Bonded Warehouse a Business Opportunity for Importers and Exporters.

          Establishing a bonded warehouse requires official authorization from the Customs Department. The process involves several structured steps.

Step 1 : Preliminary Qualification Check

• The facility must be secure, accessible for inspection, and properly managed.

• Inventory control systems such as barcodes, CCTV, and stock reports must be in place.

• The warehouse must have a clearly defined purpose (e.g., storage before export or for future production use).

• Goods cannot be used domestically while in the bonded warehouse.

Step 2 : Prepare Documentation

Key documents include.

• Application form (as prescribed by the Customs Department)

• Copy of company registration certificate and memorandum of association

• Warehouse floor plan (showing access points and surveillance systems)

• Details of inventory control and security systems

• List of products and goods to be stored

• Environmental impact assessment (if applicable)

• Lease agreement (if the premises are rented)

Step 3 : Submit Application to the Customs Department

• Submit the complete application package to the area customs office where the warehouse is located.

Step 4 : Site Inspection

• Customs officers will conduct a physical inspection to assess security, inventory control, and compliance with legal standards.

Step 5 : Approval and Licensing

• If the location passes inspection and documents are complete, an official license will be granted. The warehouse can then begin operations according to customs procedures.

Step 6 : Post-Approval Operations

• Goods Declaration: Must notify Customs every time goods are brought into the warehouse.
• Maintain Stock Register: Record all inbound/outbound movements, balances, dates, and item numbers.
• Submit Reports: Monthly or quarterly reports as required by Customs.
• Customs Inspection: The warehouse must be available for inspection at any time.

 

Note :

• Goods may be stored for a maximum of two years, unless an extension is approved.

• Failure to pay taxes or move goods within the permitted timeframe may result in confiscation.

• To terminate the bonded warehouse operation, prior notice must be submitted to Customs, and all inventory must be accounted for.

          

Types of Bonded Warehouses​

          Bonded warehouses are categorized based on their function and usage. Each type serves specific business needs and is regulated by the Customs Department.

1. General Warehouse: Store goods awaiting customs clearance or re-export. Open to various importers; duties are deferred until goods are released.

2. Private Warehouse: For a single operator’s use. Stores only the owner’s goods; not open to others.

3. Manufacturing Warehouse: For imported raw materials awaiting processing or assembly. Goods are processed and then exported or sold.

4. Exhibition Warehouse: For imported goods intended for trade shows or events. Goods may be displayed without immediate tax payment.

5. Export Warehouse: For domestic goods awaiting export. Allows consolidation and preparation for export without immediate customs processing.

6. Public Warehouse (Government-Owned): Operated by government agencies or state enterprises. Provides storage for imported goods under state control (e.g., port authority or state warehouses).

          Bonded warehouses play a crucial role in supporting Thailand’s trade, manufacturing, and logistics sectors. Choosing the right type of bonded warehouse tailored to your business model enhances operational efficiency, improves inventory management, and significantly reduces costs. For companies engaged in international trade, a bonded warehouse is not just a storage facility—it's a strategic asset that drives business success.