Customs Clearance in Thailand: Process In Brief
Since Foreign Business Act of 1999 doesn’t restrict import/export business to foreign investors in Thailand, more number of foreigners are showing interest. Another great thing about it is that it is not regulated by any overarching law, meaning goods can be imported in Thailand without much restriction. However, when trading goods to and from Thailand it is important to clear customs. Customs clearance in Thailand is often considered as one of the major headaches as it often results in endless delays and sometimes added cost. Custom clearance services are therefore designed to make sure that the consignments are deported on time without any hassle.
As for the law, when goods arrive in Thailand, you will have to file a Declaration and submit supporting documents to the Customs officer right at the entrance of the port. However, imported cargos are not permitted to enter Thailand legally until the shipment has arrived. Typically, the importer is responsible to arrange examination as well as release the importer cargo.
Additionally, depending on the imports’ nature the importers will need to obtain a permit in order to facilitate import clearance. Read on to know the documents you require submitting;
- Import Declaration
- Invoice
- Import License, if applicable
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill
- Certificates of Origin, if applicable
- Packing List
- Other documents are catalogue and product ingredients, etc
The Process
Usually, the process includes four stages;
Stage #1
The first process is to complete the Import Declaration and submit it.
Stage #2
Now, you must check and verify the Declaration and the supporting documents. Your given data will be validated and a payment number would be issued to make the payment.
Stage #3
The third stage involves making payments of applicable duties and taxes or guarantee. Currently, there are two different options for import duties and taxes payment. You can either pay at the Customs Department or make payment through e-payment system.
Step #4
The last and final step is one of the most crucial steps, where the cargoes are inspected again from Customs custody for release.
In case of export, the customs clearance in Thailand the process and documents required will be similar. Just that you don’t have to include packing list and Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill in the documents.
