How to Import Goods from Thailand to Malaysia: 6 Essential Steps

Step 1: Check Product Category and Regulatory Requirements

Start with the product, not the supplier. Import requirements vary by category, and an early review prevents goods from being held up later. Obtain the HS code for each product as this determines the duty rate and any permits that may be required.

As an initial reference:

• **Thai cosmetics.** Cosmetic products typically need notification to NPRA, Malaysia's Ministry of Health, before sale. If you plan to import Thai cosmetics, check notification requirements and who can apply.
• **Thai skincare.** Like other cosmetic products, Thai skincare requires compliance with Malaysian regulations and often NPRA notification. Check ingredient restrictions and labeling standards.
• **Food and beverages.** Check Ministry of Health regulations and MAQIS requirements for certain items, including labeling and certification.
• **Thai herbal products.** Some herbal products may be classified as traditional products and require registration. Mention intended use and ingredients when inquiring.
• **Thai supplements.** Including Thai collagen supplements and Thai supplements in general, these often fall under supplementary food or traditional medicine categories with specific registration pathways.
• **Herbal balm and topical products.** Check whether these are classified as cosmetics, traditional medicine, or household items, as this affects approval requirements.
• **Household items.** Usually easier, but some electrical or chemical products have specific requirements.

If your customers care about halal certification, check product status and whether the certificate is recognized by JAKIM.

Prepare a brief list containing product name, main ingredients and intended use, as agencies or brokers will typically ask for these details first.

All this information is for reference only as regulations can change. Confirm with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, relevant agencies or an experienced shipping agent before placing an order.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Supplier

After the category is clear, decide where to source from. Each option brings different advantages and workflows.

**Distributors and wholesalers.** Suitable if you want recognized brands or a mix of categories in one order. Coordination is simpler, but selection depends on their product range. For Thai products wholesale across cosmetics, herbal products, food and household goods, ThaiNex is one source that provides documentation for each item during ordering.

**Manufacturers.** Better suited if you want your own brand or specific formulations. You'll need more involvement in product development, packaging and quality control. Those offering OEM skincare and custom formulations are increasingly available.

**Bangkok wholesale markets and shops.** Useful for spotting trends and small testing. Ask whether invoices and export documents can be provided as this affects customs handling.

**Online B2B marketplaces.** Make it easier to compare multiple suppliers at once.

Before deciding, request company details, product lists, expiry dates for perishables and sample documentation. Request samples if needed. Compare at least a few sources using the same questions so answers are easy to compare. The best choice isn't necessarily the lowest price, but a combination of clear sourcing, good communication and complete documentation.

Step 3: Understand Incoterms and Calculate True Costs

Product price is only part of the cost. Many new importers miscalculate margins by only looking at invoice prices.

Start with **Incoterms**, the terms that determine who bears cost and risk at each stage. Two common terms:

• **EXW:** You or your agent collect goods from the seller's warehouse and manage most of the journey.
• **FOB:** Seller manages goods until loaded on the agreed port vessel, then you take over.

Next, list all possible costs:

• Product price and bank fees
• Repackaging and labeling, if needed
• Transport and insurance
• Customs broker fees and handling
• Import duty and applicable taxes, including SST review
• Notification, testing or permits
• Storage, domestic delivery and platform fees

If goods qualify, the Certificate of Origin **Form D** under ATIGA can provide tariff preference for ASEAN goods. Eligibility depends on the product and rules of origin, so ask your supplier and customs broker.

Divide total cost by total units to get true cost per unit. Only then set your selling price with confidence. Request written quotations for easy comparison, and recalculate whenever quantity changes.

Step 4: Choose Your Shipping Route

Malaysia and Thailand share a border, so you have more options than many countries. The best choice depends on product type, value, quantity and urgency.

**Land route.** Often considered for shipments to Peninsular Malaysia via points like Bukit Kayu Hitam or Padang Besar. Suitable for many consumer goods, but check loading conditions, handling and documentation.

**Sea.** Better for large orders and heavy goods, especially to Sabah or Sarawak. Plan ahead as it involves ports, containers and additional handling.

**Air.** Suitable for high-value goods, samples or urgent shipments. Usually more expensive.

**Courier.** Practical for samples and small orders. Don't assume small orders are exempt from regulatory checks, especially for controlled products like Thai skincare or Thai herbal products.

When discussing with forwarders, state product category, weight, volume, packaging and final destination. Ask who handles customs declaration and how goods will be stored during transit. Cosmetics and food may be heat-sensitive, so ask for advice on packaging.

Actual time and cost will be confirmed during quotation, depending on product and route, so build in a buffer in your stock planning. For your first order, consider smaller shipments so you can assess the route and handling before increasing quantities.

Step 5 and 6: Documentation, Customs and Goods Receipt

The right documents smooth the clearance process. Standard set includes:

• **Commercial invoice**, with accurate product description
• **Packing list**, including number of cartons and weight
• **Transport documents**, such as bill of lading or air waybill
• **Certificate of Origin**, such as Form D if applicable
• **Permits or approvals**, according to product category

In Malaysia, import declarations are typically made through the customs system using Form K1, and many importers appoint a customs broker for this purpose. Ensure your company has the required registration and accounts. Ask your broker about current requirements as procedures can change.

Ensure the description on the invoice matches the actual goods. Mis-declaring value or contents can result in penalties and delays, and is not the way to build a long-term business.

When goods arrive, photograph cartons before opening. Check quantity, damage, expiry dates and batch numbers. Compare against samples and report issues in writing to your supplier and forwarder as soon as possible.

Store all documents neatly for tax, audit and future order purposes. After completing one shipment, record actual costs and issues. This record will make planning your next import easier. Share that feedback with your supplier and forwarder so similar problems can be avoided.