Indonesia’s logistics industry is booming. With over 170 million internet users and an e-commerce market that continues to grow year after year, the demand for reliable logistics services has never been higher. If you are thinking about starting a logistic company in Indonesia, now is one of the best times to do it.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from legal requirements and licenses to costs, KBLI codes, and practical steps to get started.
Why Indonesia Is a Strong Market for Logistics
Indonesia is an archipelago of over 17,000 islands and home to more than 270 million people. This geography makes logistics both a challenge and a huge opportunity. Goods need to move constantly between islands, provinces, and cities.
E-commerce growth is the biggest driver. By 2025, Indonesia’s e-commerce Gross Market Value was expected to reach US$83 billion. Online retailers need warehousing, sorting, packaging, and last-mile delivery — all of which fall under the logistics umbrella. If you can build a reliable logistics operation, you are entering a market with consistent and growing demand.
The Indonesian government has also made logistics more attractive for investors. Through the Job Creation Law (Omnibus Law), the licensing process has been simplified. Foreign companies can now establish logistics and delivery businesses without needing a local partner, depending on the business structure. Additionally, the Positive Investment List opened 100% foreign ownership in key logistics segments, including courier activities (KBLI 53202) and warehousing (KBLI 52101).
If you want to understand why Indonesia is one of the best destinations for foreign business owners, read this in-depth overview: Why Indonesia Is the Best Country to Start a Business as a Foreign Investor.
Types of Logistic Business You Can Start
Before you register anything, you need to decide what type of logistics business you want to run. Here are the most common types:
- Freight forwarding (Jasa Pengurusan Transportasi / JPT) — Arranging the movement of goods by land, sea, or air
- Warehousing and storage — Operating storage facilities for goods
- Courier and last-mile delivery — Delivering packages directly to customers
- Cold chain logistics — Transporting temperature-sensitive goods
- Supply chain management — End-to-end management of the flow of goods
Each type has its own KBLI code (Klasifikasi Baku Lapangan Usaha Indonesia), which is the government’s business classification system. Choosing the right KBLI is critical. Picking the wrong one can block your license or even get your warehouse sealed by the OSS system.
For a clear explanation of how KBLI works and why it matters for your business, visit: Understanding KBLI: A Critical Business Classification Requirement for Foreign Investors in Indonesia.
Choosing the Right Legal Structure
To legally operate a logistic company in Indonesia, you must register a formal business entity. There are two main options for investors:
Local PT (Perseroan Terbatas)
A local limited liability company. This structure is 100% owned by Indonesian citizens. If you are a foreign investor, this is not the right structure unless you partner with a local shareholder.
PT PMA (Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing)
This is a foreign-owned limited liability company. It is the standard legal vehicle for foreign investors who want to own and operate a business in Indonesia. A PT PMA can own assets, enter contracts, hire staff, and hold licenses.
Minimum requirements for a PT PMA include:
- At least 2 shareholders (can be foreign individuals or foreign companies)
- At least 1 director and 1 commissioner (can be foreign nationals)
- Minimum paid-up capital of IDR 2.5 billion (~USD 150,000), per Minister of Investment Regulation No. 5 of 2025
- A registered business address in Indonesia (a virtual office is acceptable)
- A valid corporate NPWP (Tax Identification Number)
To understand all your options before committing to a structure, check out this resource: Foreign Company Registration Options in Indonesia.
Capital Requirements for a Logistics Company
Capital requirements vary depending on the type of logistics activity you plan to do.
For Jasa Pengurusan Transportasi (JPT) — the freight forwarding license — the Ministry of Transportation requires a minimum paid-in capital of at least IDR 25 billion. At least 25% of that capital must be placed and fully paid in, as verified by a certified public accountant.
For courier or warehousing businesses, the capital requirements are lower, but you still need to meet the general PT PMA minimum of IDR 2.5 billion in paid-up capital.
You will also need to budget for:
- Office space rental (at least a 2-year lease or proof of ownership)
- Operational vehicles (at least one four-wheel vehicle, owned or leased)
- IT systems integrated with national transportation information systems
- Professional staff, including at minimum a D3 or S1 degree holder in logistics, transportation, maritime, aviation, or a certified freight forwarder (FIATA/IATA diploma)
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Logistic Company in Indonesia
Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to registering your logistics business:
Step 1: Choose Your Company Name
Your PT or PT PMA name must consist of at least three words. The name must be approved by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (MOLHR). It cannot duplicate an existing registered company name.
For tips on naming your company correctly, read: How to Select or Change Your PT PMA Company Name in Indonesia.
Step 2: Sign the Deed of Establishment
You must sign your company’s Deed of Establishment (Akta Pendirian) before a licensed notary. This document records your shareholders, directors, commissioners, share structure, and business activities.
Step 3: Get MOLHR Approval
The Ministry of Law and Human Rights must officially approve the Deed of Establishment. This gives your company its legal entity status.
Step 4: Register Your Tax ID (NPWP)
You need a corporate NPWP (Nomor Pokok Wajib Pajak), which is your company’s tax identification number. If a foreign director is based in Indonesia, they also need a personal NPWP.
To understand how the NPWP works and avoid common mistakes, see: What is NPWP in Indonesia: A Complete Guide for PT PMA Owners.
Step 5: Register Through OSS (Online Single Submission)
OSS is the government’s central online platform for business licensing. You submit your company data here and receive your NIB (Nomor Induk Berusaha) — the Business Identification Number. The NIB replaces the old company registration certificate, import identification number, and customs access ID all in one.
Step 6: Apply for Your Logistics Business License (SIUJPT)
Under Ministry of Transportation Regulation No. 49/2017, logistics businesses that handle warehousing, sorting, packing, or shipping must obtain a SIUJPT (Surat Izin Usaha Jasa Pengurusan Transportasi). This license is applied for through the governor of the province where your business operates.
Key documents required for the SIUJPT application include:
- Deed of establishment (PT/PT PMA)
- Legal entity approval from MOLHR
- NPWP (Tax ID)
- Company domicile letter
- Proof of office ownership or 2-year office lease
- Minimum capital proof (IDR 25 billion for JPT)
- Proof of at least one operational vehicle
- Certified professional staff (IATA/FIATA diploma, or S1 Logistics degree)
- Integrated IT/software system
The licensing process typically takes around 14 working days after documents are complete.
Step 7: Register for BPJS and Manpower Report
All companies with employees must register with BPJS Kesehatan (health insurance) and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (employment insurance). You must also submit a Manpower Report (Wajib Lapor Ketenagakerjaan) to the Ministry of Manpower.
Key Licenses and Permits for Logistics Companies
Here is a summary of the main licenses you will need:
| License / Document | Issuing Authority | Purpose |
| NIB (Nomor Induk Berusaha) | OSS System | Core business identity number |
| SIUJPT | Ministry of Transportation / Governor | Operating license for logistics/freight |
| NPWP (Corporate) | Directorate General of Taxes | Tax identification |
| LKPM Report | BKPM (Investment Board) | Quarterly investment activity report |
| Environmental Permit (if applicable) | Ministry of Environment | For businesses with environmental impact |
Note that as of 2025, KBLI codes for logistics have been updated — freight forwarding (JPT) has moved from KBLI 52291 to KBLI 52311. Make sure you use the most current code when registering through OSS.
Common Challenges to Watch Out For
Starting a logistics company in Indonesia comes with real hurdles. Here are the most common ones:
- Choosing the wrong KBLI code — This can invalidate your license or restrict your operations
- Underestimating capital requirements — Especially for JPT, the IDR 25 billion minimum is a significant barrier
- Hiring unqualified staff — You legally need certified logistics professionals on your team
- Complex tax compliance — Indonesia has strict tax reporting deadlines. Late filing leads to penalties
- Infrastructure gaps — Outside of Java, logistics infrastructure can still be underdeveloped, affecting operations
To understand what challenges await foreign investors more broadly, read: Top 5 Challenges When Starting a PT PMA in Indonesia.
Can Foreigners Own a Logistics Company in Indonesia?
Yes. Under the updated Positive Investment List (following the Omnibus Law), foreigners can own 100% of courier and warehousing businesses in Indonesia. For freight forwarding (JPT) businesses, foreign ownership rules may differ based on joint venture arrangements, which require a license from the provincial governor.
Foreign directors can legally lead a PT PMA, but they must meet specific requirements, including having an Indonesian NPWP and, if residing in Indonesia, holding a valid KITAS (temporary stay permit).
After Registration: What Comes Next?
Once your company is registered and licensed, your work is not done. Here are the ongoing obligations:
- Quarterly LKPM Reports — Investment activity reports submitted to BKPM
- Annual tax filing — Corporate income tax and VAT (if PKP-registered)
- BPJS contributions — Monthly payments for all employees
- License renewal — Some permits need periodic renewal
- Compliance audits — Especially for freight forwarders handling customs
Building a strong compliance system from day one saves you from costly penalties later.
FAQs: Starting a Logistic Company in Indonesia
1. How much does it cost to start a logistics company in Indonesia?
The costs depend on your business type. For a PT PMA, you need a minimum paid-up capital of IDR 2.5 billion (~USD 150,000). For freight forwarding (JPT), the minimum capital is IDR 25 billion. Add to that office rental, staff, vehicles, and licensing fees. Total startup costs can range widely based on scale.
2. How long does it take to register a logistics company in Indonesia?
A basic PT PMA registration through the OSS system takes around 14 working days from the submission of complete documents. The SIUJPT logistics license also takes approximately 14 working days after all requirements are met.
3. Do I need a local Indonesian partner to start a logistics company?
Not necessarily. Under the updated Positive Investment List, foreigners can hold 100% ownership in courier services (KBLI 53202) and warehousing (KBLI 52101). For freight forwarding under a joint venture structure, some local requirements may apply.
4. What is a KBLI code and why does it matter for logistics?
A KBLI (Klasifikasi Baku Lapangan Usaha Indonesia) is a government-issued business classification code. It determines what type of license you need, whether foreign ownership is allowed, and what activities you can legally conduct. For logistics, choosing the wrong KBLI can result in license rejection or even business closure.
5. What is the SIUJPT and is it mandatory?
Yes. The SIUJPT (Surat Izin Usaha Jasa Pengurusan Transportasi) is mandatory for any logistics company that handles warehousing, sorting, packing, or freight transport services in Indonesia. It is issued by the governor of the province where your business is domiciled, under Ministry of Transportation Regulation No. 49/2017.
Ready to Start Your Logistics Company in Indonesia?
Starting a logistic company in Indonesia involves multiple legal steps, capital requirements, and licensing processes. Getting each step right from the beginning saves you time, money, and legal trouble down the road.
EZPZ Indonesia helps foreign business owners register their companies legally and efficiently — from PT PMA setup and KBLI selection to license applications and ongoing compliance. Our team handles the paperwork so you can focus on building your business.
