What Documents Are Needed for Customs Clearance in Indonesia?

Imagine this: You’ve ordered a container full of products from overseas — maybe artisanal coffee beans, eco-friendly kitchenware, or the latest gadgets for your store. You’re excited to finally receive them, but when they arrive at the port… they can’t be released. The reason? Missing or incomplete paperwork.

For many first-time importers and SMEs, customs clearance can feel like a maze. But with the right documents prepared in advance, the process becomes far less daunting. Here’s a beginner-friendly breakdown of what you’ll need before your goods can officially enter Indonesia.

Core Customs Documents

These are the essentials that almost every importer must prepare:

• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB):
  Proof that the goods have been shipped — issued by your shipping line or airline.
• Commercial Invoice:
  Details the value and description of your goods, used to assess duties and taxes.
• Packing List:
  Specifies the weight, quantity, and packaging details of each shipment.
• Import Declaration (PIB):
  Submitted electronically to the Indonesian Customs system before clearance.
• Import Identification Number (API):
  Required for most importers — different types exist depending on your business scope.
• NIB (Business Identification Number):
  Your official business registration number issued through the OSS (Online Single Submission) system.

Additional Documents Depending on Your Goods

Some products require extra paperwork before they can be imported:

• Import Permits: From agencies such as the Ministry of Trade, BPOM (for food and cosmetics), SNI certification bodies, surveyor reports, or the SDDPI certificate for IT products.
• Certificate of Origin (SKA/COO): For reduced tariffs under trade agreements.
• Insurance Certificate: Proof that your shipment is covered in case of loss or damage.

ZendEase handles it all. Our team ensures every permit and document is in place so your shipments clear customs smoothly — saving you time and avoiding unnecessary delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mismatch between invoice and packing list: Even a minor error can delay clearance.
• Forgetting permits for restricted goods: Categories like electronics, pharmaceuticals, or agricultural products often require special approval.
• Submitting documents late: Delays can result in higher storage fees at the port.

Let’s say you’re a small coffee roaster importing green coffee beans:

You’ll likely need a Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Import Declaration, NIB, and possibly a phytosanitary certificate.

If you’re importing electronics instead, you may need additional Ministry of Trade permits and SNI certification before customs will clear your goods.

Customs clearance in Indonesia doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does require careful preparation. Think of your documents as your shipment’s passport. Without them, your goods will be stuck at the border.

Need help making sure your paperwork is complete? Send us your detailed inquiry at indonesia@1export.com, and the ZendEase team will guide you through the process so your products can move smoothly from port to store.