As Thailand’s largest island and key economic hub, Phuket is logistically well-connected. Although modern technology has streamlined the industry, commodities have been moving in and out of Phuket for hundreds of years due to its extensive tin mining industry. Mining ceased decades ago, and dredging and ore-hauling ships have been replaced by cargo ships, jets, and ecommerce networks. Over the past few years Phuket has experienced a shift from predominantly seasonal tourism and short-term residents towards long-term resident expats. With a growing population supporting continuously emerging businesses,  the demand for reliable supply chains is strong. Whether you are looking to relocate all of your worldly belongings or just order everyday necessities from an ecommerce platform, there is a logistics solution for you. 

Sea Freight

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Conveniently, Phuket has a deep sea shipping port in Cape Panwa. It can handle all sorts of cargo, from bulk goods and vehicles to shipping containers. While the port primarily handles larger-scale commercial shipping, smaller-scale logistics are supported which benefits the island's expats and thriving small businesses.

If shipping any items of significant size or value, hiring a shipping agent to handle the paperwork and logistics is imperative. For those who have to use these services often, finding an experienced and competent agent is crucial. Shipping by sea freight is a fraction of the cost of air freight, but can be painfully slow. 

Air Freight

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All cargo shipping directly to Phuket via air freight comes through Phuket International Airport. To reduce shipping costs, sometimes goods shipped from abroad will be sent by air to Bangkok then by land to Phuket. This is how the majority of small goods and anything shipped to or from Phuket quickly is shipped. Sending goods from Phuket by air is usually quite affordable and typically cheaper than things being shipped to Phuket from western countries. 

Customs and Importing

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When dealing with large items or shipping containers via sea freight, your agent will request necessary documentation from you in advance. They will also provide information regarding import taxes and potential tariffs. Bear in mind that you will be responsible for paying import taxes which can be as high as three hundred percent for luxury goods, and 7 percent VAT which is applied to all imported goods. Until recently, import tax only applied to items with a value less than THB 1,500, but now all imported goods can be subject to this tax. For expats relocating to Phuket and shipping household goods, there is a good chance that you will be charged import tax which applies to personal items and secondhand goods as well. 

For businesses, it may be beneficial to learn which countries Thailand has free trade agreements with and what the scope of the agreement is. For example, if you have a registered company limited in Thailand and order goods from another registered company in an ASEAN country, you will not have to pay import taxes in most cases. 

International Shipping

For those sending small items from Phuket, shipping via EMS from any post office is often the best option. Prices are reasonable, tracking is provided, and shipping times are quick. The biggest problem people run into using EMS is you can’t ship liquids or anything with a battery. However, companies like DHL, Fedex, or UPS typically will ship those items for you, but it is quite expensive. 

Domestic Shipping

For those shipping within Thailand, you will find rates very reasonable with rapid shipping times. Sending or receiving packages via Thai Post, Kerry Express, or Flash Express is usually quick and painless. When ordering from platforms like Lazada or Shopee, delivery will often be from one of those companies.