Import Household Goods to Mongolia
Planning a move to Mongolia?
Moving to Mongolia in 2026: Estimated Shipping Times, Costs & Key Info
Applies to people shipping their own used household and personal goods to Mongolia as unaccompanied personal effects for personal use.
You must provide a passenger customs declaration, a detailed inventory, your transport document, and matching passport ID. If goods ship separately, prepare two copies of the declaration.
All personal effects may be inspected on arrival. Items that could carry soil or organic material, such as outdoor gear or wooden goods, should be cleaned well to reduce inspection delays.
Import taxes depend on how customs values and classifies your goods. Personal use exemptions may apply within approved limits, but VAT is generally charged on imports unless exempt.
Minimum shipment size is a small studio apartment. No maximum size limit.
There are a few important things to know before you pack. Mongolia has clear customs rules for personal effects, and your visa or residence status may affect clearance. Planning early and working with a reliable partner makes the move smoother.
At Swift Cargo, we make international moving simple, secure, and stress free. This page walks you through what to expect when shipping your belongings to Mongolia. You will find clear guidance on customs clearance, seasonal congestion on key routes, and the minimum shipment size. We also explain our door to door service, insurance options, and practical packing tips.
Whether you are relocating for work, family, or study, Swift Cargo and our local partners handle your move to Mongolia with care and efficiency. We take care of the logistics and paperwork so you can focus on settling in with confidence.
Our process
Fill out our standard application on our platform.
Request a Quote
Tell us where you're moving and give an idea of what you wish to move. Most expats finish in under ten minutes.
Get Connected
Your Move Manager will tailor your route, advise on inventory, confirm appropriate permits, and find the right strategy for your family.
Finalise your Plan
You can relax. We will manage the packing and shipping to deliver your life safely to your new home.
Peak months
Planning shipments around Mongolia’s peak periods can reduce delays and costs. Demand rises when border routes and rail links are busiest. Here is a simple guide:
- Late summer to early autumn
Volumes often rise on China to Mongolia corridors as businesses restock and relocation traffic increases. Rail and border processing can be slower, so earlier booking helps. - Pre holiday surge
Import demand into Mongolia can spike ahead of major trading and retail cycles. Congestion is most noticeable on the Tianjin to Zamiin Uud rail route and at border crossings. - Winter lull
This is usually a quieter window for personal effects and general cargo. Weather and inland transport conditions may still affect schedules, so keep flexibility in your plan.
Customs
Mongolia applies clear customs procedures for personal effects and household goods. If you are shipping used items for your own use, you still need to comply with all declaration, documentation, and inspection steps.
Documents you need for personal goods
To clear your items through Mongolian Customs, you will usually need:
- Air Waybill, Bill of Lading, or rail consignment
- Completed Passenger Customs Declaration for personal effects
- Passport ID (name must match the transport document)
- Detailed inventory list, in English or Mongolian
- Each package labelled with a list of contents
- Copy of your visa or residence status, if applicable
- Supporting residence or entry document , if requested by customs
- Full name and residential address in Mongolia
Inspections and delays
Household and personal goods entering Mongolia may be inspected by the Customs General Administration of Mongolia and border authorities.
- Inspection time varies by route, season, and whether items are referred for checks.
- To reduce the risk of delays, clean items thoroughly before packing, especially anything that may have touched soil, plants, or outdoor materials.
For overland travellers
If you are entering Mongolia by air or land, you may need to complete a passenger customs declaration on arrival. This also supports clearance of separately shipped personal effects.
Restricted goods
Drug Contraband
Explosives
Biohazard
Chemicals
Corrosives
Counterfeit
Ivory
Flammables
Firearms
Drugs
Fake Notes
Poison
Hazardous
Minimum shipment size for Mongolia
When shipping to Mongolia with Swift Cargo, we use minimum volume requirements to ensure efficient handling, consolidation, and delivery through inland routes.
- Minimum shipment: Studio Apartment
This is the smallest shipment size accepted for freight or relocation services to Mongolia.
- No maximum size limit
Swift Cargo can manage shipments of any size, from small personal moves to full household relocations.
These minimums apply to shipments entering Mongolia.
Download the customs forms
- Passenger Customs Declaration for personal effects: On the spot Reference Document
- Power of attorney when importing to Mongolia (template): US Embassy in Mongolia
Contact Mongolian Customs
Taxes and duties
Understanding Mongolia’s import tax rules helps you avoid surprises during customs clearance. Here is what you need to know:
General tax rules
- Import duties depend on HS code and valuation and are assessed during customs clearance.
- In Mongolia, imports are generally subject to value added tax at the standard rate unless an exemption applies. Personal effects may qualify for relief within approved limits.
Tax exemptions
- Many used personal goods can be exempt within set limits, but some items like alcohol or tobacco may be treated differently.
- These exemptions apply to unaccompanied personal effects as long as they meet Customs General Administration of Mongolia conditions.
Duty free status for official use
Some individuals or organisations may import goods without paying duties, provided items are for official use and approved by Mongolian Customs. This can include:
- Diplomatic missions
- Government posts
- Humanitarian staff on assignment
To qualify, you must:
1. Contact Mongolian Customs
2. Request any required identification
3. Provide documents to claim exemption
This status may apply to embassy staff, foreign aid workers, or volunteers under approved missions.
Cargo insurance
Shipping goods across borders always comes with some risk. That is why cargo insurance is recommended when sending valuable items to Mongolia, especially on routes involving transshipment and inland transport.
Why you need insurance
Moving cargo by air or overland exposes your shipment to potential damage. Insurance can protect you against:
- Rough weather in transit
- Improper handling
- Inspection treatments
- Accidental loss or damage
What is covered
Coverage depends on your insurance provider. Most policies include:
- Protection during transport
- Coverage for specific risks, such as fire, theft, or moisture
- Limitations and exclusions based on declared value
Always review terms with your broker before finalising.
How to get insured
You can arrange cargo insurance through:
- A general insurance company
- A specialist broker
- Your bank
- Swift Cargo’s own insurance program.
Note: Our insurance is charged based on your declared shipment value.
Visa requirements for moving to Mongolia
If you are planning to relocate to Mongolia, you will need a valid visa or residence status for your purpose of stay. Visa categories can be confusing, and eligibility depends on your passport and plans. The safest step is to check the current official requirements and confirm which option fits your situation before you move.
Main visa categories
Most Mongolian visas fall into one of these categories:
Visitor visas
For short stays, tourism, or business visits
Work and skilled visas
For temporary or long term jobs
Student and training visas
For education or professional development
Family and partner visas
For joining relatives or spouses in Mongolia
Note: If you are moving to Mongolia for a long stay, a work or family visa is usually the most appropriate.
For detailed and up to date information, visit the official Mongolian immigration website.
Shipping hubs in Mongolia
Mongolia is landlocked, so international cargo usually arrives by air or crosses land borders by rail or road. Swift Cargo supports both air freight and overland routes to the main hubs below.
Shipping hubs in Mongolia
Hubs and shipping methods
- Ulaanbaatar (Chinggis Khaan Airport) – Air freight available
- Zamiin-Uud – Rail and road freight available
- Altanbulag – Road and rail freight available
- Gashuunsukhait (South Gobi) – Road freight available
- Erenhot-Zamiin-Uud corridor – Rail transshipment route
- Tianjin to Mongolia rail route – Indirect sea connection via China
- Western border crossings – Overland freight available
- Regional inland depots – Final mile delivery
Transit time per destination
| From | To | Est. transit time |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, United States | Bangkok, Thailand | 18-21 days |
| New York City, United States | Bangkok, Thailand | 24-26 days |
| Marseille, France | Bangkok, Thailand | 24-26 days |
| Sydney, Australia | Phuket, Thailand | 23-25 days |
| Melbourne, Australia | Bangkok, Thailand | 21-23 days |
| Cape Town, South Africa | Phuket, Thailand | 28-30 days |
| Shanghai, Mongolia | Bangkok, Thailand | 18-21 days |
| Incheon (Seoul), South Korea | Bangkok, Thailand | 21-24 days |
Door to door relocation
Swift Cargo offers a full door to door moving service to Mongolia. From packing your goods to delivering and unpacking them in your new home, we manage each step of the relocation process.
1. Packing and loading.
We offer professional packing services to keep items safe during international and inland transport to Mongolia. Common packing materials include:
- Packing boxes
Available in different sizes and built to protect standard household items during air, rail, or road shipping. - Bubble wrap
Used for fragile items such as glassware, ceramics, and electronics to reduce the risk of damage in transit. - Wooden crates
Ideal for large or sensitive items. They provide strong protection for multi leg routes and careful handling during border or rail transfers.
Full Packing Service: Do not want to pack yourself? No problem. Our team can pack all types of goods, including furniture and oversized items. Fill out the contact form and a consultant will help organise your packing needs.
2. Pickup
Our agents collect your packed goods from your home or warehouse. Movements are tracked and documented so your shipment stays secure throughout international and inland legs.
3. Customs clearance
We manage the customs process for Mongolia. See the Customs section above for required documents, declarations, and inspection details.
4. Delivery and unloading
Once your shipment arrives in Mongolia and clears customs, we deliver it directly to your home. Our team unloads all boxes at your doorstep.
5. Unpacking and setup
We also offer unpacking services. Our team places your goods where you want them, so you can settle in without stress.
Support team
Swift Cargo’s Support Team is built around one simple belief: shipping should never feel stressful, confusing, or impersonal. That’s why we take care of every client one by one, with real attention, real follow-ups, and real specialists who stay involved from start to finish.
When you work with Swift Cargo, you’re not passed around between random departments or forced to repeat yourself over and over: you’re supported by a dedicated logistics specialist who understands your shipment, your priorities, and your expectations. Our role is to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and safe throughout the entire shipping process.
From pickup coordination to tracking updates, documentation, customs guidance, and delivery confirmation, our team stays reachable and proactive, ensuring you always know what’s happening and what comes next. Whether you need fast answers, reassurance, or expert advice, we’re here with the same specialist ready to help you, every step of the way.
Talk to an agent now
Import your vehicle
Bringing a car into Mongolia is possible, but it requires advance approval and compliance with local customs, tax, and safety rules.
What you need
What you need
- Vehicle import approval – Apply before the car arrives
- Key documents – Passport, registration papers, transport document, sales invoice, and customs declaration
- Compliance – Your car must meet Mongolian safety and emissions requirements
Costs to expect
- Customs duty based on HS code
- Value added tax on imports
- Any excise or special taxes that apply to certain vehicles
Extra fees may apply for inspection, cleaning, or required modifications.
We Can Help - Swift Cargo handles the process from start to finish, including paperwork, transport, and customs clearance.
Import your pets
Mongolia controls pet entry through customs and veterinary rules. Only pets that meet health, vaccination, and import conditions are allowed. Requirements can change and may depend on your origin country, so confirm details before travel.
Key requirements
- Valid Import Permit
Apply through the relevant Mongolian customs or veterinary permit pathway before travel. - Microchip & Vaccinations
Your pet must be microchipped and up to date on rabies and core vaccines. - Rabies Blood Test
A rabies titer test may be required, done in an approved lab. - Quarantine
Quarantine rules may apply on arrival depending on species and origin. Confirm whether a government facility stay is required before you ship.
Eligibility by origin country
Banned dog breeds in Mongolia
Some breeds may be restricted or banned. Confirm before booking:
- Check official restricted breed list
- Breed restrictions can change
- Confirm with authorities
- Before travel
- For your origin country
We Can Help - From paperwork and vet checks to booking flights and any required quarantine. We make sure your pet arrives safely and legally.
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What our customers say, Mongolia moves
About Mongolia
Shipping activity in Mongolia
Mongolia is a major inland logistics corridor between Russia and China. Most international cargo moves by rail or road through border crossings such as Zamiin-Uud, with air cargo centered on Ulaanbaatar.
National freight activity:
High volume
cargo shipments handled regularly
Steady flow
containers processed across key crossings
Growing share
air freight managed each month
Mongolia cost of living
Relocating to Mongolia can feel like a reset in how you budget day to day. Ulaanbaatar is the main cost center, with higher rents and more competition for well located housing than smaller cities or rural areas. If you are coming from a large global city, some costs may feel lower, but imported goods and modern apartments can be priced similarly to other capitals. Heating and winter related expenses are a meaningful part of household planning. Housing is usually the biggest adjustment, so compare neighborhoods carefully and allow time to find a good fit.
Utilities and internet costs vary. In winter, heating can increase monthly bills, especially in older buildings. Groceries are generally affordable for local staples, while imported food and household products cost more and are less predictable in price. Eating out ranges from budget cafes to higher priced international restaurants in central Ulaanbaatar. If you cook mostly at home and buy local produce, daily costs are easier to manage. If you rely on imported items, plan for higher spending and occasional stock gaps.
Transportation costs depend on where you live and work. Public buses are common in Ulaanbaatar, while taxis and private cars are widely used. Traffic and winter conditions can affect commute time, so location matters.
The upside is that many expats in Mongolia work in sectors with competitive packages. How far your income goes depends on your role, your benefits, and whether your housing or transport is supported by your employer.
Overall, moving to Mongolia can be very manageable with a clear budget. Housing and winter utilities are the biggest variables, while local food and services are often reasonable. Prepare for one time relocation costs such as deposits, household setup, and shipping related fees. Compare neighborhoods in Ulaanbaatar for commute time, heating quality, and access to services. With good preparation, Mongolia offers a comfortable lifestyle, strong community ties, and a unique mix of urban and wide open living.
Security in Mongolia
Security in Mongolia
Mongolia is generally considered a safe destination for expatriates. Like anywhere, safety levels vary by area, and busy urban zones can have more petty theft than residential neighborhoods.
Most expats report day to day life in Mongolia as safe and straightforward. The most common issues are minor, such as pickpocketing or small scams in crowded places. Violent crime against foreigners is uncommon, but it is sensible to stay aware at night and avoid carrying valuables openly.
It is still important to stay alert, especially in Ulaanbaatar where petty theft is more likely. Choose a secure apartment or neighborhood, lock your home and vehicle, and use basic safety habits when commuting. With preparation and awareness, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable life in Mongolia.
Infrastructure and public services in Mongolia
Mongolia offers a mix of public and private services, with the strongest concentration in Ulaanbaatar. Education includes public schools, international schools, and private options. Quality and language of instruction vary, so families often compare curricula, commute times, and class sizes before choosing a school.
Healthcare in Mongolia includes public hospitals and a growing number of private clinics. Urban areas offer broader services and more specialist care, while smaller towns may have more limited options. Many expats use private providers for routine care and rely on public hospitals for emergencies.
Public services are most accessible in Ulaanbaatar and provincial centers. Rural and remote regions can require longer travel to reach hospitals, government offices, or specialized services. Planning for distance and seasonal weather is part of living outside the capital.
For many newcomers, Mongolia feels straightforward once you choose where to live. The capital offers the most complete set of schools, clinics, and public services, while regional areas provide a quieter lifestyle with fewer specialized options. If you need specific education programs or medical specialists, living near central Ulaanbaatar can make daily access easier.
Frequently asked questions
Shipping times to Mongolia depend on the origin country and the route you choose.
- Air freight: Usually the fastest option and can be arranged door to door, including customs clearance and local delivery.
- Overland or indirect sea routes: Cargo often moves via China and then by rail or road into Mongolia, so timing varies with border capacity and inspections.
Peak periods on the Tianjin to Zamiin-Uud corridor and major holidays can slow processing. We will provide a clear timeline based on your shipment details.
Checklist for your Mongolia relocation
Checklist for your Mongolia relocation
Fill out the form with details about your move.
Receive custom quotes within 48 hours.
Choose the option that suits you best, and let our agents guide you through the process.
Request the required documentation to prepare for your arrival in Mongolia.
Track your shipment with our agents and receive updates at every step
(If necessary) Provide additional details to speed up customs clearance.
Move into your new home while we take care of delivering your goods.
