Why did the coffee beans go on a cruise? Because they needed to take a ship! All kidding aside, mastering the maze of shipping goods between Thailand and the Philippines isn't simply a matter of crossing the South China Sea. It involves understanding the nuances of freight rates, anticipating transit times, and complying with complex customs regulations.

This guide is your roadmap through these winding paths. It'll provide an overview of the various types of freight options - from air to sea, from road to rail. It will offer insights into the customs clearance process, break down the duties and taxes involved, and equip you with tailored advice for businesses looking to make this transcontinental leap.

If the process still feels overwhelming, let DocShipper handle it for you! As an international freight forwarder, we turn your transport challenges into successful ventures, managing all stages of your shipping journey.

Table of Contents

Which are the different modes of transportation between Thailand and Philippines?

Deciding how to ship goods between Thailand and the Philippines? Air and sea freight are your top picks, given the geography and distances involved. Picture it like choosing between flying or taking a ferry for your vacation. Both options have their strengths - speed for air freight versus volume for sea freight. Your choice could be the difference between beating your competitors to the market and saving on shipping costs. So, think about your specific needs: do you have urgent deliveries or large loads? Let's delve deeper to uncover what fits you best.

How can Siam Shipping help?

Shipping goods between Thailand and the Philippines doesn't have to be complex. With DocShipper on your side, you can leave logistics worries behind. From customs clearance, administrative papers to choosing the perfect shipping method, we've got you covered. Want a hassle-free experience? Call our consultants or contact us for your free estimate within 24 hours!

     

Ocean shipping from and to Thailand

Sea freight from and to Thailand

Sea freight between Thailand and Philippines

Trade between Thailand and the Philippines is a significant part of their economic story, with the ocean as a vast highway connecting key industrial centers. The bustling ports of Bangkok and Manila, for instance, form crucial nodes of this network, serving as gateways for a diverse range of goods. Yes, sea freight may take its sweet time, but for high-volume cargo, it's an incredibly budget-friendly option.

However, this journey isn't always smooth sailing. The sea of international shipping is often stormy for many businesses. Understanding customs rules, arranging documents, and even something as simple as selecting the right container can lead to costly missteps. Here's where we mound the lighthouse. This guide will shine a light on these rough waters, giving you the tools to tackle these challenges head-on. From best practices to vital specifications, we're charting a course designed to make your sea freight experience between Thailand and the Philippines as effortless as possible. Welcome aboard!

Main shipping ports in Thailand

Laem Chabang Port

Location and Volume: Situated in Chon Buri Province, Laem Chabang is Thailand’s primary port serving the greater Bangkok area. It accommodates over 8 million TEUs annually, making it one of the busiest ports in Southeast Asia.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: The port's key trading partners are China, United States, Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia. The port's strategic location allows direct access to the Gulf of Thailand, positioning it as a crucial port for the region's trade.

Context for Businesses: If you're planning to tap into the thriving Southeast Asian markets, Laem Chabang Port's large capacity and strategic location make it central to your shipping strategy.

Port of Bangkok (Klong Toey Port)

Location and Volume: The Port of Bangkok is located along the Chao Phraya River in the capital city, handling over 1.5 million TEUs per year.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: Important trading partners include China, Japan, and several ASEAN countries. The port's urban location near the country's major industrial and population center adds to its strategic value.

Context for Businesses: For businesses targeting the bustling Bangkok market, the Port of Bangkok is ideal given its proximity to the city’s hub of commercial activity.

Songkhla Port

Location and Volume: Songkhla Port is situated in the southern part of Thailand, in Songkhla Province. It can handle approximately 5 million tons of cargo annually.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: The Port mainly trades with Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia. Part of its strategic focus lies in the handling of petroleum and petroleum products.

Context for Businesses: For businesses in the energy sector, or those looking to reach southern Thai and Malaysian markets, Songkhla Port offers a strategic advantage.

Map Ta Phut Port

Location and Volume: Map Ta Phut is located in Rayong Province and is Thailand's primary industrial port, with the capacity to handle over 2 million TEUs annually.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: The port is particularly significant for industries such as petrochemicals and natural gas. China and Japan are key international partners.

Context for Businesses: If your enterprise is in the energy sector or seeking an industrial goods hub, Map Ta Phut Port is a valuable part of your logistical planning.

Sattahip Commercial Port

Location and Volume: Located in Chon Buri Province, Sattahip Commercial Port is a vital component in transportation for the Eastern Economic Corridor and handles around 1 million tons of cargo per annum.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: This port serves as a significant gateway with ASEAN countries and China. Notably, it is neighboring the U-Tapao International Airport, making multi-modal logistics possible.

Context for Businesses: If your strategy involves integration of air and sea cargo transportation, Sattahip Commercial Port plays a crucial role in such logistics due to its proximity to an international airport.

Sri Racha Harbour

Location and Volume: Sri Racha Harbour is found within the Chon Buri Province, capable of handling about 4.2 million tons of goods each year.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: Sri Racha primarily deals with cargo like soybeans, maize, and wheat. Key trading partners include ASEAN countries, Japan, and South Korea.

Context for Businesses: For those seeking entry into Thailand's feed and food industries, Sri Racha Harbour's specialization in agricultural commodities might suggest its importance in your logistics plans.

Main shipping ports in Philippines

Manila International Container Port

Location and Volume: Situated in the Tondo district of Manila, this port holds significant relevance due to its high shipping volume at approximately 4.2 million TEUs annually, making it one of the busiest ports in the Philippines.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: With China, Japan, the U.S., and Singapore prominently contributing to its trade, this port stands as a central channel for commerce within the Asia-Pacific region.

Context for Businesses: If you're considering market expansion within Asia or North America, the Manila International Container Port might be an efficient pathway for your logistics, because of its dense network of shipping routes and robust infrastructure.

Subic Bay Freeport Zone

Location and Volume: Located on Subic Bay in the Philippines, this port is strategic due to its location that is almost equidistant from all major Asian capitals. Annually, the port handles around 56,277 TEUs.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: The port facilitates trade with major partner countries like South Korea, Japan, and Thailand. Its conversion to a freeport has increased regional trade activities and economic opportunities.

Context for Businesses: If you're seeking to benefit from duty-free imports and a strategic location, Subic Bay Freeport Zone might be an advantageous consideration for your logistics, given its proximity to Asian markets and its Freeport status.

Cebu Port

Location and Volume: Cebu Port, located in the city of Cebu, is a bustling transportation hub handling around 18,000 shipped containers monthly.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: Its key trading partners include China, Japan, and the U.S. Being the hub of the Visayas region's maritime trade, it plays a strategic role in the Philippine economy.

Context for Businesses: If your business aims to tap Southeast Asian markets, Cebu Port lies at a strategic geographical location that is known for rapid inter-island transportation and efficient operations, making it a convenient selection for your logistics.

Batangas Port

Location and Volume: Straddling the Batangas Bay, Batangas Port's annual volume stands at over 200,000 TEUs, thereby making it an important gateway for domestic and international trade.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: With trade partners primarily in Southeast Asia, this port stands as a prime alternative to Manila's ports, providing routes that are strategically essential for inter-island shipping.

Context for Businesses: Batangas Port's connections to major Southeast Asian hubs and its capacity for bulk and containerized cargo could be critical if your shipping strategy involves local or regional markets in the area.

Davao Port

Location and Volume: Situated in Davao del Sur, the port handles around 37,000 TEUs annually, emerging as a crucial player in Mindanao’s industrial growth.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: Its primary trading partners include countries across the Asia-Pacific region, offering a gateway to business interests in the Southern and Central Mindanao regions.

Context for Businesses: If your shipping requirements involve the Mindanao regions, tapping into the Davao Port could provide you with a strategic advantage because of its fast-growing infrastructure and direct routes to major Asian ports.

Iloilo Port

Location and Volume: Located in the Panay Island region, this port handles over 1,000 ships annually and plays a vital role in local maritime trade.

Key Trading Partners and Strategic Importance: The port connects directly with key markets in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, making it strategically important for local shipping in these areas.

Context for Businesses: If your business strategy involves expansion in the Visayas and Mindanao markets, Iloilo Port may offer an efficient means for your logistics, with its strong inter-island shipping network and fiscal incentives.

Unlock hassle-free shipping

Unsure about choosing between consolidation or full allotment for your Thailand-Philippines shipping? DocShipper demystifies this predicament. Our ocean freight experts weigh crucial factors like your cargo size, cost considerations, and shipping timescales to propose the most efficient route. With years of industry experience, we make international shipping challenge-free for businesses. Let us help you pick the most suitable method. Reach out to us for a free estimation of your shipping plan today!

     

How long does sea freight take between Thailand and Philippines?

The average shipping time between Thailand and the Philippines by sea freight can be quite variable. Tracking transit times in the world of freight shipping involves a mixture of considerations. Specific ports of departure and arrival, weight, and the nature of goods can all influence the timeline. For a tailored quote and precise transit time detail, it's beneficial to connect with a freight forwarder like DocShipper.

Keeping this in mind, here's a provisional matrix for sea freight times between key ports in both nations. Note: For the exact transit times, please reach out to a freight forwarder.

Thailand Port Philippines Port Average Transit Time
Port of Laem Chabang Port of Manila 6 days
Port of Bangkok Subic Bay Port 7 days
Port of Map Ta Phut Davao Sasa Wharf 7–9 days
Port of Sattahip Port of Cebu 13 days

 

How much does it cost to ship a container between Thailand and Philippines?

Deciphering the cost to ship a container between Thailand and Philippines can feel like a maritime mystery. Prices span a wide spectrum, all hinging on influences such as Point of Loading, Destination, carrier used, the nature of goods, and monthly market fluctuations. Nailing down an exact quote for ocean freight rates is like catching waves with a net – ever-changing and unique. Be reassured, our shipping specialists are adept at weathering these complexities. With careful calculation and an in-depth understanding of the shipping cost landscape, we skillfully chart the most beneficial rates for your specific needs, quoting on a case-by-case basis. Optimizing your shipping venture is our mission, no matter the waters we must traverse.

Special transportation services

Out of Gauge (OOG) Container

Definition: An OOG container is a special shipping container, equipped to handle Out of Gauge cargo, meaning goods that exceed regular container dimensions.
Suitable for: Large equipment and machinery, over-sized vehicles, big infrastructure components such as windmills or propellers.
Examples: Constructive materials, large machinery for farms or factories, long pipes or beams.
Why it might be the best choice for you: If your business handles items that can't be accommodated within the parameters of standard containers, then the OOG container is ideal. Its adaptability makes shipping large-sized goods from Thailand to the Philippines much easier.

Break Bulk

Definition: Break bulk is the method of shipping goods individually or in batches, not inside containers. These goods are loaded, shipped, and unloaded separately.
Suitable for: Cargo that cannot be put into containers due to their weight, size or quantity.
Examples: Equipment, timber, paper reels, steel products.
Why it might be the best choice for you: This traditional method of packing offers an effective solution for large or heavy goods. If standard-box shipping doesn't serve your needs, Break bulk could be the key to safe and efficient transport.

Dry Bulk

Definition: Dry bulk refers to the transportation of homogenous, loose cargo load in larger quantities, such as grains, coal, or sand.
Suitable for: Sandbox materials, grains, coal, cement, minerals.
Examples: Grains from Thailand’s farming industry, mined minerals and construction materials.
Why it might be the best choice for you: If your company deals with commodities in large quantities, dry bulk shipping can provide a cost-effective and efficient solution for your transit needs.

Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro)

Definition: A Ro-Ro vessel is a ship with built-in ramps that permits vehicles to be driven on and off the ship, known as roll-on/roll-off.
Suitable for: Cars, trucks, semi-trailer trucks, trailers, and railroad cars.
Examples: New and used vehicles, heavy machinery on wheels.
Why it might be the best choice for you: If your business involves shipping drivable vehicles or wheeled machinery, the Ro-Ro method is the best route from Thailand to the Phillipines as it ensures safe and easy loading and unloading.

Reefer Containers

Definition: Reefer containers are refrigerated containers, used for shipping goods that need to be transported at certain temperature-controlled conditions.
Suitable for: Fresh produce, frozen goods, pharmaceuticals, and other perishables.
Examples: Dairy products, fruits, seafood, medicine.
Why it might be the best choice for you: If your business revolves around perishables or temperature-sensitive products, ensuring they remain fresh during transit is crucial. Reefer containers maintain a constantly chilled environment to ensure your goods arrive at their destination in prime condition.

At DocShipper, we prioritize your shipping needs and strive to deliver the most effective and efficient solutions. The right shipping option depends largely on the type of cargo you have. If you need help deciding the best option for your needs, we invite you to contact us for a free shipping quote in less than 24 hours. Let's streamline your logistics together.

Air freight from and to Thailand

Air freight from and to Thailand

Air freight between Thailand and Philippines

When shipping goods between Thailand and the Philippines, many businesses discover that air freight is a true game-changer. Picture the pace of a sprinter zipping down a racetrack - that's the speed air freight offers you. This method promises timeliness and reliability, akin to your trusty alarm clock ringing every morning without fail. It's a great fit for small, high-value shipments - like transporting the latest premium smartphones, where time is crucial and the value high.

Yet, even in a race, the quickest runner might trip if they're not careful. In the air freight world, these are common, costly mistakes that shippers trip over. Ever cut an apple in half? The heavier half tends to sink in water - same with your shipment. It's not about physical weight only, but volumetric weight too, and using the wrong weight will upset your price estimates. These and other air freight gotchas can weigh down your profit margins, but our guide will help lighten the load.

Air Cargo vs Express Air Freight: How should I ship?

Choosing the right shipping option between Thailand and the Philippines can feel like spinning a globe and hoping for the best. Put simply, air cargo utilizes space in regular airlines, while express air freight speeds up delivery by commandeering an entire dedicated airplane. But which one aligns best with your specific business needs? Let's unpack the details and help you make an informed choice.

Should I choose Air Cargo between Thailand and Philippines?

If you're shipping a modest quantity, say above 100/150 kg (220/330 lbs), Air cargo could serve your needs well between Thailand and the Philippines. Many businesses trust prominent airlines like Thai Airways and Philippine Airlines thanks to their cost-effectiveness and dependability, although fixed timings might result in longer transit durations. Yet, the added reliability and freedom from issues like congestion at sea ports often justify the extra transit time. Weighing these aspects, air cargo might be an effective choice fitting your budget and urgency.

top global air freight companies in Thailand

Should I choose Express Air Freight between Thailand and Philippines?

Express Air Freight, operated by firms such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL, uses dedicated cargo planes that only carry shipments, promising faster transit times. If your cargo is under 1 CBM or weighs 100/150 kg, compared to regular air and sea freight, it presents a quick and efficient solution. It's suited if your shipment is time-sensitive or has high-value contents needing swift and secure transit from Thailand to Philippines. So, if speed and security are crucial for your delivery, this might be your best choice.

Top global courier express companies in Thailand

How long does air freight take between Thailand and Philippines?

On average, air freight shipping between Thailand and Philippines takes approximately 1 to 3 days. However, keep in mind that transit times can greatly vary depending on the specific airports involved, the weight of your shipment, and the nature of the goods being transported. For accurate timing and personalized advice tailored to your shipping needs, you are encouraged to consult a specialized freight forwarder like DocShipper.

What is the difference between volumetric and gross weight?

Gross weight relates to the actual physical weight of a shipment, measured in kilograms. On the other hand, volumetric weight, also in kilograms, reflects the amount of space a package occupies in an aircraft.

To calculate gross weight in air cargo, it's straightforward: simply weigh the package.

For instance, if you have a box that weighs 80 kg, in pounds that’s around 176 lbs.

Volumetric weight is calculated differently: it's based on the package’s dimensions. The standard formula is 'Length x Width x Height in centimeters / 6000' in the case of air cargo, while express air freight services usually use 5000 in the divisor. For example, if you are shipping a box with dimensions of 50 cm x 60 cm x 70 cm, the volumetric weight for air cargo is around 35 kg (or 77 lbs), while for express air freight it would be 42 kg (or approx. 93 lbs).

These figures matter because freight charges are primarily based on whichever is higher: the volumetric or gross weight. Why? Because both weight and space are crucial assets in the shipping industry - an airline has to consider not only how heavy a shipment is, but also how much space it occupies in their aircraft. Therefore, being equipped with this knowledge helps you optimize your packaging, eventually reducing potentially escalating shipping costs.

Door to Door Transport Thailand

Door to door transport from and to Thailand

Door to door between Thailand and Philippines

Have you considered door-to-door shipping for your Thailand to Philippines route? This method simplifies international shipping by handling everything from pickup to delivery at the destination. It's a time-saver with straightforward costs, proving invaluable for businesses seeking efficiency. Plus, it can be quite cost-effective for certain cargo types. Intrigued? Let's dive in!

Overview – Door to Door

Unravel the complexities of shipping from Thailand to the Philippines with our comprehensive door-to-door service. Opting for this solution means you hand over shipping hassles to us and relax: logistical jargon, confusing tariffs, administrative conundrums, all taken care of. However, weigh the higher costs against handling the headaches yourself. Most clients at DocShipper agree, they prefer a stress-free choice. Door-to-door: the ideal blend of convenience and efficiency, expressly designed for your peace of mind.

Why should I use a Door to Door service between Thailand and Philippines?

Wondering how to ride out the stormy seas of international logistics? Take a deep breath, and hop on to the 'Door to Door service' lifeboat, your beacon of convenience from Thailand to the Philippines.

1. One-stop-shop Solution: Door to Door service eliminates multiple points of contact. We handle your goods right from pick-up in Thailand, through customs clearance, right up to delivery in the Philippines. One vendor, one contract, one less worry on your plate.

2. Alleviates Logistic Stress: Imagine sipping on your favorite drink, as we navigate the rough waves of shipping logistics for you. That's Door to Door service for you - we handle the nitty-gritty so you can focus on your core business.

3. Timely Delivery: Urgent shipment? Door to Door service is like your logistics genie. We coordinate with all parties and ensure your goods arrive in the Philippines just when you need them. No more time zone juggling or missed deadlines.

4. Specialized Care for Complex Cargo: Whether you're shipping delicate glassware or bulky machinery, Door to Door service provides specialized handling. We treat your goods like our own, ensuring they arrive in perfect shape.

5. Complete Convenience: No more tracking your shipment's progress across multiple channels. We handle the full shipping cycle, trucking included, from Thailand to your final destination in the Philippines. Sit back and enjoy the ride.

So, are you still contemplating wading through logistics yourself or ready to float stress-free with Door to Door service? The choice seems pretty clear, doesn't it?

DocShipper – Door to Door specialist between Thailand and Philippines

Ease your shipping concerns with DocShipper's all-inclusive door-to-door service from Thailand to the Philippines. We manage every step from packaging to transport including handling customs and choosing the optimal shipping method. You'll correspond with a dedicated Account Executive, providing a personalized, hassle-free experience. Reach out for a complimentary estimate within 24 hours or a no-cost consultation with our expert advisors. Trust your cargo with DocShipper- we're proficient, well-equipped, and ready to assist.

Customs clearance and broker services Thailand

Customs Clearance Thailand

Customs clearance in Philippines for goods imported from Thailand

Customs clearance, a critical facet of global trade, involves the preparing and submitting of documents to facilitate the import and export of goods. This critical process for shipping goods from Thailand to the Philippines is complex and littered with potential pitfalls. Hidden costs can arise, and misunderstandings about duties, taxes, quotas, and licenses might leave your goods stranded in customs. To avoid setbacks, businesses need to fully grasp these integral elements, and our upcoming sections will delve deeper into them. At DocShipper, we manage this comprehensive process for any goods, anywhere. Remember, to request an estimate for your project, we’ll need the origin and value of your goods, plus the HS Code. With these in hand, our team can make your anticipation and budgeting hassle-free and precise.

How to calculate duties & taxes when importing from Thailand to Philippines?

Stepping into the world of international trade comes with its own fascinating blend of regulations and calculations. As a crucial part of cross-border shipping, estimating the duties and taxes when importing goods from Thailand to the Philippines is a process involving several key variables.

Primarily, you need to arm yourself with information about the country of origin (where your goods were produced or manufactured), the Harmonized System (HS) Code that classifies your product for customs purposes, the Customs Value (the cost of the goods as appraised by the customs), the Applicable Tariff Rate, and other possible taxes and fees depending on the product in question.

As the first step in this process, turn your focus to understanding the country of origin. It's crucial to identify where the goods were manufactured or produced, as this begins the foundation of your customs calculation journey.

Step 1 - Identify the Country of Origin

Step 1, knowing your product's Country of Origin, lays the groundwork for smooth importing! Here are five reasons why.

Reason one: Import policies hinge on the Country of Origin. Knowing it streamlines your customs dealings.
Reason two: Correct identification prevents sudden surprises, like increased duties or unexpected restrictions.
Reason three: Country of Origin serves as your compass for navigating Free Trade Agreements, including the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) between Thailand and the Philippines, which grants certain tariff relaxations.
Four: It prepares you for possible quota limitations within AFTA.
Lastly, reason five: Some products have specific origin-base restrictions, like drugs or wildlife items.

Familiarize yourself with the details of AFTA, and remember, an error in declaring could lead to product seizures or legal problems. Trust us, you don't want that!

Know your Country of Origin; eliminate headaches later on. It's your first step toward successful importing!

Step 2 - Find the HS Code of your product

The Harmonized System Code, or HS Code, is a standardized system of numbers and names to classify traded products internationally. It is managed by the World Customs Organization and enables countries to perform customs processing more efficiently and consistently. The code functions as an integral part of international trade, ensuring the correct duties and taxes are applied to goods, determining if any trade agreements apply, and satisfying the documentation requirements for shipping.

Should you need to find the HS Code for your product, the simplest method would be to inquire directly with your supplier. They are often conversant with the products they trade and relevant regulations, including the appropriate HS Codes.

On the other hand, if you need to identify the code yourself, worry not. Let's provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough on using an HS lookup tool:

1. Access the Harmonized Tariff Schedule on the following link: HS Lookup Tool
2. Enter the name of your product in the search bar.
3. Browse the 'Heading/Subheading' column where the HS code for your product will be listed.

Although the process is straightforward, it's crucial to note the importance of accuracy in selecting the correct HS Code for your product. Misclassification can lead to delays in shipping and may even incur fines due to incorrect customs declarations. Make sure you verify the HS Code for your products before importing or exporting.

Let's provide a visual guide to help you comprehend HS codes better. Explore the attached infographic showing you how to read an HS code.

How to read an HS code

Step 3 - Calculate the Customs Value

Consider the 'Customs Value' as the magic number that governs how much you'll need to pay to get your Thailand goods into the Philippines. It's different from the just the product price - the customs authorities are more interested in the total spend from your pocket to the product landing at a Philippine port. To calculate, you've to sum three things: the price of the goods, the cost of international shipping, and the insurance cost. Sounds a bit hard? Here's an example:

Let's say you bought goods worth $1000, shipping cost was $200 and the insurance was $50. Your customs value wouldn't be simply $1000, but the total CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), which is $1000+$200+$50 = $1250.

That's what you'll base your calculation on!

Step 4 - Figure out the applicable Import Tariff

An import tariff is a tax imposed on goods brought into a country from abroad. In the Philippines, these tariffs are categorized into three types: Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates, Preferential Rates, and Special Rates.

To find the applicable tariff for your product being imported from Thailand, you'll need to consult the Philippine Tariff Commission's Tariff Finder. Here's a quick guide:

1. Visit the Philippine Tariff Finder website.
2. Select 'Thailand' as the country of origin and enter the Harmonized System (HS) code tied to your product.
3. Review the duties and taxes applied to your product under 'Duty Rates'.

Let's say you're importing wooden furniture (HS Code 9403.60) from Thailand, with CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) costs amounting to $10,000 USD. After entering these details on the Tariff Finder, a 10% MLF rate is determined. Your import duties would therefore be 0.10 x $10,000 = $1,000 USD. Having this information at your fingertips simplifies your budgeting considerations and ensures you abide by the local customs regulations.

Step 5 - Consider other Import Duties and Taxes

When it comes to duties and taxes, the unsung players beyond the standard tariff rate are crucial to note. For instance, depending on the product's nature and its country of origin, you may encounter extra import duties. These may include excise duty or anti-dumping taxes, which aim to protect domestic industries from unfair competition.

For example, if you import a vehicle from Thailand to the Philippines, you might be subject to an excise duty. Just keep in mind that this is a hypothetical, and actual rates may vary.

Most importantly, don't overlook the Value Added Tax (VAT). The VAT is based on the product's Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value plus duty. Suppose the CIF value of a shipment is $10,000 and the duty is $1,000, making a total of $11,000. If the VAT rate is 12%, you'd have to pay an additional $1,320.

Understanding these additional costs can help prevent any unwanted surprises and enable a more accurate calculation of your total import costs. They may seem complex, but by breaking them down, we can simplify their impact on your shipping needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to a customs professional to get precise figures and guidance for your situation.

Step 6 - Calculate the Customs Duties

Calculating customs duties for your imports to the Philippines from Thailand can be tricky but knowing the formula can ease your strain. The Customs Value, VAT, Anti-Dumping Duties, and Excise Duties are the variables to consider.

If you're only contending with customs duties, add the freight cost and insurance to the price of the product, multiply by the duty percentage, and voila! For instance, if the product costs $300, with freight and insurance of $50, and a 10% duty rate, your customs duty will be $35.

When VAT comes into play alongside customs duties, add the customs duty to the sum of freight, insurance, and product price and multiply by the VAT rate. If the VAT rate is 15%, considering the same example, the new sum ($385) will result in VAT of $57.75.

For a complex AT, VAT, anti-dumping, and excise duty scenario, add on the anti-dumping and excise duties to arrive at the final customs dues. If the additional duties are 5% for anti-dumping and 2% for excise, considering our previous sum plus VAT ($442.75), your final customs bill will be $464.49.

Interested in hassle-free customs clearance? DocShipper offers comprehensive customs clearance services worldwide, ensuring you don't overpay. Request a free quote in less than 24h and let us take care of the complexities for you.

Does DocShipper charge customs fees?

Indeed, navigating the maze of custom charges can be tricky. As a customs broker in Thailand and the Philippines, DocShipper doesn't levy customs duties. The costs you face are the customs clearance fees, a separate entity charged by us, similar to any customs broker. Remember, customs duties and taxes go directly to the government, not your broker. We make this transparent by providing you documents from the customs office, a testament that you're only paying what's due to the government. That's the DocShipper difference, navigating customs isn't so daunting after all!

Contact Details for Customs Authorities

Required documents for customs clearance

No matter where you're shipping, customs can be a maze of documents! Let's simplify things - this guide will delve into the essentials - Bill of Lading, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and Documents of Conformity (CE standard). Together, we'll make sure nothing trips you up at the clearance stage. Stay tuned!

Bill of Lading

If you're shipping goods from Thailand to the Philippines, your Bill of Lading (BOL) is like a golden ticket. It's irreplaceable during the customs clearance process as proof of ownership transition. A little tip – opting for an electronic (telex) release can save you time and paperwork, having your BOL available online and instantly transferable. For those using air freight, you'll require an Air Waybill (AWB), serving the same vital function of the BOL in the air. Both documents are your best friends in customs, mitigating potential hold-ups. Ensure you always have them ready and accurately filled out. After all, it's the details that can make or break your smooth shipping process.

Packing List

In navigating the shipping route between Thailand and the Philippines, your Packing List is your ultimate map. Not just any list, this document details every individual item within your shipment, right from garments to machinery parts. Accurate packing lists are the passport for your goods, vital for both sea and air freight, allowing them to clear customs smoothly.

Consider an example: if a Thai auto parts manufacturer sends a batch of 500 car bumpers to the Philippines, the Packing List must precisely indicate this. Inaccuracies risk delays, extra cost, and trust issues. Hence ensure your Packing List is as accurate as a surgeon's scalpel - it's the path to sail or fly your goods seamlessly across borders. Remember, in international shipping, precision and transparencies are not just virtues, but necessities.

Commercial Invoice

Crafting an accurate Commercial Invoice is crucial for smooth customs clearance when shipping from Thailand to the Philippines. This document holds a detailed downloadable record of the transaction, capturing essential information like product description, HS codes, origin and destination details, name and address of consignor and consignee, and total value. Slip-ups here can lead to lengthy delays at customs, so harmony with other shipping documents is paramount. Real-life example? Let's say you're sending ceramic sculptures valued at 30,000 Baht - ensure the value tally across all paperwork. A pro tip for you: implicate both English and local languages in documentation to cater to diverse customs officers, averting potential confusion in your shipping journey.

Certificate of Origin

Tackling Thailand to the Philippines shipment? The Certificate of Origin (CoO) is your steadfast ally. This document isn't just to mention the country where your goods are made, but can also unlock preferential customs duty rates, making your shipping journey more cost-effective. Consider this: if you're exporting auto parts manufactured in Thailand, presenting a valid CoO can lead to considerable savings, thanks to the free trade agreements between the two countries. Get your CoO right, and you not only verify your product's nationality but might just streamline your shipping budget significantly.

Get Started with Siam Shipping

Navigating customs between Thailand and the Philippines can be stressful and complex. With DocShipper, you're in experienced hands. Our full-service logistics manage every aspect of customs clearance for you. No more paperwork, no more confusion - just smooth, hassle-free shipping. Ready to simplify your international shipping? Contact us now and receive a free quote within just 24 hours. Let's make shipping easy.

     

Prohibited and Restricted items when importing into Philippines

Don't get caught off guard by surprise regulations! Let's dive into the sometimes tricky waters of what you can and can't send to the Philippines. Understanding these rules can save your business from costly delays or legal issues. Stay tuned!

Are there any trade agreements between Thailand and Philippines

Yes, your business operations between Thailand and the Philippines could indeed benefit from the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA). This agreement's objective is to reduce trade barriers and promote economic integration. Currently, both countries are working towards enhancing connectivity, with endeavors like the Trilateral Highway project potentially simplifying future logistics. Remember, these can substantially influence your customs duties and shipping procedures. Stay updated, and you'll offer your clients competitive pricing and efficient logistics!

Thailand - Philippines trade and economic relationship

The trade relationship between Thailand and the Philippines boasts a rich history that has significantly evolved over centuries. Today, this relationship involves a vibrant mix of numerous key sectors including electronics, chemicals, automotive, and the ever-popular food and beverage industry. One major milestone was the ASEAN Free Trade Area's establishment in 1992, propelling the bilateral trade relationship forward and leading to astonishly increased trade volumes.

Statistics verify this upward trajectory. Thai direct investments in the Philippines reached nearly $81 million in 2020, making Thailand one of the top ASEAN investors in the country, primarily focusing on manufacturing and services. Throughout the last decade, the value of goods traded between the nations witnessed a steady rise, with $7.2 billion worth of bilateral trade recorded in 2019, a compelling illustration of their interdependent economic ties. Despite the current economic challenges, these shared efforts point to a quest for ongoing economic synergy and a prosperous future.

Your Next Step with Siam Shipping

Undecided about regulatory requirements or freight options from Thailand to the Philippines? Let DocShipper demystify the process. With our the expertise in customs clearance and our efficient logistics solutions, avoid common pitfalls and ensure your cargo arrives safely and on time. Contact us today to simplify your shipping experience!

     

Additional logistics services

Explore more than just shipping with us! Dive into our additional logistics services that streamline your supply chain process end-to-end, transforming inconvenience into convenience. Discover how DocShipper simplifies logistics for you.