Why Your Barrel Packing List Matters for Ghana Customs
A clear, detailed packing list can mean the difference between a 3-day customs clearance and a 3-week inspection. Ghana Customs uses your packing list to assess duties, verify contents and determine whether your shipment qualifies as personal effects.
Free form: download the Guldstreet Packing List, a one-page fillable packing list for each barrel or box with every field below already laid out. Get the fillable PDF.
What Your Packing List Must Include
For each category of item:
- Item description: Be specific. "10 pairs of women's used clothing" beats "clothing."
- Quantity: Exact count per item type
- Condition: Used or new
- Estimated value: Realistic second-hand market value in USD
Sample Packing List
- Women's used clothing, 15 items, Used, $45
- Men's used clothing, 8 items, Used, $25
- Children's clothing and shoes, 12 items, Used, $30
- Bed sheets and towels, 4 sets, Used, $20
- Assorted dry food (rice 5kg, pasta 2kg, canned tomatoes 4 tins), New, $25
- Used kitchen pots and utensils, 6 items, Used, $20
- Toiletries and soap (sealed), $15
- Total declared value: $180
Common Packing List Mistakes
- "Miscellaneous goods" or "assorted items", customs will inspect everything and make their own assessment
- Under-declaring value dramatically, customs officers know market prices
- Omitting items, unlisted items look like attempted smuggling during inspection
What the List Must Include
Shipper's full name and address, recipient's full name and address in Ghana, date of packing, barrel number if shipping multiple.
Guldstreet Provides a Packing List Template
When you book a pickup with Guldstreet, we provide a template optimised for Ghana Customs. Call us at +1 (551) 800-2125 to get started.
Related guide: Read our complete Ghana Customs Guide for everything you need to know about Ghana customs duties and import rules.