How to Avoid Shipment Delays in Thailand: A Practical Guide for International Businesses

Shipping goods into Thailand can feel smooth one week and chaotic the next — not because Thai customs is unpredictable, but because many importers aren’t aware of how specific the rules are. A small paperwork mistake, the wrong product description, or a missing permit can turn a 2-day clearance into a 2-week headache.

This guide breaks down the real reasons shipments get delayed in Thailand and how you can avoid them, especially if you ship regularly or are planning to expand your business in the Thai market.

**1. Incomplete or Vague Documentation**

The most common cause of delays is also the most avoidable. Thai customs is detail-oriented. If your documents don’t match your cargo perfectly, the shipment will be held.

High-risk mistakes:

• “General” descriptions (e.g., electronics, spare parts, clothing)
• Missing packing details
• Wrong HS codes
• Different values on invoice vs. shipping documents

What to do instead:

• Use clear, specific product descriptions
• Ensure invoice, packing list, and AWB/BL have matching info
• Let your customs broker pre-check documents before shipping

**2. HS Code Misclassification**

Thailand follows the international HS system, but some categories are interpreted more strictly.

Examples of items that often get flagged:

• Supplements and cosmetics
• Electronic devices/accessories
• Industrial machinery parts
• Anything that may require FDA/TCB permits

A wrong HS code can trigger:

• Reassessment
• Additional taxes
• Permit requirements you weren’t prepared for

Tip: Ask your broker to pre-classify your goods before you ship.

**3. Missing Import Licenses or Certifications**

Unlike some countries, Thailand enforces license requirements consistently. If your goods fall under a regulated category, they will not be released without the proper permits.

Common products needing permits:

• Food, supplements, drinks → Thai FDA
• Wireless devices → NBTC
• Cosmetics & skincare → FDA
• Medical equipment → FDA
• Chemicals → Hazmat approvals
• Used machinery → Extra inspection documents

If you’re unsure whether you need a permit, assume yes until confirmed otherwise.

**4. Undervalued or “Too Low” Declared Prices**

Thailand monitors import values very closely. If the declared price is significantly below the market range, Customs may:

• Reject the value
• Impose a reference value
• Request supporting documents

Even one undervalued shipment can cause future shipments to get flagged automatically.

**5. Using the Wrong Importer Type**

Foreign businesses often choose the incorrect importer setup, which causes clearance delays or unnecessary taxes.

Common importer types in Thailand:

• Company import (your Thai entity)
• Personal import (for low-value shipments)
• Import via logistics provider
• Import under a customs broker’s importer ID (special cases)

Each option affects:

• Duties & VAT
• Permit requirements
• How fast goods can be released

Choosing the wrong path can slow everything down.

**6. Not Preparing for Customs Inspections**

Inspections are normal, especially for:

• New importers
• New product lines
• Red-flag categories (electronics, supplements, anything expensive)

If your shipment gets inspected and your documents are flawless, the process is smooth. If not, delays multiply fast.

Be prepared with:

• Product photos
• Specification sheets
• Receipts or supplier invoices
• Certificates or test reports (if needed)

**7. Working With a Broker That Doesn’t Specialize in Thailand**

Thailand’s customs system has:

• Unique codes
• Local regulations
• Frequent regulation changes
• Language-specific documents

If your broker isn’t experienced with Thai rules, clearance becomes trial-and-error.

A Thailand-based broker who deals with your product category daily can reduce clearance time drastically.

**8. Not Planning for “Thai Timing”**

While Thai Customs works efficiently, certain periods slow everything down:

• Long public holidays (Songkran, New Year)
• Weekends + goods arriving late Friday
• Rainy season port congestion
• End-of-month import surges

Smart importers avoid scheduling cargo arrivals at these peak windows.

**9. Incorrect or Missing Tax ID**

For business imports, your Thai tax ID must be correct and active in the customs system. If you recently registered your company or changed addresses, the system may not be updated.

This causes:

• System holds
• Manual verification
• Red channel inspection

It’s a small step but often overlooked.

**10. Poor Communication Between Supplier, Forwarder & Broker**

Most delays happen because these three parties don’t share accurate info. For smooth clearance:

• The supplier needs correct documents
• The forwarder needs correct shipment data
• The broker needs both

If even one of them has outdated information, clearance stalls.

**How to Make Your Shipments Run Smoothly**

• Send your broker product details before shipping
• Let a Thai specialist confirm HS codes
• Double-check all documents match
• Expect inspections and have documents ready
• Avoid peak import days
• Work with a dedicated Thai customs team

These steps remove 90% of preventable delays.