Customs regulations when moving to Thailand Documents, Thai ID, Exceptions, Deadlines
Move securely – in compliance with the law with DACHSER & KOLB
When you emigrate to Thailand, you want to settle in—not get bogged down in customs and administrative hassles. It is crucial that your documents, residence status, and packing list are properly prepared. Then your entry, customs clearance, and delivery of your belongings will run smoothly and without unnecessary additional costs.
Thailand customs when moving – a brief overview
Anyone emigrating to Thailand must ensure that customs clearance is handled correctly – otherwise you may face delays, high additional payments, or even the confiscation of your removal goods.
- Used household goods can be imported duty-free and tax-free under clearly defined conditions (Thai returnees and foreigners with a valid 1-year visa + 1-year work permit/Smart Visa).
- The goods must be verifiably used (usually owned and used for more than 6 months).
- Your household goods must arrive in Thailand within 6 months of your first entry with the appropriate visa.
- Usually only one air and one sea freight shipment is allowed duty-free.
- Usually only one electrical appliance per category is accepted duty-free; duplicate appliances are subject to customs duties.
Related topics
- Emigrating to Thailand? → All the important information!
- Applying for a visa! → What you need to know.
- Bringing your pet? → Import regulations
Advantages of early customs clearance and information
Avoiding delays
By preparing thoroughly and in good time, you can ensure that your belongings pass through customs without any problems and that there are no unnecessary delays.
Cost control
Those who find out about customs duties and other costs in advance can avoid unexpected expenses and plan better.
Smooth operation
Early registration and customs clearance help speed up the entire moving process, so you don't have to deal with last-minute problems.
Avoiding stress
Getting everything done early minimizes stress during the move. You will have enough time to prepare all the necessary documents correctly and concentrate on the move.
Better logistics planning
Early customs clearance allows for better coordination of relocation logistics, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and according to schedule, with no surprises.
Checklist: Required customs documents for moving to Thailand
To ensure smooth customs clearance, we require the following documents from you:
✓ Original passport: The passport must be valid.
✓ Original identity card: Only required for Thai citizens (Thai ID card).
✓ Visa (for foreigners): A valid non-immigrant visa or a residence visa that is valid for at least one year.
✓ Work permit: A work permit that is also valid for at least one year is often the basis for duty-free status.
✓ Reference number for the Smart Visa: This number is mandatory for Smart Visa holders.
✓ Detailed packing list/inventory list: A complete, numbered list of all items (if possible in English), stating the quantity, value, and contents of the boxes.
✓ Bill of lading or air waybill: Your freight forwarder's shipping document.
✓ Important: All documents must be valid and available in the original at the time of arrival of the removal goods.
You should definitely avoid these mistakes when dealing with customs for your move to Thailand.
Common mistakes that cost time and money
- Incomplete inventory list
- Incorrect customs office/opening hours
- New goods declared as removal goods
- Vehicle without documentation
- Medications without receipts
Import bans & permits
Alcohol, tobacco, food
Import licenses and special permits apply.
Weapons and ammunition
Strictly prohibited.
Plants and plant seeds
Strictly prohibited.
Buddha statues, heads
Particularly sensitive, just like fine art objects.
Medicines & Medical Devices
Often subject to approval or prohibited.
Shortwave radios/radio equipment
Strictly prohibited.
Gold and silver
Especially in the form of bars or larger quantities.
How to manage customs when moving to Thailand
A professionally organized relocation and customs process ideally follows a clear plan:
Clarify residence status
Obtain the appropriate visa and, if relevant, work permit/smart visa before your belongings are shipped. You can find more information about visas for Thailand here.
Prepare customs documents
Prepare passports, visas, Thai ID, packing list, shipping documents, and any special permits in full.
Define packing strategy
Only take items that fall into the category of "used household goods & personal effects." Do not "hide" new goods in the container.
Control the timing of the shipment
Plan your shipment so that the freight arrives after you enter the country—but within the permissible time window for duty-free import.
Orchestrate customs clearance
With an experienced moving company such as DACHSER & KOLB, customs formalities can be consolidated, risks minimized, and the release of your belongings expedited.
Your advantages when moving to Thailand with DACHSER & KOLB
Competent customs clearance
We take care of all the organization and formalities with the Thai customs authorities.
Individual advice
We take the time to listen to your wishes and requirements and draw up a detailed removal plan.
Transparent planning
Our free inspection and moving price calculator give you a clear overview of the costs.
Experienced specialists
From planning to implementation, we rely on qualified employees who will ensure you have a stress-free move.
How DACHSER & KOLB supports you with customs clearance for your move to Thailand
DACHSER & KOLB is your reliable partner for a stress-free move to Thailand. We take care of all customs clearance for you and ensure that all formalities are handled correctly. Our services include:
Provision of forms
We provide you with all relevant customs forms and other documents required for the customs process.
Advice on the documents
We offer detailed advice and help you compile all the documents required for customs clearance, such as deregistration certificates, registrations, and inventory lists.
Granting of power of attorney
If you would like us to handle customs clearance on your behalf, we will provide you with a power of attorney that allows us to act on your behalf.
Downloads for customs when moving to Thailand
FAQ - What should you bear in mind when it comes to customs clearance for a move to Thailand?
What customs regulations apply to my move to Thailand?
Used household and personal items are exempt from customs duties if you are either a Thai returnee (having spent at least 12 months abroad) or a foreign expat with a valid 1-year visa and 1-year work permit or Smart Visa. The shipment must arrive within 6 months of your entry and the goods must be verifiably used.
What documents do I need for duty-free import of my household goods?
Key documents include your original passport with visa, Thai ID (if applicable), 1-year work permit or Smart Visa reference number, detailed packing list, shipping documents (B/L or AWB), and an importer's declaration. Without these documents, duty-free clearance is practically impossible.
Who can import household goods into Thailand duty-free?
- Thai citizens who have lived abroad for more than 12 months and whose passports show clear entry/exit stamps.
- Foreign citizens with a 1-year work permit issued in Thailand and a matching non-immigrant or smart visa. Other visa categories (tourist, retirement, etc.) are not usually eligible for duty exemption.
What items are prohibited when moving to Thailand?
Prohibited or highly critical items include weapons, ammunition, narcotics, pornographic content, shortwave radios, many medical devices, Buddha statues and parts without permission, gold and silver, plants, hazardous materials, and protected animals. These items should not appear in your moving goods.
Can I bring several televisions or other electrical appliances with me duty-free?
No. Thai customs generally assumes only one duty-free device per category. If, for example, you have three televisions in your shipment, two of them will usually be subject to full customs duty. The same applies to other duplicate appliances (washing machines, refrigerators, etc.).
How are customs duties and taxes calculated if I do not receive customs exemption?
Thai customs will then classify your removal goods as normal imports. The basis for assessment is the CIF value (value of goods + transport + insurance). Depending on the product group, import duties and Thai VAT (currently 7%) will be levied on this. Electrical appliances, furniture, and luxury goods are subject to particularly high duties.
Can I take my car or motorcycle with me when I move to Thailand?
Formally, importation is possible, but in practice it is usually uneconomical. Very high customs duties and taxes are payable, and an import license from the Ministry of Commerce is also required, which is rarely granted. In most cases, it is more cost-effective to sell the vehicle in the country of origin and purchase a new one in Thailand.
What rules apply to pets when moving to Thailand?
Pets require a valid health certificate, up-to-date vaccinations, a microchip, and a pre-approved import permit. The animal must generally be at least 4 months old. Healthy animals are often not quarantined, but the decision is made by the relevant authorities at the airport. You can find more information here.
Contact us for a free consultation!
With customs clearance for moving to and from Thailand, DACHSER & KOLB ensures that your move is efficient, safe, and stress-free. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation!
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Sabrina Klier
Customer Service & Sales - AIR & SEA
