Q: "How do I ship my family's belongings to Bali? What are the costs, customs requirements, and best practices?"

Shipping personal belongings to Bali requires careful planning, proper documentation, and understanding Indonesian customs regulations. Here's your complete guide to getting your family's possessions to your new home safely and legally.

Should You Ship or Buy New?

Consider shipping if:

High-value items (furniture, electronics, artwork)
Sentimental items irreplaceable locally
Children's special belongings and toys
Professional equipment for work
Books and educational materials
Quality appliances that work on 220V

Consider buying new in Bali if:

Items readily available locally
Shipping costs exceed replacement value
Electrical items requiring 110V (US appliances)
Large, low-value items (basic furniture)
Items that may not survive tropical climate

Cost comparison examples:

Shipping a container: $3,000-8,000 USD
Furnishing 3-bedroom villa: $5,000-15,000 USD locally
Break-even point: Usually for valuable/sentimental items
Timeline: Shipping takes 6-12 weeks vs immediate local purchase

Shipping Options & Costs

Full Container Load (FCL)

20-foot container:

Volume: 28-30 cubic meters
Cost: $3,000-5,000 USD door-to-door
Good for: 2-3 bedroom household
Timeline: 6-8 weeks
Includes: Container, shipping, basic customs clearance

40-foot container:

Volume: 56-58 cubic meters
Cost: $4,000-7,000 USD door-to-door
Good for: 4+ bedroom household
Timeline: 6-8 weeks
Benefits: Better cost per cubic meter for large shipments

Less than Container Load (LCL)

Shared container space:

Minimum: Usually 1 cubic meter
Cost: $150-300 USD per cubic meter
Good for: Smaller shipments, selective items
Timeline: 8-12 weeks (consolidation delays)
Considerations: Higher risk of damage, delays

Air Freight

When to consider:

Urgent items: Needed immediately
High-value, low-volume: Electronics, documents
Time-sensitive: Work equipment, children's essentials

Costs:

Rate: $5-15 USD per kg
Minimum: Usually $200-500 USD
Timeline: 3-7 days
Restrictions: Size and weight limits

Express Services

DHL, FedEx, UPS:

Documents: $50-200 USD
Small packages: $100-500 USD
Weight limit: Usually 30-70kg
Timeline: 2-5 days
Tracking: Excellent visibility
Customs: Simplified process for small items

Recommended Shipping Companies

International Moving Companies

1. Crown Relocations ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Experience: 50+ years, Asia specialist
Services: Full-service door-to-door
Coverage: Worldwide to Indonesia
Cost: Premium pricing, $4,000-8,000 USD for container
Benefits: Excellent reputation, comprehensive insurance
Contact: Multiple global offices

2. Santa Fe Relocation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Specialization: International relocations
Services: Packing, shipping, customs clearance
Cost: $3,500-7,500 USD for full service
Benefits: Good customer service, reliable
Coverage: Major cities worldwide

3. Allied Pickfords ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Global network: Established worldwide
Experience: Extensive Indonesia experience
Cost: $3,000-6,500 USD for container
Services: Various service levels available
Benefits: Flexible options, good value

Regional Specialists

4. Seven Seas Worldwide ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Specialization: Expat relocations
Services: Both FCL and LCL
Cost: $2,500-5,500 USD competitive pricing
Benefits: Good for smaller shipments
Online: Easy online booking and tracking

5. Asian Tigers ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Regional focus: Asia-Pacific specialist
Experience: Strong Indonesia presence
Cost: $2,800-6,000 USD
Services: Professional packing and handling
Benefits: Local knowledge, competitive rates

Local Indonesian Clearing Agents

PT Indo Dharma Transport

Location: Jakarta and Bali
Services: Customs clearance, local delivery
Cost: $500-1,500 USD for customs services
Benefits: Local expertise, Indonesian regulations

PT Bali International Freight

Specialization: Bali imports
Services: Port handling, customs, delivery
Benefits: Bali-specific experience
Contact: +62 361 701234

Choosing the Right Company

Factors to consider:

Total cost: Including all fees and charges
Insurance coverage: Comprehensive protection
Reputation: Reviews from other expat families
Services included: Packing, customs, delivery
Experience: Indonesia-specific knowledge
Timeline: Realistic delivery estimates
Customer service: English-speaking support

Questions to ask:

"What's included in the quoted price?"
"What additional costs might arise?"
"How is insurance coverage calculated?"
"What's your experience with Indonesian customs?"
"Can you provide references from recent customers?"
"What happens if there are delays or damage?"

Indonesian Customs Regulations

Duty-Free Allowances

Personal effects allowance:

Used household goods: Duty-free if owned 1+ years
Personal clothing: No restrictions on used items
Books and documents: Generally duty-free
Artwork and antiques: May require special permits
Professional tools: Limited quantities allowed

Requirements for duty-free:

Ownership proof: Purchase receipts older than 1 year
Personal use: Items must be for personal/family use
Reasonable quantities: No commercial quantities
KITAS holder: Must have valid residence permit

Prohibited & Restricted Items

Completely prohibited:

Weapons and ammunition: No exceptions
Illegal drugs: Severe penalties
Pornographic materials: Broadly interpreted
Chinese traditional medicines: Many ingredients banned
Certain chemicals: Including some cleaning products

Restricted items requiring permits:

Electronics with radio transmitters: WiFi devices, radios
Medications: Prescription drugs need permits
Religious items: Some restrictions apply
Plant and animal products: Quarantine requirements
Professional equipment: Broadcasting, telecommunications

Items requiring special attention:

Laptops and phones: Usually OK but may be inspected
Books: Religious or political content scrutinized
DVDs/media: Content restrictions apply
Supplements: Many health supplements prohibited
Children's toys: Safety standards must be met

Customs Documentation

Required documents:

Packing list: Detailed inventory with values
Purchase receipts: For high-value items
KITAS: Valid residence permit
Passport: With Indonesian visa
Import declaration: Completed customs forms
Insurance documents: Shipping insurance
Photos: Of valuable items (recommended)

Packing list requirements:

Detailed descriptions: Not just "miscellaneous items"
Individual values: For each significant item
Total value: Must match insurance value
Condition: New vs used items clearly marked
Quantities: Exact numbers for each item type

Customs Inspection Process

What to expect:

Document review: Customs examines all paperwork
Physical inspection: Container may be opened and searched
Valuation assessment: Customs may question declared values
Duty calculation: If any duties/taxes apply
Payment processing: Any fees must be paid before release
Release authorization: Container cleared for delivery

Inspection probability:

Red lane: Detailed inspection (higher probability)
Green lane: Minimal inspection (lower probability)
Factors: Random selection, declared values, origin country

Packing & Preparation

Professional Packing Services

Benefits of professional packing:

Insurance coverage: Professional packing often required for claims
Proper materials: Export-quality packing materials
Experience: Knowledge of international shipping requirements
Efficiency: Faster than DIY packing
Liability: Company responsible for packing-related damage

Packing service costs:

Full service: $1,500-3,500 USD for 3-bedroom home
Partial service: $500-1,500 USD for selected items
Materials only: $300-800 USD
Supervision: $200-500 USD if you pack with their materials

DIY Packing Guidelines

Essential packing materials:

Export cartons: Stronger than regular boxes
Bubble wrap: For fragile items
Packing paper: Acid-free for wrapping
Foam peanuts: Void fill for boxes
Tape: High-quality sealing tape
Labels: Waterproof marking system

Packing best practices:

Inventory as you pack: Create detailed lists
Take photos: Before packing valuable items
Pack by room: Keep related items together
Heavy items: In smaller boxes
Fragile items: Extra padding and clear marking
Essential items: Pack separately for air freight

Special Item Considerations

Electronics:

Original boxes: Best protection if available
Anti-static materials: For sensitive components
Climate considerations: Humidity protection
Voltage differences: 220V vs 110V compatibility
Documentation: Keep receipts for customs

Artwork and valuables:

Professional crating: For valuable pieces
Climate control: Protection from humidity
Insurance valuation: Professional appraisal
Documentation: Provenance and ownership proof
Customs considerations: Cultural property restrictions

Children's items:

Comfort items: Pack securely but accessibly
School supplies: May be needed immediately
Toys: Check for safety compliance
Books: Educational materials usually duty-free
Clothing: Pack by size for growing children

Furniture:

Disassembly: Required for most pieces
Hardware storage: Keep screws and parts organized
Protection: Wrap surfaces against scratches
Climate considerations: Tropical humidity effects
Local availability: Compare replacement costs

Items to Ship vs Leave Behind

Definitely ship:

High-value electronics (if 220V compatible)
Sentimental items and family heirlooms
Children's special toys and comfort items
Professional equipment and tools
Quality furniture that fits your new home
Books, documents, and educational materials

Consider leaving behind:

Large appliances (refrigerators, washing machines)
Low-value furniture easily replaced
Heavy items with low value-to-weight ratio
Items not suited to tropical climate
US 110V electronics without dual voltage
Perishable or time-sensitive items

Ship separately by air:

Immediate necessities for first few weeks
Work equipment needed urgently
Children's school supplies and uniforms
Essential medications and prescriptions
Important documents and certificates
Comfort items for easier transition

Timeline & Process

12-16 Weeks Before Move

Initial planning:

Inventory assessment: Decide what to ship vs replace
Get quotes: Contact 3-5 moving companies
Research regulations: Understand prohibited items
Budget planning: Include all costs and contingencies
Insurance review: Check coverage options

Documentation preparation:

Gather receipts: For valuable items over 1 year old
Take photos: Document condition of valuables
Organize documents: Passport, KITAS, certificates
Create inventory: Preliminary list of items to ship

8-10 Weeks Before Move

Booking arrangements:

Choose moving company: Book services in advance
Confirm dates: Packing and pickup schedule
Arrange insurance: Comprehensive coverage
Document requirements: Finalize customs paperwork
Special arrangements: For valuable or fragile items

Preparation activities:

Declutter thoroughly: Donate or sell unwanted items
Use perishables: Consume food and consumables
Plan essentials: Items needed before shipment arrives
School transitions: Coordinate with children's needs

4-6 Weeks Before Move

Final preparations:

Confirm arrangements: All details with moving company
Prepare documentation: All required customs papers
Essential items: Pack carry-on and air freight items
Address changes: Notify relevant organizations
Utility arrangements: Coordinate disconnections

Packing preparations:

Materials delivery: If packing professionally
Space preparation: Clear areas for packing
Valuables security: Arrange special handling
Final inventory: Complete list for customs

Packing & Pickup Week

Professional packing:

Be present: Supervise packing process
Inventory verification: Check list as items are packed
Special instructions: Communicate handling requirements
Documentation: Sign off on inventory and condition
Final checks: Ensure nothing important forgotten

Container loading:

Supervision: Watch loading process if possible
Photo documentation: Take pictures of container loading
Seal verification: Ensure proper container sealing
Documentation: Receive all shipping documents
Contact information: Confirm communication channels

During Transit (6-12 Weeks)

Tracking and communication:

Regular updates: Stay in contact with shipping company
Document preparation: Organize customs clearance papers
Bali preparations: Arrange delivery logistics
Backup plans: Prepare for potential delays
Insurance claims: Report any transit damage immediately

Arrival & Delivery

Customs clearance:

Agent communication: Work with local customs agent
Document submission: Provide all required paperwork
Inspection coordination: Be available if needed
Payment processing: Handle any duties or fees
Release authorization: Obtain clearance for delivery

Delivery coordination:

Schedule delivery: Coordinate with your availability
Access preparation: Ensure delivery vehicle access
Unpacking services: Arrange if desired
Inventory check: Verify all items received
Damage assessment: Document any shipping damage

Post-delivery:

Insurance claims: File for any damaged items
Company feedback: Provide service review
Customs retention: Keep all customs documents
Settlement: Final payment if any balance due

Cost Breakdown & Budgeting

Comprehensive Cost Analysis

20-foot container example (door-to-door):

Ocean freight: $1,200-2,000 USD
Origin charges: $400-800 USD (pickup, documentation)
Destination charges: $600-1,200 USD (customs, delivery)
Insurance: $200-500 USD (based on declared value)
Customs duties: $0-1,000 USD (if applicable)
Packing services: $800-2,000 USD (if professional)
Total: $3,200-7,500 USD

Additional potential costs:

Storage fees: $50-150 USD per day if delays
Demurrage: $100-300 USD per day for container delays
Document fees: $100-300 USD for various certificates
Inspection fees: $200-500 USD if required
Weekend/holiday: Premium charges 25-50%

Insurance Options

Basic coverage (included):

Coverage: Usually $500-1,000 USD maximum
Scope: Very limited, major loss only
Deductible: Often high
Claims: Difficult to process

Comprehensive insurance:

Coverage: Full replacement value
Rate: 1-3% of declared value
Minimum: Usually $300-500 USD
Claims: Professional assessment process
Recommendation: Always purchase for valuable shipments

Valuation guidelines:

Replacement value: Current cost to replace
Depreciation: Consider age and condition
Sentimental items: Insurance based on replacement cost
Professional appraisal: For valuable artwork, antiques
Documentation: Photos and receipts support claims

Money-Saving Strategies

Shipping optimization:

Consolidate timing: Ship everything at once
Compare quotes: Get multiple detailed estimates
Flexible dates: Avoid peak shipping seasons
Port selection: Sometimes alternative ports cheaper
LCL for small loads: If total volume under 15 cubic meters

Preparation savings:

DIY packing: Save $1,000-2,500 USD
Declutter first: Reduce volume and weight
Sell locally: Avoid shipping low-value items
Group shipments: Coordinate with other families
Off-season timing: Avoid holiday surcharges

Documentation efficiency:

Accurate declarations: Avoid delays and inspections
Organized paperwork: Reduce customs processing time
Local agent: Use experienced customs broker
Complete inventory: Detailed lists speed clearance

Payment Structures

Typical payment schedule:

Booking deposit: 25-50% upon confirmation
Pickup payment: 25-50% before container loading
Destination charges: Remaining balance upon delivery
Customs duties: Paid to customs directly

Payment methods:

Wire transfer: Most common for international
Credit card: Some companies accept (may add fees)
Cash on delivery: For destination charges
Company checks: Usually not accepted internationally

Budget planning:

Expect overruns: Budget 20-30% contingency
Currency fluctuation: Consider exchange rate changes
Hidden costs: Ask for all-inclusive quotes
Emergency funds: For unexpected delays or charges

Remember: Shipping belongings internationally is complex and expensive. Carefully evaluate whether shipping costs justify the benefit, especially for items that can be easily replaced in Bali. Focus on shipping valuable, sentimental, or hard-to-replace items that will enhance your family's comfort in your new home.

Shipping Personal Belongings to Bali: Complete Guide for Families (2025)