Nowadays, the process of importing and exporting goods has become easier, more convenient, and safer, thanks to the incorporation of electronic technologies. These technologies simplify processes, reduce complicated steps, and save time. Today, CPL will introduce Paperless, an electronic document registration system that all importers and exporters should understand before shipping goods internationally.

What is Paperless?

Paperless is a system officially implemented by the Customs Department of Thailand starting on August 1, 2006, to facilitate customs procedures without physical documents. This electronic system improves the efficiency of processing tasks such as export/import declarations, Goods Control Lists, Electronic Manifest, and Electronic Payment of duties. The main users of Paperless include exporters, importers, their agents, freight forwarders, and service counters for customs documentation.

Under this system, the Customs Department verifies information submitted by importers and their agents with the Freight Forwarder or Agent before proceeding with the next steps in the customs process.

How to Register for Paperless (Electronic Registration for Importers and Exporters)

To operate within the electronic customs system, businesses must register with the Customs Department, which maintains a database for accessing various customs services. Registration follows the regulations outlined in Customs Department Announcement No. 94/2564 regarding registration for customs procedures. Registration can be done in three ways:

1.Online Registration through the Customs Registration System

2.Online Registration via Customs Trader Portal (only available for Thai nationals who have never registered with the Customs Department)

3.In-person Registration at Customs Registration Service Units

Documents Required for Paperless Registration For Individual Registration:

• A copy of the national ID card or passport
• A copy of a savings or current account bank statement (showing the last 6 months of transactions)
• A letter of authorization (if unable to register in person)

For Corporate Registration:

• A copy of the national ID card or passport for all directors listed in the company’s registration certificate
• A copy of a savings or current account bank statement (showing the last 6 months of transactions)
• A copy of the VAT Registration Form (Form P.P. 20)
• A copy of the company registration certificate and objectives (no older than 6 months)
• A copy of the Form Bor.Jor.3 (Director’s report)
• A letter of authorization (if unable to register in person)

Steps to Register for Paperless

1. Submit an application form along with required documents.
2. The registration officer will check the application for accuracy and completeness.
3. After verification, a registration receipt will be issued.
4. The registration will be processed and approved by the authorized officer.
5. The officer will record the details in the customs registration system.
6. Finally, the documents will be stored in the electronic document management system.

The entire registration process typically takes about 30 minutes, assuming all documents are complete and accurate.

Benefits of Using Paperless

Reduced Paperwork: Less paperwork and supporting documents required for customs procedures.

Time-Saving: The process is faster, and electronic signatures can be used, even allowing exporters to sign documents electronically if agents prefer not to.

Enhanced Security: Information is encrypted before submission, and only the Customs Department can access the data for further processing, ensuring greater security compared to traditional methods.

Paperless registration, or electronic registration for importers and exporters, plays a crucial role in simplifying customs procedures and reducing the time and effort involved in international shipping. It’s important for importers and exporters to understand how Paperless works before sending goods abroad. CPL offers consultation services regarding products, documentation, and other logistics matters, along with international shipping via air, sea, and road transport.

For more information or to send goods internationally with smooth logistics, contact CPL at 02-519-4426, 063-519-4426, or 091-519-4426. Alternatively, you can reach us via Line @cplinter or visit our website www.cplinter.com