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Singapore Customs

Permit Validity and Error Messages

Learn how long transhipment permits remain valid, how to extend their validity in TradeNet, and what DCS Error and CA/SC Reject messages mean when submitting a permit application.

Last updated 24 February 2026

The validity period of a transhipment permit depends on the type of permit and the movement of goods.

In general:

  • Goods covered by a Through Bill of Lading/Airway Bill (all goods): approval date + 21 working days

  • Strategic goods under a Through Bill of Lading/Airway Bill: approval date + 22 working days

Important:
Validity periods may differ by declaration type. If you cannot use the permit within the stipulated period, you must extend its validity in TradeNet before it expires.

Error Messages in TradeNet

When a permit application contains missing information or errors, TradeNet will display one of the following messages:

  • DCS Error

    • This appears when the application is incomplete or contains invalid data. Correct the errors and resubmit.

  • CA/SC Reject

    • This appears when the application does not meet requirements set by Singapore Customs or other Competent Authorities (CAs).

After Correcting the Issue

Submit a new transhipment permit application after fixing the errors or omissions.
A new Unique Reference Number (URN) will be issued for every new application.