Important Update for Saudi Arabia Shipments: Address Short Code Requirement & SABER HS Code Changes

As Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its logistics digitalization and customs compliance framework, two major regulatory updates will take effect on January 1, 2026. Both changes are critical for exporters shipping goods to Saudi Arabia and may directly impact customs clearance and last-mile delivery.

Goodship56 has summarized the key points below to help exporters stay compliant and avoid unnecessary delays.

1. Mandatory Address Short Code for All Shipments to Saudi Arabia

According to the latest regulations issued by the Saudi Transport General Authority (TGA), all shipments destined for Saudi Arabia must include a valid Address Short Code for the consignee starting January 1, 2026.

What is an Address Short Code?

The Address Short Code is officially issued by Saudi Post (SPL) and serves as the unique identifier within Saudi Arabia’s National Address system.

• Format: 4 English letters + 4 Arabic numerals
• Example: RRRD2929
• Each code is uniquely linked to an official national address
• Widely used for customs clearance, logistics routing, and last-mile delivery

What Happens If the Address Short Code Is Missing?

Failure to provide a valid Address Short Code may result in:

• Inability to submit shipment pre-alert information
• Customs clearance or delivery delays
• Potential shipment holds, returns, or additional charges

Action Required

Exporters should notify Saudi consignees in advance to register and obtain their Address Short Code via the official Saudi Post website:

https://splonline.com.sa/en/national-address-1/

Goodship56 strongly recommends confirming the Address Short Code before booking or shipping to avoid last-minute disruptions.

2. SABER Platform: HS Code Updates Announced

In addition to the address requirement, Saudi Arabia has also updated compliance rules on the SABER electronic conformity platform.

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has officially announced updates to certain HS Codes used on the SABER platform, aligning them with the latest policies of the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA).

Effective Date

January 1, 2026

Scope of Impact

The update applies to all regulated products that require:

• Product Conformity Certificate (PC)
• Shipment Conformity Certificate (SC)

All applications submitted through the SABER platform must use the updated HS Codes.

Key Compliance Risk

Using outdated HS Codes may result in:

• Rejection of PC or SC applications
• Delays in customs clearance
• Disruptions to shipment schedules and delivery commitments

Official Reference

The updated HS Code list is available via the official SABER platform:

https://saber.sa/Assets/Home/hscodes-11-2025.pdf

Exporters are advised to verify the correct HS Codes through the SABER system or consult professional compliance agencies before shipping.

How Goodship56 Supports Your Saudi Arabia Shipments

With Saudi Arabia continuously upgrading its regulatory and logistics requirements, early preparation and professional support are essential.

Goodship56 provides comprehensive solutions to help exporters ship to Saudi Arabia with confidence:

• Pre-shipment compliance checks (Address Short Code, HS Code, shipping documents)
• Extensive experience with Saudi routes and SABER requirements
• Coordination with third-party certification and compliance partners
• Risk reduction for delays, rejections, and hidden costs

Final Notes

These 2026 regulatory updates are not merely procedural changes — they represent a higher compliance threshold for all exporters shipping to Saudi Arabia.

Ensuring the correct Address Short Code and updated HS Codes is essential for smooth customs clearance and on-time delivery.

If you are planning ongoing shipments to Saudi Arabia or would like assistance reviewing your compliance readiness, please contact Goodship56. Our team is ready to support your Saudi logistics strategy with reliable and compliant solutions.