Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Balikbayan Box?
A balikbayan box is a shipping box commonly used by overseas Filipinos to send gifts and goods to loved ones in the Philippines.
How long does delivery take?
Estimated delivery is 8–12 weeks from sailing date.
Do you offer free pickup?
Free pickup may be available in selected areas depending on location and scheduling.
What can I put in my box?
You may send common household and personal items such as clothes, shoes, toys, groceries, and small non-prohibited goods.
Are there prohibited items?
Yes. Certain items may not be shipped. Customers should check the prohibited items list before sending.
Do you offer air freight?
No. LOVE BB Cargo currently specialises in sea cargo only.
Do you guarantee Christmas delivery?
Sea cargo schedules depend on sailing schedules, port handling, and customs processes. Delivery before Christmas cannot be guaranteed.
How do I book a pickup?
You can submit your booking through the website form or contact our team directly.
What is the official reference system for my shipment?
Every box receives a unique reference number during processing, serving as the official tracking reference. Use it on our website or tracking portal to view real-time shipment updates.
What happens if my shipment is delayed?
Delays may occur due to shipping schedules, customs clearance, port congestion, or weather. Track your shipment online and contact us if delays exceed the estimated delivery time.
What items are prohibited in a Balikbayan box?
Prohibited items include:
- Guns, explosives, and ammunition
- Dangerous, toxic, or radioactive substances
- Fresh fruits and vegetables, alcohol, and tobacco items
- Large or bulky items, counterfeit media, and cultural heritage objects
For full details, consult Philippine Bureau of Customs guidelines.
Can I send food in my Balikbayan box?
Yes, non-perishable food items are allowed, such as:
- Canned goods
- Snacks, noodles, and dry foods
- Confectionery
- Do not include dairy products, fresh/frozen meats, fruits, or fish. Check expiration dates, as transit may take 8–12 weeks.
Can I send fragile items?
Fragile items are permitted but may be susceptible to damage during transit. Proper packaging is required, as LOVE BALIKBAYAN is not responsible for any damage to fragile items.
Are there weight or size limits for boxes?
There is no strict weight limit, but boxes should be manageable for pickup and transport. Extremely heavy boxes may require additional handling assistance and payment.
We provide one standard box size:
Large: 72 cm (H) x 59 cm (W) x 52 cm (D)
How do I order a Balikbayan box?
Orders can be placed through our Online Booking System, via Facebook Messenger (https://www.facebook.com/LoveBalikbayanBox/), or by phone. A $10 fee per box, along with the delivery fee, applies and is not deductible from the shipping cost.
Can I use non-Love Balikbayan boxes?
Yes. Original packaging (e.g., appliances) is accepted as “Off Size” items. Provide dimensions and descriptions for a shipping quote.
How often do you ship to the Philippines?
Shipments are dispatched at least monthly. Boxes are processed, numbered, and carefully loaded at our Melbourne headquarters, with containers routed through an intermediary port before reaching Manila.
How long will it take for my shipment to arrive?
Delivery typically takes 8–12 weeks from the date of sailing.
What items can I send in a Love Balikbayan box?
Acceptable items include:
- Non-perishable foods (canned goods, noodles, cereals, coffee, tea, snacks)
- Clothing and shoes (new or used)
- Electronics (laptops, TVs)
- Gifts, decorative pieces, and souvenirs
How much does it cost to ship a Balikbayan box?
Shipping rates vary. Visit our Pricing Page for current costs.
Are taxes applied to gifts like furniture or electronics?
Used personal items sent through Balikbayan shipments are generally exempt from taxes. However, commercial items may be subject to customs fees, which will be advised to the sender if applicable.
What if payment is delayed or boxes are unclaimed?
- All goods must be paid in full before or at pickup. “No Payment, No Load” applies.
- Delayed payments may move your shipment to the next available batch within one month, or you may collect your goods at your own expense.
- Goods unclaimed two (2) weeks after the extension period are considered abandoned, and ownership transfers to LOVE BALIKBAYAN for disposal.
What happens if no one is home for delivery?
Kindly provide a contact number for coordination. Delivery will be attempted up to three times; if unsuccessful, we will reach out to the sender for further instructions.
Are there delivery restrictions in the Philippines?
Yes, certain areas have limited delivery coverage. Please consult our No-Service Area list before shipping.
How do I report a damaged or missing box?
To report a loss or damage, submit a claim within seven (7) days of delivery along with an Incident Report and supporting evidence to : info@lovebalikbayanbox.com.
Must I itemize goods on the declaration form?
Yes, a complete packing list is mandatory for both LOVE BALIKBAYAN and Philippine Customs.
How can I obtain a new packing form?
You can download it from our website or request that we email it to you.
How is my personal information protected?
Your information is collected and used exclusively for shipping purposes and is maintained under strict confidentiality.
Do you offer shipping from the Philippines to Australia?
Currently, LOVE BALIKBAYAN only ships to the Philippines. For shipments from the Philippines, consider Philpost, FedEx, UPS, or TNT.
Ready to Send Your Box Home?
Book your pickup today and send care, comfort, and love to your family in the Philippines through a service built with heart and reliability.