Project Logistics Solutions for Indonesia
Beyond the Main Ports
Indonesia presents one of the most complex logistical landscapes in Asia. While shipping to Jakarta (Tanjung Priok) or Surabaya (Tanjung Perak) follows standard deep-sea routes, many major projects, such as mining in Kalimantan, nickel smelting in Sulawesi, or power plants in Sumatra, are located in remote areas with limited infrastructure.
Shipping International specialises in managing these large-scale movements. We do not just land cargo at the main port; we engineer the "final mile" delivery. Our team handles the multimodal transition from ocean vessel to barge or heavy-haulage truck, ensuring your capital equipment reaches the site safely, regardless of the terrain.
Key Logistics Capabilities for the Archipelago
- Inter-Island Barging and LCT Operations: For sites without deep-water jetties, we utilise Landing Craft Tanks (LCTs) and flat-top barges. These vessels can berth directly near the project site, allowing Roll-on/Roll-off discharge of heavy machinery.
- Heavy Lift & Rigging: We manage the lifting operations for oversized units, such as transformers and autoclaves, at both the transhipment hubs (Singapore/Jakarta) and the final destination.
- Route Surveys & Civil Works: Indonesian roads often present obstacles like low bridges or weak culverts. We conduct detailed route surveys and, where necessary, perform civil works such as enforcing bridges or temporarily removing street furniture to allow passage.
- Remote Site Management: We provide on-site supervisors to oversee discharge operations in remote locations, ensuring compliance with UK HSE standards even in challenging environments.
Regulatory Compliance: The Masterlist System
Fiscal compliance is as critical as physical transport. The Indonesian government offers duty exemptions for foreign investment projects (PMA) through the "Masterlist" facility managed by BKPM (Investment Coordinating Board).
Shipping International assists your local entity in managing the logistics side of the Masterlist process. We ensure that the description and HS Codes on your commercial invoices match the approved Masterlist exactly. Discrepancies here can lead to the rejection of duty-free status and significant unexpected costs. For more details on import regulations, visit our Indonesian customs brokerage page.
Sectors We Serve
Our project logistics division supports the key industries driving Indonesia’s economy.
Mining and Resources
We transport excavators, dump trucks, and conveyor systems to remote mine sites in East Kalimantan and Papua. This often involves transhipment in Balikpapan or Samarinda onto specific river barges.
Energy and Power Generation
From geothermal plants in Java to diesel power plants on smaller islands, we handle the transport of turbines, generators, and transformers. We plan these moves months in advance to align with site construction schedules.
Manufacturing and Construction
We support the relocation of entire factory lines from the UK to industrial estates in Cikarang and Karawang. This includes dismantling services in the UK, packing, shipping, and re-assembly at the new Indonesian facility.
Risk Management in Tropical Logistics
Shipping to the tropics introduces specific risks. We mitigate these through proactive planning.
- Climate Protection: High humidity in Indonesia poses a risk of rust on steel machinery. We use vacuum packing with VCI desiccants and heavy-duty tarpaulins to protect cargo during the sea voyage and inland transit.
- Security: For high-value cargo moving through remote areas, we arrange security escorts to prevent theft and ensure the safety of the transport crew.
- Insurance: We provide comprehensive marine cargo insurance covering cargo from the moment of dismantling in the UK to final positioning at the Indonesian site.
Ready to streamline your project logistics to Indonesia? Contact Shipping International today for a consultation. Let us engineer a robust supply chain solution tailored to your project requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LCT and why is it used in Indonesia?
An LCT (Landing Craft Tank) is a shallow-draft vessel with a bow ramp. It is essential in Indonesia for delivering heavy cargo to islands or coastal sites that lack proper port infrastructure. The LCT can beach itself, allowing trucks and machinery to roll directly onto the land.
Can you handle shipments to remote islands, such as Sulawesi or Papua?
Yes. We ship to all major Indonesian ports and coordinate the onward feeder or barge transport to remote islands. We have experience delivering to mining and construction sites in Sulawesi, Kalimantan, Sumatra, and Papua.
What is a Masterlist in Indonesian customs?
A Masterlist is a document issued by the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM). It grants duty and tax exemptions for the import of capital goods and raw materials for investment projects. We align our shipping documentation with your Masterlist to ensure you receive these benefits.
Do you offer route surveys for road transport in Java?
Yes. Road infrastructure in Java can be congested and restricted by low bridges. We conduct physical route surveys to identify obstacles and determine the feasible maximum dimensions for road transport before the cargo arrives.
How long does shipping take from the UK to Indonesia?
Ocean freight from the UK to Jakarta typically takes 30 to 40 days. However, for project cargo requiring transhipment to remote islands, the total transit time will be longer. We provide a detailed schedule, including the feeder leg, during the planning phase. For urgent components, check our air freight services.
Can you dismantle machinery in the UK before shipping?
Yes. We offer dismantling and packing services at your UK facility. Our team marks and lists every component to ensure efficient re-assembly upon arrival in Indonesia.
What documents are needed for used machinery?
Importing used machinery (Capital Goods) into Indonesia usually requires a Surveyor Report (Laporan Surveyor) issued at the origin (UK) and a specific import approval (PI). We guide you through this pre-shipment inspection process to avoid rejection at the destination.
