Freight shipping between Thailand and Germany | Rates – Transit time – Duties & Taxes

What’s the best method of transport between Thailand and Germany ?

There are 2 modes of transport between Thailand and Germany : air freight, sea freight.

However, the best method of transport largely depends on various factors such as :

• Budget
• Time constraints
• Personal preferences
• The level of comfort desired

In this direction guild, you can determine the mode of transport best suited to your needs.

Port of Lübeck

Located on the Trave River near the Baltic Sea, the Port of Lübeck is a major port in northern Germany. It is known for its container terminal and specializes in handling intermodal cargo, including containers, general cargo, and forest products. The port also provides ferry services to Scandinavia and the Baltic states.

Port of Kiel

Situated on the Baltic Sea, the Port of Kiel is a significant port in northern Germany, primarily serving as a hub for passenger shipping and cruise tourism. It offers ferry connections to Scandinavia and the Baltic states, and it also has facilities for the handling of general cargo and bulk cargo.

Transit time between ports in Thailand and ports in Germany

The transit time between the ports of Thailand and Germany can vary depending on several factors:

• Distance between the two countries
• Weather conditions
• Vessel availability
• Customs formalities
• etc.

It is therefore essential to note that the average figures given are approximate and may vary.

Here is a summary table of the average transit times, in days, between the largest Thailand and German ports.

*These transit times between Thailand and Germany are given as an indication.

It is advisable to contact shipping companies or freight forwarders for more precise information on current transit times. They will be able to consider the specific details of your shipment and provide you with more accurate estimates based on your particular situation.

Container types used for sea freight between Thailand and Germany

There are 3 main categories of standard container sizes :

• The 40-foot HQ (High Cube) : with a capcity of 76 cubic meters.
• The 40-foot container : with a capacity of 67 cubic meters.
• The 20-foot container : with a capacity of 33 cubic meters.

Each of these containers can be shipped by two different transportation methods.

Special transport by sea between Thailand and Germany

Reefer container 

Used for transporting perishable goods or goods requiring a controlled temperature (between -30°C and +30°C). This type of container is equipped with a refrigeration system that maintains the temperature inside the container within a specific range, thus guaranteeing the freshness and quality of the goods transported, such as heat-sensitive food or pharmaceutical products.

Roro 

Vessel specialized in transporting vehicles, such as cars, trucks or construction equipment. These vessels are equipped with ramps that allow vehicles to roll on and off the ship, facilitating loading and unloading.

Bulk 

Transport of bulk goods, such as grain, ores, bulk chemicals, etc. In this type of transport, goods are not packed individually but are loaded in bulk directly into the ship's hold, into specially designed tanks or hoppers. Bulk transport is commonly used for large-volume cargoes, and requires special facilities for loading and unloading.

OOG

Goods that exceed the standard dimensions of containers or ships. These may be very long, very wide, very high or unconventionally shaped objects. Transporting OOG goods requires special measures, such as the use of special containers, cranes or lifting devices, to ensure safe and efficient transport.

Two types of containers exist for these goods :

• Open Top Container : they have no roof, which allows loading cargo that exceeds the height of the containers.
• Flat Rack Container : these are flat containers without side walls or roofs, used for goods that cannot be loaded in standard containers.

How much does sea freight cost between Thailand and Germany

The cost of sea freight between Thailand and Germany can vary according to several factors :

• Type of goods
• Volume
• Weight
• Distance
• Transport conditions
• Port charges
• Other additional charges.

Exact rates can be obtained from shipping companies or forwarding agents specializing in sea freight. We recommend that you contact these companies directly to obtain accurate, up-to-date quotes.

Here are some average cost estimates for sea freight between Thailand and Germany.

*Please note that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier 

• Full Container Load (FCL) : 

For a 20-foot container (20' GP) : the average cost ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.

For a 40-foot container (40' GP) : The average cost ranges from $2,500 to $5,000.

• Less than Container Load (LCL) : 

The average cost per cubic meter ranges from $100 to $200.

Tariff surcharges

Tariff surcharges in sea freight refer to additional charges that can be applied on top of the base freight rates. These surcharges can vary depending on factors such as :

• Fuel prices
• Currency exchange rates
• Market conditions.

Some common tariff surcharges in sea freight include :

• Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF) : This surcharge is applied to compensate for fluctuations in fuel prices.
• Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF) : This surcharge accounts for changes in currency exchange rates between the origin and destination countries.
• Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) : It is levied during periods of high demand, such as peak holiday seasons.
• Emergency Risk Surcharge (ERS) : This surcharge may be imposed in situations of political instability, natural disasters, or other emergency events.
• Equipment Imbalance Surcharge (EIS) : It is applicable when there is a shortage or imbalance of shipping containers in a specific region.

Hat Yai International Airport 

Located in Hat Yai, in the southern part of Thailand, Hat Yai International Airport is a major airport serving the region. It operates domestic and international flights, connecting travelers to Hat Yai and the nearby provinces of Songkhla and Satun.

Krabi International Airport 

Situated in Krabi, on the Andaman Sea coast, Krabi International Airport serves as a gateway to the popular beach destinations in the region, including Krabi, Ao Nang, and Railay. It operates domestic and international flights, welcoming tourists from various parts of the world.

Germany’s main airports

Frankfurt Airport

Located in Frankfurt, Hesse, Frankfurt Airport is Germany's largest and busiest airport. It is also one of the busiest airports in Europe and a major global aviation hub. Frankfurt Airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, connecting passengers to destinations worldwide.

Munich Airport

Situated in Munich, Bavaria, Munich Airport is the second-largest airport in Germany and a prominent European hub. It handles a significant volume of domestic and international air traffic, providing connections to various destinations across the globe.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Serving the capital city, Berlin Brandenburg Airport is Germany's newest international airport. It replaced the former Tegel and Schönefeld airports and became fully operational in 2020. Berlin Brandenburg Airport connects Berlin with numerous domestic and international destinations.

Düsseldorf Airport

Located in Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Düsseldorf Airport is an important international airport in western Germany. It offers a wide range of flights, including both domestic and international routes, serving as a gateway to the vibrant Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region.

Hamburg Airport 

Situated in Hamburg, Hamburg Airport is one of the busiest airports in Germany, serving the country's second-largest city. It provides domestic and international flights, connecting passengers to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Cologne Bonn Airport 

Located in Cologne/Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Cologne Bonn Airport is a major airport in western Germany. It serves as a hub for both passenger and cargo flights and offers a mix of domestic, European, and intercontinental routes.

Transit time between ports in Thailand and ports in Germany

Transit times between airports in Thailand and airports in Germany can vary depending on several factors :

• The airline
• Flight duration
• Arrival and departure times
• Customs formalities
• etc.

Here is a summary table of the average transit times, in days, between the largest Thailand and German ports.

*These transit times between Thailand and Germany are given as an indication.

However, it's important to bear in mind that most flights between these two countries involve a stopover in another country, which can considerably increase the total transit time.

For more precise information on transit times, contact us. Our team will be happy to send you a free quote in less than a day.

How much does air freight cost between Thailand and Germany ?

The cost of air freight between Thailand and Germany can vary depending on several factors such as :

• The weight and Dimensions of the cargo
• The chosen airline
• The specific airports involved
• Any additional services required.

Air freight rates are typically calculated based on chargeable weight, which is either the actual weight or the volumetric weight, whichever is higher.

To provide you with some rough estimates, here are the average cost ranges for air freight between Thailand and Germany :

• General cargo :

For small shipments weighing up to 100 kg : the average cost range from  $3 to $8 per kilogram.

For larger shipments over 100 kg : the average cost ranges from $2 to $6 per kilogram.

• Express or time-sensitive shipments : 

The average cost can range from $10 to $15 per kilogram or higher.

It's a good idea to contact specialized air freight companies for customized quotes based on your specific needs. These companies will be able to take into account the details of your shipment and provide you with an accurate price for air freight between Thailand and Germany.

Door-to-door delivery between Thailand and Germany

We can meet your transportation needs, no matter which country in Europe you're traveling to or from. DocShipper's experts are at your side.

When organizing a door-to-door delivery, it's important to take a few things into account. First of all, you should ensure that your goods are properly packaged and labeled in accordance with the requirements of the chosen transport company. It is also advisable to take out insurance to cover any damage or loss during transport.

Delivery times may vary according to the distance between Thailand and Germany, as well as weather conditions, customs formalities and other factors. It is best to contact the transport company directly for precise information on delivery times.

Customs clearance in Thailand for goods imported from Germany

Customs clearance plays a crucial role in the import and export process in any country, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating the smooth flow of goods. In the case of importing goods from Germany to Thailand, understanding the customs clearance procedures is essential to avoid delays and complications.

When importing goods from Germany to Thailand, it is crucial to accurately declare the details of the goods and consult with Thai customs authorities for duty calculation. Additionally, the imported goods are subject to VAT, with a standard rate of 7%. To ensure compliance with Thai import regulations, it is important to consider restrictions on items such as drugs, counterfeits, weapons, hazardous materials, and wildlife. Regulated goods may require additional permits. To facilitate a smooth clearance process, it is advisable to collaborate with a licensed customs broker or freight forwarder who possesses expertise in Thai customs regulations.

 Customs value

The customs value is an important concept in international trade and customs clearance procedures. It refers to the value of imported or exported goods on which customs duties and taxes are calculated. Here are some key points regarding customs value :

• Transaction Value : The most common method for determining customs value is the transaction value. This is the price actually paid or payable for the goods when sold for export to the country of importation. The transaction value should include any costs and expenses incurred up to the point of importation, such as transportation, loading, and insurance.
• Adjustments to the Transaction Value : Certain adjustments may be necessary to arrive at the customs value. For example, the value of certain elements, such as royalties, license fees, or commissions related to the imported goods, may need to be added to the transaction value. Conversely, certain elements, such as the cost of transport and insurance after importation, may need to be deducted.
• Related Parties : When the buyer and seller of the imported goods have a relationship that may influence the price, the transaction value may not be acceptable for customs valuation purposes. In such cases, alternative methods, such as the transaction value of identical or similar goods, may be used to determine the customs value.
• Customs Valuation Methods : The World Trade Organization (WTO) has established a set of methods to determine customs value, known as the WTO Valuation Agreement. Apart from the transaction value method, other methods include the transaction value of identical or similar goods, deductive value method, computed value method, and fallback method.
• Documentation : Proper documentation is crucial to support the declared customs value. Commercial invoices, packing lists, contracts, and other relevant documents should accurately reflect the value and terms of the transaction. Customs authorities may request additional documentation or evidence to verify the declared customs value.
• Customs Audits and Disputes : Customs authorities have the right to audit and verify the accuracy of declared customs values. In case of disagreements or disputes, there are procedures to challenge the customs value determination. This may involve providing additional documentation, engaging in negotiations, or appealing the decision through administrative or legal channels.

What are customs duties and taxes ?

Customs duties and taxes are charges imposed by governments on goods that are imported or exported. These charges serve various purposes, such as regulating trade, protecting domestic industries, and generating revenue for the government. Here is a detailed explanation of customs duties and taxes :

• Customs Duties : Customs duties, also known as import duties or tariffs, are taxes imposed on goods when they are imported into a country. The purpose of customs duties is to protect domestic industries by making imported goods more expensive and less competitive in the domestic market. Customs duties can be specific (based on quantity or weight) or ad valorem (based on the value of the goods).
• Value Added Tax (VAT) : Value Added Tax, commonly referred to as VAT, is a consumption tax levied on the value added at each stage of the production and distribution process. VAT is typically applied to the final price of goods or services and is collected by the government. Unlike customs duties, VAT is generally imposed on both imported and domestically produced goods. The rate of VAT can vary from country to country.
• Excise Taxes : Excise taxes are specific taxes imposed on certain goods, such as alcohol, tobacco, gasoline, or luxury items. These taxes are usually intended to discourage the consumption of potentially harmful products or to generate additional revenue for the government. Excise taxes are often applied in addition to customs duties and VAT.
• Other Taxes and Fees : In addition to customs duties, VAT, and excise taxes, there may be other taxes or fees associated with international trade. These can include administrative fees, surcharges, or specific charges related to certain types of products, such as environmental levies. These additional taxes and fees can vary depending on the country and the specific goods being imported or exported.

It is important to note that the rates of customs duties and taxes in Thailand may change at any time depending on current trade policies.

How to calculate customs duties and taxes ?

Calculating customs duties and taxes on imports into Thailand can be a complex process that depends on several factors, such as the type of product, its value, and its country of origin. Here are the general steps to follow:

1. Determine the product's tariff classification: The first step in calculating customs duties is to determine the product's tariff classification. This is done by consulting the EU's Common Customs Tariff (CCT), which lists the various product categories and their corresponding duty rates. You'll need to know the Harmonized System (HS) code for your product to determine its tariff classification.
2. Determine the product's value: The next step is to determine the product's value, which is usually the invoice value of the goods plus any additional costs, such as shipping and insurance.
3. Calculate the customs duty: Once you have determined the product's tariff classification and value, you can calculate the customs duty. The duty rate will depend on the product's tariff classification, its value, and the country of origin. You can use the EU's TARIC database to look up the duty rate for your product.
4. Calculate the VAT: In addition to customs duties, you will also need to calculate the VAT. The VAT rate in France is currently 20%, but there may be reduced rates for certain products, such as food and books.
5. Calculate any other taxes or fees: Depending on the product, there may be other taxes or fees to consider, such as excise duties or environmental taxes.

It's important to note that the customs clearance process and the calculation of duties and taxes can be complex. If you're unsure about how to calculate the duties and taxes for your specific import, it's always best to consult with a customs broker or freight forwarder like Siam Shipping. We can help you navigate the process and ensure that you're meeting all the necessary requirements.

How do I find the HS code ?

A system of classification for products used in international trade is the HS code (Harmonized System). It organizes goods into categories based on their nature and intended use, making the collection of statistical data and the customs clearance process easier. The HS system contains more than 5,000 different products, each of which is categorized using a distinct eight-digit number.

You can consult these websites to know the HS code of the Thailand products.

Calculating customs duties with the HS Code

Now that you have the HS code of your products, you can find the associated tariffs on the European customs website.

Here is a small illustrated guide to help you understand how to do it :

Enter your HS code and country of origin.

Then, consult taxes applicable to your product.

Does DocShipper charge customs duties ?

No, no commission is taken from Siam Shipping. As proof, we will send you all the official documents provided by Thai customs. We will only collect the customs clearance fees, as we declare your goods to the customs for you.

Docshipper offers you a complete service from sourcing to delivery of your goods to your door, including customs clearance services for all types of freight. We have agents all over the world to facilitate customs clearance procedures.

Procedures and customs contacts

Customs procedures are the administrative steps for declaring and submitting goods for inspection by customs authorities, including requirements for documentation, declaration, payment of taxes and duties, verification of compliance with standards and regulations, and dispute settlement. Customs contacts are the people or organizations responsible for communicating and cooperating with customs authorities on customs procedures, including importers and exporters, transport and logistics agents, customs brokers, company representatives and customs lawyers. It is important to have customs contacts to ensure that goods are cleared through customs efficiently.

Required documents

When importing goods from Germany to Thailand, several documents are typically required for customs clearance. These documents ensure compliance with regulations and facilitate the smooth entry of goods into Thailand. Here are the details of the required documents :

• Customs Form 99/1 (Import Declaration Form) : This form is prepared by the customs agent and includes essential details such as the importer's information, description of the goods, quantity, value, and other relevant information. It serves as a declaration of the imported goods to the Thai Customs Department.
• Commercial Invoice : A commercial invoice issued by the German supplier or exporter is necessary. It provides details such as the description of the goods, unit price, total value, payment terms, and other relevant information. The commercial invoice helps determine the customs value of the goods.
• Packing List : A packing list outlines the contents of each package being imported. It includes information such as the quantity, weight, and dimensions of the goods. The packing list assists customs officials in verifying the goods against the declared information.
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill : For sea shipments, a bill of lading is required, while an airway bill is necessary for air shipments. These documents serve as evidence of the contract of carriage and receipt of the goods. They contain information about the shipping line or airline, departure and arrival ports, and other transportation details.
• Certificate of Origin : Depending on the goods being imported, a certificate of origin may be required. This document verifies the country of origin of the goods, certifying that they are produced in Germany. The certificate of origin is necessary to determine eligibility for preferential tariff rates under trade agreements.
• Import Permits and Licenses : Certain goods may require import permits or licenses from relevant government agencies in Thailand. These permits and licenses are specific to the type of goods being imported and are obtained prior to importation. They ensure compliance with regulations related to health, safety, and specific industry requirements.
• Product Certifications : In some cases, specific products require certifications to meet quality, safety, or industry standards. These certifications may include ISO certifications, CE markings, or other relevant product-specific certifications. They demonstrate that the goods meet the necessary standards for importation into Thailand.
• Lab Test Reports : Lab test reports may be required for certain goods, particularly those that need to meet specific standards or regulations. These reports provide scientific evidence of the quality, composition, or safety of the imported goods.
• Special Permits : Depending on the nature of the goods, special permits may be required. For example, goods such as firearms, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or controlled substances may require additional permits or authorizations from relevant authorities.

What goods are prohibited from import into Germany ?

The import of certain goods into Germany is restricted or prohibited. Some of the goods that are generally prohibited from import include :

• Weapons and ammunition : Firearms, explosives, and certain types of weapons are strictly regulated and require special permits to import.
• Drugs and narcotics : Illegal drugs and narcotics, including recreational drugs and substances classified as controlled substances, are prohibited.
• Counterfeit goods : Importing counterfeit products, such as fake designer goods or pirated software, is illegal.
• Endangered species : Products made from endangered plants or animals, including ivory, certain types of wood, and exotic animal skins, are prohibited without the necessary permits.
• Protected cultural artifacts : Importing cultural artifacts, such as archaeological artifacts or artwork, without the proper authorization is prohibited.
• Hazardous materials : Certain hazardous substances, chemicals, or materials that pose a risk to human health or the environment are restricted or prohibited from import.
• Pornographic material : Importing pornographic material, especially involving minors or violent content, is generally prohibited.
• Certain agricultural products : Importing certain agricultural products, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, may be restricted due to phytosanitary regulations.

In conclusion, companies in all sectors have many opportunities thanks to the expansion of freight trade between Thailand and Germany. The strong economic and commercial ties between the two countries are maintained under current trade agreements. Although the various freight solutions that can be used to transport goods between Thailand and Germany, and the procedures required to implement them, may seem difficult and demanding, our knowledge can help you by guaranteeing optimum lead times and value for money. Contact our experts for a free quote within 24 hours.

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