Importing Headlight Lens Covers and LED Bulbs into Egypt: ACID, Nafeza and HS 8512.20
Short answer: headlight lens covers and LED bulbs enter Egypt under HS code 8512.20. A commercial importer needs an importer registration and an ACID number obtained in advance on the Nafeza platform before the goods are loaded, then pays customs duty per the current tariff plus 14% VAT at clearance. The faster alternative for shops and workshops is to buy from the Lalogo stock in New Cairo at landed, already-cleared prices.
1. Importer registration
Importing for resale requires registration in the importers’ register at the General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOEIC), plus a valid commercial register and tax card. A workshop importing for its own customers is treated the same way at commercial quantities.
2. ACID number through Nafeza
- Since October 2021 the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system is mandatory for sea freight, and it was later extended to air freight.
- The importer registers the shipment and exporter details on Nafeza and receives an ACID number that must appear on the invoice, bill of lading and packing list before loading at the port of origin.
- The exporter (Lalogo) sends the documents electronically through the CargoX platform with a digital signature.
3. HS code and duties
- Headlight lenses and vehicle bulbs are usually classified under 8512.20 (lighting or visual signalling equipment for motor vehicles). Confirm with your broker, as some offices classify a bare lens under parts, 8512.90.
- Customs duty applies per the current tariff, then 14% VAT on the CIF value including duty.
- A bare headlight lens normally needs no prior conformity certificate, but lighting bulbs may need to meet lighting standards; ask your broker before buying.
4. Shipping and ports
| Method | Typical time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Sea from Shanghai to Alexandria / Dekheila / Port Said / Sokhna | 25–35 days | Consolidated cartons (LCL) or a full container (20 ft ≈ 2,500–3,500 lenses) |
| Air to Cairo airport | 5–10 days | Urgent orders and samples; much more expensive per kilo |
| Buying from the New Cairo stock | 1–5 working days | Shops and workshops that need cleared parts at a landed price without import formalities |
5. Documents we provide
- Pro-forma invoice, then the final commercial invoice carrying the ACID number
- Packing list with weights, dimensions and HS codes
- Certificate of origin (China)
- Sea or air waybill
- On request: material test reports (light transmission, QUV) for your conformity file
6. When does direct import pay off?
When you order full cartons of fast-moving part numbers (Corolla, Elantra, Sunny, Accent, Sportage, Tucson, Mercedes E and C-Class, BMW 5 Series) that fill a container or a large LCL shipment. For smaller volumes the local stock price, including duty and transport, is usually below the cost of piecemeal importing. See the wholesale terms or ask for a quantity quote.
Sources
- Nafeza — Advance Cargo Information system
- General Organization for Export and Import Control
- Egyptian Customs Authority — tariff
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an ACID number for a small air shipment?
In principle yes; the ACI system also covers air freight. Small personal samples may be handled as postal parcels under different rules — ask the courier.
How long does a container take from Shanghai to Alexandria?
Usually 25–35 days at sea plus 3–10 days for clearance depending on how complete the documents are.
Are the site prices inclusive of customs?
Reference prices per piece delivered Cairo from the local stock are landed and cleared. FOB/CIF prices for importers are quoted separately.
Last updated: 2026-10-14