Oman Requires Pallets for Imported Goods: What Should Businesses Prepare?

From July 2026, Oman will officially introduce a new requirement for the use of pallets for certain imported goods. This is an important change for businesses exporting to Oman, especially when it comes to packing, preparing shipments, and logistics.

Oman Requires Pallets for Imported Goods

According to an announcement by the Directorate General of Customs of the Royal Oman Police, the pallet requirement is intended to:

• Improve the efficiency of loading, unloading, and handling goods.
• Help make customs clearance smoother.
• Improve the flow of trade at Oman’s entry points.
• Standardize how goods are prepared before import.

The requirement will be introduced in two phases:

July 15, 2026: Applies to goods imported through land border crossings.
September 15, 2026: Applies to goods imported through airports and seaports.

What Types of Pallets Are Accepted?

Businesses can use different types of pallets, depending on the type of goods, including:

• Wooden pallets: Must meet plant quarantine requirements and be marked in accordance with ISPM 15 standards.
• Plastic pallets
• Metal pallets

Not All Goods Must Be Shipped on Pallets

The requirement mainly applies to goods that can reasonably be transported, loaded, unloaded, and handled on pallets.

Some goods may be considered for exemption if using pallets is not practical, such as:

• Bulk cargo
• Heavy equipment and machinery
• Pipes
• Coiled goods
• Liquids
• Stone blocks
• Marble
• Other similar types of goods

However, whether a shipment qualifies for an exemption will depend on the decision of the relevant authorities in Oman. Businesses should check directly with customs authorities or their customs broker before shipping.

What Happens If Goods Do Not Meet the Requirement?

Shipments that do not meet the pallet requirement may be rejected by the authorities and required to be returned.

In such cases, businesses may face additional costs, including:

• Return freight charges
• Storage fees
• Demurrage charges
• Detention charges
• Other fines or penalties imposed by the authorities

Therefore, meeting the pallet requirement is not only a customs matter. It can also directly affect logistics costs and delivery schedules.

Packaging Manufacturers Should Pay Attention to Pallet Requirements

Oman’s new regulation shows that logistics and packaging requirements in international markets are becoming increasingly strict. For packaging manufacturers, keeping up with these changes is important so they can provide suitable packaging solutions and advice to their customers.

Depending on the type of packaging, packing method, and transportation method, manufacturers should consider palletizing options, weight limits, dimensions, and loading arrangements from the production stage. Working closely with customers and logistics providers can help businesses choose suitable packaging specifications for each market and reduce potential problems during export, customs clearance, and delivery.

Note: The information above is provided for general information purposes only and does not replace legal advice or official guidance from the relevant authorities in Oman. Businesses should confirm the specific requirements for each shipment with Oman Customs or a local customs broker before shipping.

With extensive experience in packaging manufacturing, PMP is ready to support businesses in choosing packaging solutions that meet the requirements of different markets. Contact PMP today for advice on packaging solutions that meet your production and export needs.