A Simple Guide to Import Goods into Indonesia: Step-by-Step Process

Corporate Secretary Service Indonesia – Importing goods plays a key role in supporting Indonesia’s economy and meeting the demands of businesses and consumers. Whether it’s raw materials, machinery, electronics, or finished products, imported goods help fill the gap when certain items are not available or produced locally.

If your business involves bringing products or import goods into Indonesia, it’s important to understand how the import process works. Knowing the right steps not only helps you comply with regulations but also saves time, avoids unnecessary delays, and ensures a smoother operation overall. At PortCorp, we help simplify this process for international clients. Here’s a breakdown of how importing goods into Indonesia works:

1. Prepare the Necessary Documents

The first step before bringing in any goods is ensuring all documentation is ready and complete. This includes:

• A purchase contract or agreement with your overseas supplier
• Import declaration forms
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading or airway bill
• Certificate of origin (if applicable)
• Import license or relevant permits depending on the type of goods

Having these documents in order is crucial to avoid problems during customs clearance.

2. Pay Import Duties and Taxes

Before your goods are released by customs, you’re required to pay Import Duty and Import Tax. The rate will vary depending on the type, classification, and value of the goods. Payments are made through designated banks authorized by the Indonesian government. Be sure to consult the Indonesian Customs Tariff Book (BTKI) to get a sense of what your goods will be charged. At PortCorp, we help calculate your expected duty and ensure compliance with all applicable tariffs.

3. Submit the Import Declaration (PIB)

Once your payment is made and documents are in place, the next step is to submit the PIB (Pemberitahuan Impor Barang) or Import Declaration. This is a formal notice submitted electronically to the Indonesian Customs Office (Bea Cukai), informing them about your shipment. You’ll need to upload supporting documents along with your PIB via the INSW (Indonesia National Single Window) system.

Read Also: The Key Role of Importers in International Trade

4. Customs Inspection and Lane Determination

After reviewing your PIB, Customs will assign your shipment to one of four inspection lanes:

• Green Lane – No inspection required; fast track
• Yellow Lane – Document check only
• Red Lane – Full physical inspection of goods
• Priority Lane – For certified importers with trusted status, fast and minimal inspection

The lane your shipment is placed in will affect how quickly it’s cleared.

5. Receive the SPPB (Customs Release Letter)

If everything is in order and your goods pass the inspection (if applicable), Customs will issue the SPPB (Surat Persetujuan Pengeluaran Barang), or Goods Release Approval Letter. This is the official permit that allows your shipment to be released and distributed inside Indonesia.

6. Transport the Goods to Your Final Destination

Once your goods are cleared, they can be transported to your warehouse or distribution center. This may involve land transport via trucks or other domestic logistics providers. Make sure you coordinate with your freight forwarder to handle the final delivery efficiently.

Import goods into Indonesia may seem complex at first, but once you understand the process and have the right support, it becomes much easier. Following the correct procedures will help your business avoid penalties, minimize delays, and ensure compliance with local regulations. At PortCorp, we specialize in guiding businesses through every stage of the import process, from document preparation to customs clearance. Whether you’re a first-time importer or an international company looking to expand into Indonesia, we’re here to help.

Need help with your import process in Indonesia? Let PortCorp take care of it professionally, so you can focus on growing your business. 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 goods 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!