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Consignment Concept: An Alternative for PMA Companies to Store Goods in Bonded Logistics Centers (PLB)

Consignment Concept: An Alternative for PMA Companies to Store Goods in Bonded Logistics Centers (PLB)

In the world of international trade, managing goods distribution is a critical aspect for companies. One alternative worth considering is the consignment concept, which can also be applied in Bonded Logistics Centers (PLB) like Transcon Indonesia, offering an attractive solution for Foreign Investment Companies (PMA).


Introducing the Consignment Concept in the Context of PLB

Consignment is an arrangement in which the owner of goods — in this case, a PMA company — entrusts their goods to another party, called the consignee, to be sold or distributed to third-party buyers. Here, the consignee acts as an agent or distributor responsible for handling the goods.

This model provides flexibility for international business operations, especially when dealing with complex import-export regulations.


Benefits of Using the Consignment Model in PLB

Applying the consignment concept within Transcon Indonesia’s PLB offers numerous advantages for PMA companies:

  • No Need for a Permanent Business Entity (BUT): PMAs can store goods in the PLB without being registered as a Permanent Business Entity (BUT) in Indonesia, which is typically required to become a registered distribution destination in a PLB.

  • Access to PLB Infrastructure: PMAs can leverage the storage and management infrastructure at Transcon’s PLB without needing to bear the cost of owning and operating a facility independently.


FAQ: Can PMA Companies Store Goods in PLB Without a Buyer? What’s the Solution?

Answer: A PMA cannot be registered as a distribution destination in a PLB — that role must be fulfilled by a registered BUT in Indonesia. However, if the PMA acts as a shipper, it can use the consignment concept, allowing the actual buyer in Indonesia to be registered as the distribution destination once a sale is made. The buyer must, however, have the appropriate import license.


PLB and the Challenge for PMAs

PLB facilities play a vital role in Indonesia’s international trade logistics. However, a common question arises: Can a PMA company store goods in a PLB even if there is no buyer yet?

Since PLB distribution destinations must be registered BUT entities, PMAs face a legal barrier. Yet, a practical solution is consignment.

By acting as the shipper, a PMA can store its goods in a PLB under consignment. Once a buyer is found in Indonesia, that buyer is registered as the official distribution destination, and the goods can be released accordingly — provided the buyer holds valid import permits.

This approach enables PMAs to store and manage goods in a PLB while adhering to Indonesian regulations, even without an immediate buyer.


Summary

While PMAs cannot be registered as a direct distribution destination in a PLB, they can still store goods using the consignment model. In this setup:

  • The PMA acts as the shipper.

  • The buyer in Indonesia becomes the registered distribution destination.

  • The buyer must have the required import permits.

This approach provides flexibility, legal compliance, and efficient inventory handling — helping PMAs operate effectively in Indonesia’s logistics landscape.


By using the consignment concept with Transcon Indonesia’s PLB services, PMA companies can manage distribution more efficiently, optimize costs, and ensure the safety of entrusted goods — ultimately enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.

Join other clients who have experienced the benefits of Transcon Indonesia’s PLB services. Contact us at
📧 sales_support@transcon-indonesia.com
to get started with your bonded warehouse logistics solution today.

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