In the customs clearance process, the green line is categorized as a low-risk inspection channel. Shipments assigned to this channel are generally released through document-based assessment without routine physical inspection.

However, the green line does not eliminate inspection authority altogether. Under Indonesia’s risk-based customs supervision framework, customs authorities may still conduct selective or random physical inspections as part of ongoing risk management and compliance control.

This means that clearance speed under the green line remains conditional on the accuracy, consistency, and completeness of import declarations (along with the supporting documentations required).

Four Import Channels and the Recent Policy Shift

Indonesia’s customs clearance system applies a risk-based approach by classifying import shipments into 4 inspection channels, each reflecting a different level of control and supervision as follows.

• Green Line Assigned to shipments assessed as low risk. Clearance is primarily conducted through document review, and physical inspection is generally not required. However, selective or random checks may still be applied to validate system accuracy and compliance.

• Yellow Line Focused on document verification. Importers must ensure that all permits and supporting documents are complete and consistent before goods can be released.

• Red Line Applied to higher-risk shipments. Customs conducts document verification and physical inspection to confirm compliance with customs and trade regulations.

• MITA (Main Partner Channel) Designated for importers with a strong compliance track record. Clearance is facilitated, but oversight remains in place, and shipments may still be subject to control measures if risk indicators arise.

Recently, customs authorities have reinforced supervision within this channeling system, including at the green line. This policy adjustment does not introduce a new inspection framework but strengthens existing authority to conduct selective physical inspections as part of risk-based supervision.

“Physical inspections at the green line are conducted selectively to ensure that the flow of goods remains smooth while strengthening supervision,” said the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), as reported by Bisnis.com.

Why Import Readiness Becomes Critical

Random checks at the green line do not automatically lead to delays. Delays typically arise when inspections uncover issues such as incomplete documentation, invalid permits, or inconsistencies between declared data and the physical condition of goods.

Import readiness refers to the condition in which all required permits, supporting documents, and technical verifications are prepared accurately and in accordance with applicable regulations prior to cargo arrival. When this readiness is established early, inspections—if they occur—can be completed without significant disruption.

For regulated commodities, Verification or Technical Tracing of Imports (VPTI) functions as a preventive compliance mechanism. By verifying conformity between import permits, documentation, and goods before clearance, VPTI helps reduce the risk of corrective actions during inspection. This is why importers are encouraged to ensure that import documentation is complete and verified by a trusted surveyor, so that shipments remain compliant even under enhanced supervision.

Import Readiness with KSO SCISI

KSO SCISI supports import readiness by ensuring the proper issuance of a Surveyor Report (LS) in accordance with applicable technical guidelines and regulatory requirements. This helps ensure that VPTI-regulated imports remain compliant, even when subject to random checks at the green line.

With early verification and proper preparation, imports can continue to move efficiently despite strengthened supervision.

Consult your VPTI process today 🌐 www.scisi.co.id