A guide to importing from the US to Indonesia with DHL Express

The economic ties between the United States (US) and Indonesia have strengthened considerably over the years, fostering a dynamic trade relationship that presents significant opportunities for Indonesian businesses seeking high-quality American goods. The flow of commerce between these two nations is substantial and expanding, reaching an estimated total of US$38.3 billion in 2024¹. Meanwhile, the imports to Indonesia from the US reached US$10.2 billion during the same period².

However, importing goods to a different country, such as from the US to Indonesia, comes with challenges, especially for new business owners. Geographical distance, differing regulatory frameworks, and the complexities of international logistics necessitate expert guidance and a robust, reliable shipping infrastructure. To help businesses, here's an overview of how to import goods from the US to Indonesia.

Understanding Indonesia's import market from the US

Understanding Indonesia's import market for goods from the United States is the first crucial step for any Indonesian or American business looking to capitalize on this trade relationship. This involves identifying the key sectors driving demand and familiarizing oneself with the relevant regulatory landscape.

Key sectors and demand

Several key industries within Indonesia exhibit a strong and consistent demand for imports from the United States in 2025. Notably, petroleum gas, crude petroleum, and acyclic Hydrocarbons constitute a significant portion of these imports³. Also, low-voltage protection equipment also contributed, supporting Indonesia's manufacturing sectors and infrastructure development. On the other hand, Indonesia's rapidly growing technology sector also drives substantial imports of electrical and electronic equipment and components from the US, reaching US$407.44 million in 2023⁴.

Regulatory landscape

Successfully importing from the US to Indonesia requires navigating the Indonesian regulatory landscape. Several government bodies play a crucial role in overseeing import duties and processes and ensuring compliance with national laws and standards. These include:

• The Directorate General of Customs and Excise (Direktorat Jenderal Bea dan Cukai or DJBC): Responsible for controlling the movement of goods across Indonesia's borders. Its key functions include enforcing customs regulations and collecting applicable tariffs and taxes on imported and exported items. 
• National Agency of Drug and Food Control (Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan or BPOM): Oversees the quality, safety, and effectiveness of all medicinal products and food items that are brought into Indonesia. They establish and enforce standards to protect public health from potentially harmful or substandard products. 
• Ministry of Trade (Kementerian Perdagangan): Manages Indonesia's trade activities, both domestically and internationally. Its responsibilities include issuing licenses for businesses involved in import and export, safeguarding consumer rights, regulating futures trading, and overseeing the operation of special economic zones. 
• Ministry of Industry (Kementerian Perindustrian): Sets the standards and rules for industrial goods entering Indonesia from America and other parts of the world. It works to ensure that these imported industrial products meet the necessary quality, technical specifications, and safety requirements for their intended use within Indonesian industries.
• Ministry of Agriculture (Kementerian Pertanian): Regulates the importation of agricultural products with a primary focus on protecting Indonesia's agricultural environment from biological threats. Their regulations and procedures aim to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases through imported plants, animals, and related materials.

Top imported commodities from the US to Indonesia

The trade relationship between the US and Indonesia is characterized by a consistent flow of specific commodities that are vital to Indonesia's economic activities and development.

Mineral fuels, oils, and distillation products

The importation of mineral fuels, oils, and distillation products, including volumes of crude oil, refined petroleum products, and other related materials from the US, plays a critical role in meeting Indonesia's substantial energy demands. While Indonesia is also a producer of certain energy resources, imports from the US help to supplement domestic production and ensure a stable and reliable energy supply to support continued economic growth.

Machinery

A significant portion of US imports to Indonesia involves various types of machinery, including turbo-jets, turbo-propellers and other gas turbines, and parts of pulley tackle, derricks, cranes, lifts, and more, which reached US$252.33 million and $152.76 million in 2023⁵, respectively. These are then used in different industrial sectors in the country to enhance their operational efficiency and technological capabilities.

Electrical, electronic equipment

The rapid advancement of technology in Indonesia fuels a strong demand for electrical and electronic equipment and components from the United States. These imports include electrical apparatus for line telephony or line telegraphy, insulated wire, cable and other insulated electric conductors, and more.

Overcoming import challenges: Navigating US to Indonesia trade

While the opportunities for the US to import to Indonesia are significant, businesses must also be prepared to handle due diligence and potential challenges that can arise in this international trade lane.

Supplier selection and due diligence

One of the initial hurdles when importing from the US is verifying the credibility and reliability of potential suppliers from a significant geographical distance. Indonesian businesses may face challenges in conducting thorough on-site inspections and building trust with new partners, and the distance can also increase the risk of encountering counterfeit goods or inconsistencies in product quality if proper due diligence is not exercised. Establishing clear communication channels, requesting detailed product specifications and certifications, and potentially engaging third-party inspection services can help mitigate these risks.

Documentation and regulatory hurdles

Navigating Indonesian import documents for customs clearance and the broader import regulations can be complex. The potential for errors in documentation, such as incorrect invoicing, inaccurate packing lists, Harmonized System (HS) code classification, or missing certificates of origin, can lead to significant delays in customs clearance. Furthermore, staying up-to-date with frequently changing regulations and ensuring full compliance can be a continuous challenge. Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, and even the seizure of goods. 

Managing costs and volatility

Fluctuations in international shipping rates can significantly impact the overall cost of importing from the US to Indonesia. Factors such as fuel prices, demand, and geopolitical events can introduce volatility into shipping budgets. To manage these costs effectively, Indonesian and American importers should explore strategies for optimizing shipping routes, consolidating shipments where possible, and carefully evaluating different modes of transportation based on their specific needs and the nature of the goods being imported.

Mitigating supply chain disruptions and delays

The supply chain shipping process between the US and Indonesia is susceptible to various potential disruptions and delays. These include port congestion at either end, a thorough inspection of Indonesian import customs documents, unpredictable weather patterns affecting sea and air transport, and other unforeseen logistical challenges. To minimize the impact of such disruptions, importers must develop robust contingency plans, explore diversified shipping options, and work with logistics partners with strong networks and experience in managing these complexities.

Importing from the US to Indonesia made easier with DHL Express

The US presents many opportunities for Indonesian and American businesses seeking to import a diverse range of high-quality goods. However, successfully navigating the complexities of importing from the US requires a strong understanding of import regulations in Indonesia, efficient supply chain shipping, and a reliable logistics partner.

This is where DHL Express comes in. We understand that every business has unique logistical needs. Our team of experts can tailor delivery services to match your specific requirements, whether you are importing small, time-sensitive shipments or larger, less urgent cargo. We can guide you through the complexities of import regulations, assist with documentation requirements, and provide support in optimizing your international shipping rates.

Take the next step in expanding your sourcing options. Open a DHL Express Business Account today and experience reliable and efficient international shipping services in Indonesia and overseas tailored to your import needs from the US.