces risk of delays or problematic cargo partners.
✔ Accurately declare item values — honest listings help customs clear items faster.
✔ Keep tracking references and documentation until the box is delivered.
✔ Share the expected delivery window with your family so they’re prepared to receive it.
You can also try the BOC Balikbayan Box Tracking System to monitor shipment status online
Final Tips to Getting things done
Plan things ahead:
- List in advance what’s going to be in the box.
- Pick the right size of the box and plan the sending. Allow 1 to 2 weeks for your box to arrive after being shipped. If you are planning on shipping presents to reach on time for Christmas, allow more time as shipping time is extended during the Christmas season.
- Ensure that all fragile objects are carefully packed and that containers holding liquids are carefully duct-tape sealed. Pay extra attention when sealing the box – focus on the opening and the edges to ensure that the items inside are safe.
- Duct tape is your ally!