How to Ship From Hong Kong to Thailand

Thailand’s e-commerce and logistics landscape

Thailand’s digital economy is growing at an impressive pace. According to the Bangkok Post, Thailand’s e-commerce gross merchandise value (GMV) is projected to grow 19% to $26 billion in 2024, with further growth to come¹. This positions Thailand as one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in Asia.

Cross-border trade is also gaining momentum. In 2024, border trade rose by 6.1% year-on-year, hitting 1.8 trillion baht, with a target of reaching 2 trillion baht by 2027². This growth signals strong opportunities for Hong Kong exporters across industries.

Thai consumers are also highly digital-savvy. Over 80% of e-commerce transactions take place on mobile devices, with mobile wallets used in around 23% of purchases³. Importantly, cross-border e-commerce already makes up close to one-third of total online sales, showing strong demand for international brands.

For Hong Kong businesses, this means that choosing the right international courier and ensuring smooth overseas courier services is critical in building long-term customer trust.

Key shipping considerations and regulatory requirements

When planning how to ship to Thailand, Hong Kong businesses need to factor in customs processes, regulatory requirements, and consumer expectations.

Customs and import documentation

Shipping to Thailand requires careful preparation of international shipping documents. Essential paperwork includes:

• Commercial invoice: Must detail the value, description, quantity, and Incoterms of the shipment.
• Import entry form: Required for customs clearance.
• Export documentation and procedures: Must comply with Hong Kong’s export regulations and Thailand’s import laws.
• Declaration of HS codes: Ensures correct duty rates are applied.
• Proof of origin: Particularly relevant for goods claiming preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements.

Incorrect paperwork is one of the most common reasons for clearance delays. By leveraging DHL’s customs brokerage services, Hong Kong exporters can avoid costly disruptions and ensure compliance with Thailand’s rules.

VAT and duty requirements

Most imports into Thailand are subject to 7% VAT⁴. On top of that, Thailand import duty rates vary by product category. For instance, cosmetics and skincare products may attract different tariffs than electronics or textiles.

When asking what the import tax in Thailand is, businesses should note that rates vary based on the Harmonized System (HS) code assigned to their products. Partnering with DHL ensures accurate classification and smooth customs clearance.

Logistics infrastructure and delivery networks

While Thailand is investing heavily in infrastructure such as the Eastern Economic Corridor and high-speed rail, challenges remain. Urban traffic congestion and rural road conditions can impact last-mile delivery reliability.

Working with DHL ensures your parcels benefit from established delivery networks, extensive service coverage, and dependable international shipping services that bridge these gaps.

Consumer preferences and platforms

Dominant e-commerce platforms in Thailand include Shopee, Lazada, and Amazon. Social commerce is also thriving, with 44% of Thai consumers researching brands via social media and nearly 20% following sellers they had previously bought from³.

Popular product categories for shipping to Thailand include:

• Beauty and skincare
• Collectibles and accessories
• Snacks and supplements
• Pet products

By aligning your product offerings and shipping strategy with these preferences, Hong Kong businesses can better capture demand.

Strategies to ship effectively from Hong Kong to Thailand

To deliver a seamless experience when you send an international parcel from Hong Kong, you’ll need to carefully plan your logistics.

Plan shipping methods and services

Choosing the right types of international shipping methods ensures your goods reach customers efficiently:

• Time Definite Express delivery services: Ideal for time-sensitive shipments. DHL Express offers time-definite options such as Express 9:00, Express 10:30, and Express 12:00 deliveries.
• Economy: More suitable for non-urgent items, the Express Worldwide service helps to balance cost and delivery speed.

Peak seasons in Thailand, such as Songkran (April) and year-end holidays, often cause higher demand. Securing shipment space in advance can protect against price fluctuations and delays.

Stay prepared for customs clearance

Being proactive about customs procedures prevents delays. Ensure:

• HS codes are accurate and consistent.
• Commercial invoices are detailed and compliant.
• Valuations reflect fair market prices to avoid disputes.

DHL’s customs brokerage services help Hong Kong exporters manage the full import procedure in Thailand, ensuring compliance and reducing clearance times.

Leverage DHL’s network and digital tools

With DHL, businesses gain access to a global logistics network and user-friendly digital platforms:

• MyDHL+: Manage bookings, generate documents, and track shipments in one place.
• MyGTS (Global Trade Services): Calculate landed costs, including VAT, duties, and fees, before shipping.

By combining these tools with DHL’s warehousing and inventory management solutions, you can even position products closer to Thai consumers for faster delivery.

Plan for returns management

Returns are part of modern e-commerce. To maintain customer satisfaction, plan efficient reverse logistics:

• Offer consolidated return options for cost control.
• Use DHL’s global returns programs to handle high-value or fragile items.
• Provide clear return labels and instructions in Thai to simplify the process for customers.

Focus on consumer-centric touchpoints

Delivering a superior customer experience goes beyond fast delivery. Businesses should:

• Provide estimated delivery times in Thai, supported by DHL’s proactive tracking updates.
• Offer multiple payment options, including popular e-wallets.
• Use protective packaging suited for hot and humid climates.

By setting up a DHL Express business account, Hong Kong exporters can access preferential rates, advanced tools, and expert account management to optimize their international shipping services.

How DHL Express Hong Kong supports your shipping needs

Whether you are sending commercial parcels or personal packages, DHL is a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

• Corporate shipping: DHL Express supports exporters with scheduled pickups, complimentary packaging, and dedicated account management to streamline operations.
• Personal shipping: For those sending gifts or documents, DHL makes it easy to book shipments online, drop off parcels at service points, or schedule pickups.

With DHL, you can deliver overseas confidently, backed by reliable transit times, proactive updates, and strong customs clearance expertise.

DHL Express: Your partner for shipping from Hong Kong to Thailand

Expanding into Thailand is a strategic move for Hong Kong businesses tapping into South-East Asia’s booming e-commerce economy. Yet, success depends on mastering regulations, consumer behaviors, and logistics nuances.

DHL Express helps you navigate these challenges with confidence. From international courier services to advanced digital tools like MyDHL+, we provide end-to-end solutions that make it easier to deliver overseas, manage compliance, and keep customers happy.

If you’re planning your next export to Thailand, partner with DHL Express for reliable, flexible, and customer-centric shipping solutions. Open a DHL Express business account today to access tailored support, transparent pricing, and the power of the world’s most trusted overseas courier services.