2024.12.09 logistics

What are the steps for importing goods by land? Key processes that business owners should know

back of a truck, loaded with caton boxes

Land-based imports are one of the most popular methods for businesses to bring goods into Thailand, especially from neighboring countries like China, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, using services provided bylogistics companies. These include a wide range of imported goods such as consumer products, raw materials, and electronic devices.

For those starting a business or planning to expand into importing goods from abroad, understanding each step of the import process is essential to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Preparing the Warehouse

Before proceeding with imports, preparing the warehouse is a critical factor that should not be overlooked. A well-organized pallet management system can reduce operational costs and enhance the speed of receiving, handling, and delivering goods to customers efficiently. This includes installing standard pallet racks, organizing forklift pathways, implementing tracking and storage systems, and allocating storage areas based on product types.

Steps in Land-Based Imports

After completing export customs clearance by the shipper or the freight forwarder hired by the business, the details of the goods are submitted to customs officials and recorded in the Customs Department’s system. Businesses must then follow these import procedures:

Prepare and Submit Import Declaration Documents

Importers or responsible parties must prepare the following documents for submission to the Customs Department:

Vehicle entry report and cargo manifest (Car Manifest) using Form S.B.1
Bill of lading
Comprehensive itemized goods list
Packing list
Import permits or legally required documents
Other documents, such as those for the carrier or insurance provider

These details can be submitted online for convenience. If electronic submission is unavailable, the importer can complete the Car Manifest (Form S.B.1) and submit it to customs officers at the border checkpoint for entry into the Customs Department’s system.

Customs Verification of Import Declaration

Once the Customs Department records the information, officials will verify the details in the import declaration, such as the importer’s name, address, taxpayer identification number, tariff classification, and declared value. If errors or discrepancies are found, customs will notify the importer for corrections. If the information is complete and accurate, a Received Control Number will be issued to the importer.

Tax Payment and Compliance Verification

Customs officials will review whether the goods comply with the Customs Department’s conditions, categorizing them into three types:

Green Line Imports – Goods exempt from inspection. Importers can pay the taxes, secure the necessary guarantees, and immediately transport the goods to their warehouses.
Red Line Imports – Goods subject to inspection. Importers must work with assessment units for verification before proceeding.
Yellow Line Imports – Goods exempt from licensing but require condition verification by customs before release.

Import taxes can be paid electronically, through banks, or directly to the Customs Department.

Inspection and Goods Release

delivery staff handing a box to the customer
The final step is inspection and goods release by customs. Importers must present the approved import declaration and payment receipt. If categorized as Green Line goods, customs will release the goods for delivery, often using large trucks to transport them to the business’s warehouse.

Conclusion While the import process may seem complex, businesses can useshipping services to act as intermediaries with customs and provide guidance on import regulations. This not only saves time and resources but also boosts the business’s credibility.

For businesses with warehouses or plans to improve efficiency, UPR (Thailand) Co., Ltd. offers high-quality plastic and wooden pallets for rental/purchase,pallet racks, storage equipment, andlogistics solutions. We provide comprehensive and professional services with over 10 years of experience in Thailand.