A Practical Guide to Import Electronics into Indonesia

Corporate Secretary Service Indonesia – If you’re planning to import electronics into Indonesia, there are a number of important steps you need to take to ensure the process runs smoothly and complies with local regulations. At PortCorp, we’ve helped many businesses, both local and international, navigate the technical and legal requirements for bringing electronic products into the Indonesian market. This guide is based on real experience and current laws enforced by Indonesian Customs and related government agencies.

1. Start with Complete Product Specifications

Before you even place an order or schedule a shipment as import into Indonesia, make sure your electronic products are fully documented. The technical details are essential, not only for identifying your products but also for classification and certification purposes. You’ll need to prepare:

• Brand, model, and product category
• Key functions or usage
• Power consumption (in watts and voltage)
• Wireless features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC
• Certificates from the country of origin (CE, FCC, RoHS if available)

These details are used by Indonesian authorities to determine the product’s HS Code, which is crucial for customs clearance and taxation.

2. Understand the Required Certifications in Indonesia

When you import electronics into Indonesia, certification is not optional. Certain products, especially telecommunications and household electronics, must be tested and approved locally. There are two main certifications:

• SDPPI: Required for telecommunications equipment, based on the Indonesian Ministry of Communication Regulation No. 16/2018.
• SNI: Required for electronic household appliances and certain safety-sensitive items, based on Ministry of Trade Regulation No. 78/2019.

Applying for these certificates can take time, so plan accordingly.

Read Also: What Is Undername Import and How Does It Work in Indonesia?

3. Assign the Correct HS Code

The HS Code (Harmonized System Code) identifies your product category for customs. It determines:

• How much import duty you’ll pay
• The type and amount of VAT (usually 11%) and income tax (between 2.5%–7.5%)
• Whether you’ll need extra permits or checks

Tip: Don’t rely entirely on HS Codes provided by overseas suppliers, they may not match the classification used in Indonesia. Always double-check with local consultants or your import license service provider.

4. Prepare All Shipping Documents

Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can delay your shipment and even cause fines. Make sure you have:

• Invoice: Includes the declared value and product description
• Packing List: Details what’s inside the shipment
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: Confirms shipping details
• Certificate of Origin: Needed to claim Free Trade Agreement (FTA) tariffs
• Technical Certificates: CE, FCC, SDPPI, or SNI as required

5. Use the Right Packaging

Electronics are fragile. Improper packing could lead to damaged goods or invalid insurance claims. Best practices include:

• Anti-static wrap and foam inserts
• Strong, double-layered cardboard or wooden crates
• Clear “FRAGILE” labels
• For bulk shipments, choose FCL (Full Container Load) instead of mixed cargo to avoid damage

Navigating the process to import electronics into Indonesia can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right documents, certifications, and logistics planning, you can minimize risk and ensure your products clear customs without delay. At PortCorp, we specialize in helping businesses handle all import-related tasks, from license applications to customs management. If you’re ready to bring your electronics into Indonesia the right way, we’re here to assist.

So, don’t worry about developing your business by setting up a company in Indonesia, because Portcorp is here as a solution for your business, also when you need import into Indonesia. Portcorp is your comprehensive corporate secretary service in Indonesia. With our presence, you can get a dedicated company secretary to support you to what you need. Our company secretaries will track deadlines and file paperwork so your business keeps running smoothly. Contact us now on +6221-5020-8090 for your business succeed in the future!