How to clear your goods from customs clearance in Indonesia

Customs clearance is a crucial step in global trade, ensuring that shipments comply with import and export regulations. Through thorough inspections, customs authorities in Indonesia verify the contents of shipments, assess applicable duties and taxes, and prevent the importation of prohibited or restricted items. This process helps maintain trade integrity and ensures smooth cross-border transactions.

However, customs clearance inspections can sometimes lead to unexpected delays, causing uncertainty and potential financial setbacks. When faced with such delays, it’s essential to understand the common causes and proactive solutions to minimize disruptions and keep your shipments moving efficiently.

What are the common reasons for customs clearance delays during the import or export process?

These are some of the common reasons why shipments are delayed in customs clearance in Indonesia:

1. Missing or incomplete documentation

One primary reason for customs delays is incorrect or incomplete paperwork. To process shipments, customs officials require specific documents, including invoices, packing lists, and import permits. If any information is missing or inaccurate, customs clearance will be delayed until the issue is resolved.

2. Incorrect valuation of goods

Underreporting or overreporting the value of a shipment can raise red flags with customs authorities. If the declared value seems suspicious, customs may hold the package for further inspection and request additional proof, such as invoices or transaction records.

3. Prohibited or restricted items

Before importing or exporting goods, it’s essential to understand Indonesia’s regulations on prohibited and restricted items. Certain products, such as finished hand tools, sugar, ozone-depleting substances, and hazardous materials, are strictly prohibited from importation. Additionally, prohibited items for export include scrap metal, cultural heritage artifacts, mining products, subsidized fertilizers, and forestry goods.

On the other hand, items that require licensing before they can be imported to Indonesia include electronics, household appliances, textiles, and footwear, among others. 

If your shipment contains any of these items or lacks the required permits, it may face significant delays or even be denied clearance.

4. Unpaid import duties and taxes

Failure to pay the required import duties and taxes in advance can cause customs to hold your shipment until all fees are settled. Customs authorities in Indonesia require that all applicable charges, including import duties, value-added tax (VAT), and income tax (if applicable), are cleared before a package is released. If the payment is not processed on time, your shipment could remain stuck in customs for days or even weeks.

5. High shipment volume and holiday congestion

During peak shipping seasons—such as national holidays, year-end sales, or major shopping events—customs clearance processes often slow down due to a surge in import volume. Increased shipments mean customs officials have a larger workload, leading to processing backlogs and extended clearance times.

Tips on how to increase your chances of getting your goods cleared from customs

Although customs delays can sometimes be unavoidable, it's still important to take proactive steps to minimize the risk of it happening. By following these best practices, you can ensure smoother customs processing and avoid unnecessary hold-ups. 

1. Use the "Clear in the Air" process

When you partner with an international shipping company, like DHL Express, you can have your customs clearance process handled before your shipment arrives at the destination. This can be done through the following steps:

• Submit import documents electronically while your goods are still in transit.
• Customs authorities review and approve the shipment in advance.
• If approved, your package can be released quickly upon arrival, reducing wait times.

2. Ensure accurate and complete documentation

Missing or inaccurate paperwork is one of the leading causes of customs clearance delays. To prevent this, always double-check required documents such as the invoice, packing list, and necessary permits. Ensure all details—including product descriptions, values, and quantities—are accurate and match the actual shipment. 

By submitting complete and correct paperwork on time, you can ensure a customs process without additional verification or delays.

3. Declare the correct value of goods

Misdeclaring the value of a shipment can trigger customs inspections, penalties, or even shipment rejection. Always declare the true value of your goods and provide supporting documents such as purchase invoices, payment receipts, or contracts if requested. Being transparent about your shipment’s worth ensures faster clearance and prevents unnecessary scrutiny from customs authorities.

4. Plan shipments during off-peak seasons

Peak shipping periods, such as holiday seasons like Ramadan and year-end periods, often lead to congestion at customs due to the high volume of shipments. If possible, schedule your shipments during off-peak times to reduce the risk of clearance delays. Planning ahead and allowing extra time for customs processing during peak seasons can help ensure that your goods arrive on schedule.

5. Verify import restrictions before shipping

Shipping restricted or prohibited items without the proper authorization can cause significant delays, confiscation, or penalties. Always check Indonesia’s list of restricted and prohibited items before sending your goods. 

If your shipment includes controlled items, obtain the necessary permits or certifications in advance to prevent customs from holding or rejecting your package. 

Being aware of import regulations helps you avoid compliance issues and ensures a smooth customs process.

Minimize customs clearance delays with DHL Express

For a hassle-free customs clearance experience, partnering with DHL Express can make all the difference. Navigating Indonesia’s complex import regulations can be challenging, especially when dealing with documentation, duty payments, and compliance requirements. 

But with DHL Express, you gain access to international logistics expertise, ensuring that your shipments are processed smoothly and efficiently. Our team of customs specialists understands the latest Indonesian import regulations and can help you avoid common pitfalls that lead to clearance delays. By leveraging DHL’s fast and reliable services, you can ensure that your shipments reach their destination without unnecessary disruptions.

Open a business account with us today to get started.