Complete Guide: How to Import Coffee from Indonesia

Indonesia, one of the largest coffee producers in the world, offers various high-quality coffee varieties recognized by coffee lovers worldwide. Importing coffee directly from Indonesia is an intelligent move for coffee entrepreneurs abroad who want to provide the best quality to their customers.

Importing coffee from Indonesia requires a deep understanding of various aspects, from supplier selection to the destination market. This guide will discuss the steps needed to import coffee from Indonesia successfully.

Selecting the Right Coffee Supplier

Choosing the right coffee supplier in Indonesia is crucial in the coffee import process. Here are several steps you can follow to select a coffee supplier that suits your needs:

1. Do In-depth Research.

Before deciding which supplier to choose, do thorough research about the coffee market in Indonesia. Learn about the different coffee-producing regions, the coffee varieties available, and the flavor characteristics of each. You also need to understand market trends and consumer demand for certain coffees.

2. Review Reputation and Experience.

Choose a coffee supplier with a good reputation and industry experience. Please find out how long they have been in business, whether they have relevant certifications, and whether they have served high-profile clients. Customer reviews and references from previous clients can also be valuable sources of information.

3. Product Quality Evaluation.

Be sure to try coffee samples from the suppliers you are considering. Evaluate coffee quality based on the beans’ aroma, taste, acidity, and fineness. Ask for more information about the coffee processing processes they use and how they maintain the quality of their product.

4. Consider Production Capacity and Stock Availability.

Choose a coffee supplier who can consistently meet your demands. Review their production capacity and ensure sufficient stock is available to fulfill your order within the desired time. Don’t forget to ask about their policies regarding large or small orders.

5. Communicate Well.

Effective communication is essential in your relationship with your coffee supplier. Make sure you can easily communicate with their team, whether that’s via email, phone, or in person. Establish a strong relationship with them to ensure smooth collaboration and timely order fulfillment.

Packing and Shipping Process

After choosing a supplier, you must ensure the coffee is packaged well and shipped safely to your country. Here are the steps you need to do:

1. Packing that meets standards.

• Make sure that the coffee is packaged carefully and follows applicable international standards. This includes using quality and safe packaging materials to prevent damage or contamination of the coffee during shipping.
• Consider humidity, air, and light in the packing process. Use packaging that is resistant to environmental conditions that may occur during shipping.
• Ensure each coffee package is filled with the appropriate amount and sealed tightly to prevent leaks or loss during shipping.

2. Documents and Permits.

• Prepare all necessary import documents carefully and ensure they are complete and accurate. This includes a commercial invoice with full details about the imported coffee, a certificate of origin showing that the coffee comes from Indonesia, and any import permits required by the authorities in your destination country.
• Understand your destination country’s customs requirements well. Each country has different regulations regarding coffee imports, including any fumigation, heat treatment, or health certification requirements that may be required.

3. Logistics and Delivery.

• Before arranging shipping, consider the logistics options available, including ocean, air, or land shipping. Choose the option that best suits your needs, considering cost, delivery time, and the coffee you are importing.
• Choose a shipping company with a good reputation and experience sending imported goods. Choose a company with responsive customer service that can provide accurate shipping status information.
• Monitor delivery status regularly and communicate with relevant parties, including shipping companies and customs agents, to ensure that deliveries run smoothly. Have a backup plan in case problems or delays occur in delivery.

Customs and Payment Processing

It would be best if you handled customs and payment processing once the coffee arrives in your country. Here are some things you need to pay attention to:

1. Customs Process.

• Prepare all import documents carefully according to your country’s customs requirements. Commonly required documents include commercial invoices, certificates of origin, shipping documents, and other customs documents per your country’s import policies.
• Comply properly with applicable customs procedures. This may involve filling out customs forms, paying customs duties and import taxes, and having customs officials physically inspect goods.

2. Consider using the services of a customs agent.

• If you feel that the customs process is too complicated or you do not have enough experience, consider using the services of an experienced customs agent. Customs agents can help you understand applicable customs requirements, arrange import documents, and facilitate your import process.
• Choose a trusted customs agent with a good reputation in the industry. Be sure to communicate clearly with the customs agent about your needs and expectations for the import process.

3. Safe and Efficient Payments.

• Make payments to your supplier according to previously agreed terms. This may include partial payment upfront or full payment upon receipt of the goods.
• Consider using a safe and efficient payment method, such as an international bank transfer or a trusted online payment service. Comply with applicable international payment regulations and policies.

4. Monitor Customs and Payment Processes.

• Monitor the progress of your customs and payment processes regularly. Maintain good communication with customs agents, related parties at the customs office, and your suppliers.
• Prepare a backup plan if obstacles or problems arise in the customs or payment process. Communicate with related parties to find the right solution to overcome the problem.

Local Storage and Distribution

After successful import, you must prepare a local storage and distribution strategy. Here are some things you need to consider:

1. Optimal Storage.

Ensure you have appropriate storage facilities to maintain the quality of imported coffee. This includes selecting a warehouse or storage facility with proper temperature, humidity, and lighting controls.

• Temperature control: Keep the temperature in the storage room stable, ideally between 15-25 degrees Celsius, to prevent changes in the taste and aroma of the coffee.
• Humidity control: Ensure that the relative humidity in the storage room does not exceed 60-70% to avoid mold growth and damage due to excess moisture.
• Lighting control: Protect coffee from direct exposure to sunlight, which can speed up the oxidation process and cause damage to the coffee beans.

2. Distribution Strategy.

Plan an effective distribution strategy to get coffee to your customers quickly and efficiently. This includes considering the distance, delivery time, and customer preferences.

• Work with a local distributor: You can consider working with a local distributor with a vast network and experience in delivering coffee products to shops or cafes in the area.
• Opening your distribution channel: Alternatively, you can consider opening your distribution channel by setting up a delivery team or fleet that can deliver coffee directly to your customers.

Coffee Suppliers and Exporters in Indonesia

The export and import process is quite complicated. To make it easier for you to import coffee from Indonesia, our team is ready to help you. PT Indo Malaka Global is a coffee supplier and exporter in Indonesia. We have experience exporting coffee to various countries through green, roasted, and ground coffee.

Please get in touch with us with inquiries, feedback, or partnership opportunities. Connect with us on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for easier access to product updates.