I. Basic Process for Shipping Tableware to Indonesia by Sea
Preparation Phase
Confirm the cargo list: Detail the types, quantities, and materials (e.g., ceramic, stainless steel, or plastic) of the tableware, and estimate the total volume and weight to plan the shipping solution.
Packaging Requirements: As tableware is fragile, use shock-resistant packaging materials (e.g., bubble wrap, foam boxes) and reinforce with sturdy cardboard or wooden crates. International shipping standards mandate moisture-proof and impact-resistant packaging to prevent damage during transit.
Labels and Markings: Clearly mark the destination port, consignee information, cargo weight, and fragile indicators on outer packaging to ensure accurate identification during transit.
Export Customs Clearance
Provide Required Documents: Submit commercial invoices, packing lists, contracts, and export licenses (if applicable).
Complete Customs Declaration: Process export customs clearance through Chinese customs to ensure legal departure of goods.
International Shipping
Book Cargo Space: Select Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) based on shipment volume. Confirm vessel schedules and costs with shipping lines or logistics providers.
Port Consolidation: Transport tableware to designated port or warehouse. After container loading and sealing, await shipment.
Import Clearance
Provide import documents: including Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, Health Certificate (if tableware is food contact material), etc.
Indonesian Agent Clearance: Engage local customs agents to handle duty calculation, document submission, and tax payment. Indonesia may impose tariffs and value-added tax (VAT) on tableware imports, with rates varying by material and value.
Customs Inspection: Indonesian customs may conduct random inspections, requiring cooperation and provision of relevant documentation.
Door-to-Door Delivery
Upon clearance completion, arrange inland transportation (e.g., truck or delivery service) to transport tableware from the port to the final destination and deliver to the consignee.
II. Key Considerations
Indonesian Import Regulations
Product Standards: Indonesia enforces strict hygiene and safety requirements for tableware (especially food contact items), requiring material safety certifications (e.g., FDA or CE certification).
Restrictions & Prohibitions: Certain materials (e.g., lead-containing ceramics) may be restricted; verify the latest regulations with Indonesia's Ministry of Trade beforehand.
Labeling Requirements: Product information and country of origin must be displayed in Indonesian on tableware packaging.
Insurance and Risk Management
Tableware is fragile and high-value. Purchase marine cargo insurance to cover breakage, loss, or delays during transit.
Select experienced logistics providers to ensure packaging and transport processes meet international standards.
Time and Cost Management
Transit Time: Sea freight from China to Indonesia typically takes 10–20 days, with customs clearance potentially adding 3–7 days. Plan ahead to avoid demurrage charges.
Cost Budgeting: Beyond ocean freight charges, allocate funds for customs duties, VAT, agent service fees, and inland transportation costs.
Selecting Professional Service Providers
Prioritize logistics companies offering one-stop services encompassing export customs clearance, ocean shipping, import clearance, and distribution to minimize communication costs between intermediaries.
Confirm the service provider maintains a local team in Indonesia capable of efficiently handling customs clearance issues and unexpected situations.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
