HS Code, OGA and Import Permits: Why Cargo Gets Held at Thai Customs

Quick answer: Cargo may be held because classification is inconsistent, product descriptions are vague, valuation or origin needs review, or another government agency regulates the goods. Requirements should be checked before origin dispatch.

For new importers, procurement teams and suppliers shipping a product model into Thailand for the first time.

Information to check before starting

  • HS code based on actual product characteristics
  • Catalogue, specification, model and use
  • Required OGA permits
  • Price, trade terms and payment evidence
  • Origin and preference claims

A practical operating sequence

  1. Collect technical data before classification
  2. Align all documents
  3. Check regulator and permit conditions
  4. Run a pre-check before transport
  5. Keep the decision trail for repeat shipments

Common causes of delay and extra cost

  • Reusing a foreign HS code without Thai review
  • Ordering before knowing who can hold the permit
  • Changing descriptions only after arrival

Frequently asked questions

What is an OGA?

Another government agency regulating specific goods in addition to Customs.

Can an advance ruling be requested?

Some cases may qualify; check the latest procedure with the relevant authority.

Discuss a clear shipment scope with Transpo

Share the origin, destination, cargo details and target delivery date with Transpo so the team can review scope, documents and practical transport options for the actual shipment.

Related searches: Thailand HS code, Thailand import permit, OGA Thailand customs, cargo held customs Thailand, customs clearance Thailand

Related service: Customs Clearance | Contact Transpo or call +66 2 105 8651

News & Blog Others

Factory Relocation and Machine Moving Thailand: Minimise Downtime, Keep Your Business Running

Industrial factory relocation demands meticulous pre-planning to minimise production downtime. Transpo Logistics manages the complete cycle: site survey, machine dismantling, protective packing, transport, reinstallation, and commissioning at the new facility — with a single team coordinating every stage.

Read more >>

Heavy Lifting and Crane Services Thailand: No Space Too Tight, No Load Too Heavy

Heavy lifting refers to the use of cranes, Spider Cranes, and specialist rigging equipment to raise loads exceeding one tonne, or to reach spaces inaccessible to standard mobile cranes. Transpo Logistics operates a full range of lifting equipment supported by engineers who calculate load plans and supervise every lift — from factory floor moves to hospital equipment installations.

Read more >>

BOI Import Rights for Machinery & Raw Materials: What You Need to Know

Companies holding a BOI promotion certificate can import machinery and raw materials with an exemption or reduction on import duty. But you must submit a Machinery List for BOI approval before importing, and machinery import rights generally must be used within 3 years of the certificate date. Raw materials are tracked through the RMTS system on every release, and using either outside their approved purpose can lead to the privilege being revoked.

Read more >>

Foreign Investors Opening a Factory in Thailand: What You Need to Prepare

Foreign investors looking to open a factory in Thailand should start by applying for BOI promotion. It exempts qualifying businesses from Foreign Business Act restrictions, and comes with tax incentives plus streamlined visa and work permit processing through the OSOS center. From there, the next steps are securing a factory license, arranging land, and importing machinery under the approved privileges.

Read more >>