A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO SHIPPING FROM CHINA TO INDONESIA
China and Indonesia share a robust trade relationship, with bilateral trade exceeding $100 billion annually. China is Indonesia’s largest trading partner, primarily exporting electronics, machinery, textiles, and consumer goods, while Indonesia exports commodities like coal, palm oil, and natural resources. The shipping volume between the two countries has grown significantly, with containerized trade playing a pivotal role. For instance, the China-Indonesia route has seen a 23% year-on-year increase in cargo volume in 2025. This guide provides a detailed overview of shipping options, costs, regulations, and trade policies to streamline logistics between China and Indonesia.
Ocean Freight from China to Indonesia
Ocean freight is the most cost-effective option for large-volume shipments, balancing affordability and reliability.
Transit Time
Standard Shipping: 12–25 days from major Chinese ports to Indonesia.
Express Services: Some specialized routes (e.g., Shenzhen to Jakarta) can reduce transit time to 10–18 days.
Delays may occur due to port congestion, weather, or customs inspections.
Price
FCL (Full Container Load):
20ft container (20GP): $600–$1,500 USD
40ft container (40GP/HC): $1,200–$2,800 USD
LCL (Less than Container Load): $50–$150 per CBM.
Additional Costs: Fuel surcharges (BAF), peak season surcharges (PSS), and port fees may apply.
Key Factors Influencing Freight Rates
Fuel Costs: Bunker fuel prices directly impact rates.
Peak Season Surcharges (PSS): Higher demand during holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year) increases costs.
Container Availability: Imbalances in container repositioning affect pricing.
Port Congestion: Delays at major ports (e.g., Jakarta, Shanghai) incur additional fees.
Cargo Type: Dangerous, perishable, or high-value goods may require special handling and incur extra charges.
Major Ports in Origin & Destination Countries
China (Origin): Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Guangzhou, Qingdao.
Indonesia (Destination):
Jakarta (Tanjung Priok): Indonesia’s largest and busiest port, handling over 50% of the country’s container traffic.
Surabaya (Tanjung Perak): Key port for eastern Indonesia.
Belawan: Serves northern Sumatra.
Makassar: Handles cargo for eastern Indonesia
Air Freight from China to Indonesia
Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable goods.
Transit Time
Standard Air Freight: 3–7 days for door-to-door delivery.
Express Services: 2–5 days for major cities like Jakarta or Surabaya.
Time includes customs clearance and last-mile delivery.
Price
Rates are based on chargeable weight (volumetric or actual weight, whichever is higher).
Volumetric Formula: Length × Width × Height (cm) / 6,000.
Sample Rates:
General cargo: $3.50–$8.50 USD/kg
Express services: Higher rates but faster delivery.
Key Factors Influencing Freight Rates
Fuel and Security Surcharges: Fluctuate with market conditions.
Demand and Capacity: Peak seasons (e.g., holidays) reduce space and increase prices.
Cargo Type: Sensitive goods (e.g., electronics, chemicals) may require special handling.
Route: Direct flights are faster but costlier than transited routes.
Major Airports in Origin & Destination Countries
China (Origin): PVG (Shanghai Pudong), CAN (Guangzhou Baiyun), SZX (Shenzhen Bao’an).
Indonesia (Destination):
CGK (Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta): Major hub for cargo and passengers.
SUB (Juanda International Airport, Surabaya): Serves eastern Indonesia.
DPS (Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali): Key for tourism and perishable goods.
Import & Export Taxes
Understanding Indonesia’s tax structure is essential for calculating total landed costs.
Indonesia Import Taxes
Customs Duty: Applied based on the product’s HS code and CIF value. Rates range from 0% to 25%.
Value-Added Tax (VAT): A standard 10% is levied on the CIF value + customs duty.
Import Declaration Fee: 1% of the CIF value.
Duty Exemptions: Goods under $1,000 may be exempt from duty but subject to VAT.
Estimated Duty Rates for Key Commodities
Electronics: 0–5%
Textiles and Apparel: 10–20%
Machinery and Equipment: 0–10%
Luxury Goods: 20–25%
How to Find Import Duty Rates for Your Goods?
Use the Indonesian Customs Tariff Database or consult the Customs Act.
Work with a licensed customs broker or freight forwarder for accurate classification and rate assessment.
How to Pay Taxes for Your Import?
Taxes are paid during customs clearance. Your freight forwarder or broker typically handles this, issuing an invoice for duties and VAT.
Ensure commercial invoices accurately declare the value of goods to avoid delays or penalties.
Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Goods
Indonesia has imposed anti-dumping duties on specific Chinese products to protect local industries.
Nylon Film (Polyamide Film): Anti-dumping duties of 1,254–11,493 IDR/kg on nylon film from China (HS codes ex3920.92.10 and ex3920.92.99).
Check Current Measures: Always verify the status of anti-dumping duties for your product on the website of Indonesia’s Anti-Dumping Committee.
Bilateral Beneficial Trade Policies
China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA): Eliminates tariffs on 90% of goods traded between China and Indonesia.
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): Further reduces tariffs and simplifies customs procedures.
Local Currency Settlement (LCS) Framework: Facilitates direct transactions in CNY and IDR, reducing dependency on USD and lowering transaction costs.
Steps for Shipping from China to Indonesia
Choose Incoterms: Define responsibilities with your supplier (e.g., FOB Shanghai or EXW Shenzhen).
Select a Freight Forwarder: Engage a reputable forwarder with experience in Indonesia shipments.
Book and Pick Up Cargo: Your forwarder books space with a carrier and arranges pickup.
Export Customs Clearance (China): Handled by your forwarder or the supplier’s agent.
Main Carriage: Goods travel via ocean or air to Indonesia.
Import Customs Clearance (Indonesia): Submit documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill, certificate of origin) to Indonesian Customs.
Pay Duties and Taxes: Your broker pays these on your behalf and invoices you.
Port/Airport Handling: Cleared goods are transported to your destination.
Quarantine Inspection (if required): Products like food, plants, or animal materials may require additional checks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the cheapest way to ship from China to Indonesia?
A: Ocean freight, particularly LCL for smaller shipments and FCL for larger volumes, is the most economical option for non-urgent goods.
Q2: How can I avoid paying import duty in Indonesia?
A: You cannot legally avoid duty if applicable, but you can minimize costs by:
Ensuring goods are accurately classified under a zero-duty tariff code.
Using trade agreement benefits (e.g., CAFTA or RCEP) where available.
Q3: What items are prohibited from being imported into Indonesia?
A: Restricted items include hazardous materials, counterfeit goods, and certain agricultural products. Always check the Indonesian Customs website for updated lists.
Q4: Should I use a freight forwarder or handle shipping myself?
A: For most importers, using a professional freight forwarder is recommended due to the complexity of customs regulations, documentation, and logistics.
Q5: What is the difference between DDP and DDU shipping terms?
A: DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) means the seller delivers goods to your door, but you pay import duties and taxes. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) includes all costs paid by the seller, offering a hassle-free option for buyers.
Final Tips
Plan Ahead: Account for potential delays during peak seasons and at transit ports.
Documentation: Ensure all paperwork is accurate to avoid customs hold-ups.
Partner with Experts: Work with experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers to navigate the complexities of international shipping.
This guide serves as a foundational resource for shipping from China to Indonesia. For the most current rates and regulations, consult with logistics professionals or refer to official sources like Indonesian Customs and the Anti-Dumping Committee.