Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Start Your Global Trade

Founded in 1996, MSC Saudi Arabia has been growing hand in hand with our customers and partners, guided by values that put people, relationships and service first. For us, shipping is more than moving cargo; it’s about building long-term trust and collaboration. 

With 30 years of experience, we simplify the complexities of international trade by combining local expertise with MSC’s global network. From our offices in Dammam, Jeddah, and Riyadh, we provide direct access to the Kingdom’s main ports, connecting your business seamlessly to markets across the globe. 

 

Your Cargo, Our Commitment 

MEDLOG trucks carrying MSC containers in depot in Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Saudi Inland Solutions Read more
MSC Saudi offers eBL service on cargo shipments
Saudi eBL Solution Read more
King Abdullah Port
Saudi Customs Clearance Solution Read more

Find the Right Solution for Your Industry

Automotive industry shipping
Saudi Automotive Shipping Read more
MSC Saudi Pharmaceutical shipping
Saudi Pharmaceuticals Shipping Read more
Food and beverages commodity industry shipping
Saudi Food & Beverages Shipping Read more
Mining and minerals industry shipping
Saudi Mining & Minerals Shipping Read more
Petrochemical industry in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Petrochemicals & Chemicals Shipping Read more

From Saudi Ports to Global Markets

At MSC Saudi, our dedicated export team is here to connect your commodities with the world. Through direct and transshipment links to more than 150 countries, we provide seamless access to global trade routes via six major ports across the Kingdom.
From documentation and customs coordination to tailored shipping plans, our experts deliver reliable, efficient solutions designed to keep your exports moving. With MSC Saudi, reaching key international markets becomes is a simple, smooth, and sustainable journey. 
 
  • Local experts with global network

  • intermodal solution with MSC Saudi

    Intermodal Solutions

  • Digital solutions to support your journey with MSC Saudi

    Digital solutions to support cargo journey

  • container availability with MSC Saudi

    Container availability all year

Detention & Demurrage 

What is detention?

Detention is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, for the use of the carrier’s full container inside the marine terminal and container yard.

What is demurrage?

Demurrage is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, inside the terminal for the use of the land.

In case of a demurrage dispute contact:

East & Central: SAU-logistic-ilim.east@msc.com

West: SAU-logistic-ilim.west@msc.com

Solas VGM Information

What is VGM?
Verified Gross Mass or VGM refers to the exact, verified weight of a packed container. For safety reasons, vessel operators can only load a container if its weight has been verified. 

What do I need to include in my VGM instructions?
You must include the following on all VGM instructions: The following items are mandatory and must be on all VGM instructions:

How can I submit my VGM instructions?
VGM instructions should be submitted on myMSC  or Inttra 

Deadlines for submitting your VGM instructions
VGM must be updated along with SI submission.

MSC admin fees and costs 
Any cost or consequences caused by delay, misdeclaration of VGM instructions is payable by the shipper.

For more information, please contact the MSC GUINEA customer service team: 
Email: sau-info@msc.com 

 

Local Shipping and Dangerous Goods

1.CRO Release Conditions
The Container Release Order (CRO) will only be issued after Dangerous Goods (DG) approval is granted in the system. As per the customer's instructions, any misdeclaration will result in a penalty payable by the customer.
2.Special Requirements for Certain PODs
For specific Ports of Discharge (PODs), such as Algerian PODs, additional approvals are required. (LOE) and (MSDS) must be submitted to the POD for approval before CRO release.
3.Manifest Release and Amendments
The manifest will be released only after DG approval is finalized in the local system. Any amendments may impact the approval process and container loading, which will remain subject to DG approval and finalization.
4.Shipping Instructions (SI) Cut-Off
Shipping Instructions must be submitted no later than 10 working days prior to the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) of the nominated vessel.
5.Draft Amendment Deadline
Any amendments to the draft must be made at least 3 working days before the vessel’s ETA to avoid shipment rollover. Shipments are subject to DG approval.
6.Placarding Requirements
Ensure that all containers are properly placarded in accordance with IMDG and ADR regulations to guarantee acceptance at the export terminal.
 

Prohibited Information 

Export regulations in Saudi Arabia prohibit or restrict the export of certain goods. These rules are enforced to protect national resources, maintain economic stability, and ensure compliance with international agreements. Violations may result in customs duties, penalties, or legal action.

Personal effect and any cargo are rejected by the POD

Prohibited Items Include:
Date palm seedlings
Green fodder
Scrap iron
Antique artifacts of historical value
Zamzam water
Agricultural crops grown in open fields (e.g., onions, potatoes, wheat, barley, watermelons, cantaloupes) and their processed products (e.g., potato-based items)
Firewood

Restricted Items (Require Prior Approval or Export Licenses from Government):
Agricultural equipment and machinery
Poultry and eggs
Flour
Sand and rocks
Bottled water
Cement
Iron
Medicines

This information is provided for general guidance only and may be modified or withdrawn by the government at any time without prior notice.

 

Shipping Instructions Cut-off

Shipping Instructions (SI) Cut-Off – DG shipment 
Shipping Instructions must be submitted no later than 10 working days prior to the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) of the nominated vessel   

Shipping Instructions (SI) Cut-Off - Non DG shipment 
Shipping Instructions must be submitted no later than 7 working days prior to the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) of the nominated vessel 

 

Container Collection

 An appointment is required at the MEDLOG DMM depot to collect containers.

Booking Confirmation and CRO Release

Before placing a booking, please ensure that the invoicing company is approved in our system and correctly added during the booking process.
Bookings must be made using a valid rate to avoid cancellation.
 

Your Bridge to Global Reach

Our local import team is here to help you bring cargo from anywhere in the world into Saudi Arabia with ease. Backed by MSC’s strong global network and reliable access through six major ports across the Kingdom, we simplify the complexity of international shipping and keep your business connected. 

From origin to Saudi borders and beyond, our experts coordinate every stage of the process, ensuring full compliance with local regulations, efficient customs clearance, and clear communication throughout. We handle your imports with precision and care, so your cargo arrives smoothly safely and on time.

  • Access to six main ports in Saudi Arabia

    Access to six main ports

  • Local Experts with Global Network with MSC Saudi

    Local Experts with Global Network

  • container availability with MSC Saudi

    Container Availability All Year

  • intermodal solution with MSC Saudi

    Intermodal Solutions

Customs Clearance

Find everything you need to know about MSC Saudi Customs Clearance solution on our dedicated webpage.

Inland Transportation

Please note that deliveries will be in a standard 20ft/40ft container, on a standard trailer and heavy goods vehicle. If you require a delivery with special requirements, please email your usual Customer Service representative or contact us to learn more.

Terms & Conditions

DO Release & Invoicing

Required documents for DO release
Copy of BL
Authorization letter stamped from chamber of commerce from the consignee to the broker.
Consignee import code.
Required for invoicing
Send to the following:
Dammam-East: SAU-imp-east-inv@msc.com
Riyadh-Central: SAU-imp-central-inv@msc.com
Jeddah-West: SAU-imp-cs.west@msc.com
 

Detention & Demurrage

What is detention?
Detention is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, for the use of the carrier’s full container inside the marine terminal and container yard. 
What is demurrage?
Demurrage is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, inside the terminal for the use of the land. In case of a demurrage dispute
East & Central: SAU-logistic-ilim.east@msc.com
West: SAU-logistic-ilim.west@msc.com 

Arrival Notice

Once customer receives arrival notification email, it will contain steps for linking the delivery order:
-After the arrival notification, customer will receive an update email containing invoice.
-Once payment is done, customer should email front desk team on the below emails to link the delivery order:
East & Central: SAU-fd-do.east@msc.com
West: SAU-fd-do.west@msc.com
-After linking the delivery order, the customer will receive Import release order (IRO). 

Prohibited Items

Prohibited items that are not allowed to be imported to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, according to government regulations are in the following link:

Prohibited & Restricted Items

Contact our  team to request a quote, book or find out more about our local services!

 

LOCAL OFFICES INFORMATION

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