Teamoney, commission, bonus.......bribery....it's a Worldly thing, but in Thailand (among a lot more others) it's out open on the street.
If you ship goods which belong in 1, 2 or maybe different commodities there's no problem. You work with HS-codes and the receiving shipping-agent can prepare everything prior to arrival and once in the Port, the release is a matter of 2 maybe 3 days.
Shipping a container however packed with household goods which can be classified into dozens of different commodities is a pain!!
The only thing that may help in getting the container through customs in a decent amount of time is:
- make lists of everyhting that's packed in the container with a description/picture.
- mark boxes with a reference number and make lists per box with descritpion/pics.
- Be clear and put yourself in the position of a low educated customs-officer: Would he understand what's in the container?
It's a painful and timeconsuming process, but on the other hand: It gives you the opportunity to think again whether you really want to take all that stuff.
Regarding household goods to Thailand: Holding a long-term visa (non-immigrant ) O-A-B (not ED) will waive most of the import fees and VAT. There's just a few items, such as electronics that still are taxed upon arrival.
Very important is to find a sending shipping-agent who has experience in shipping to Thailand; he should know what kind of items can cause trouble. A good shipping-agent will pack those items (in boxes) right at the access of the container.....
Regarding the cost of the transport of the container and all additional cost:
Usually a container (with household items) is picked up from one door and delivered to another door.
It passes 2 custom-authorities: outbound and inbound.
Those charges, fees and cost are usually NOT included in the transport cost. Verify this before shipping!!!
Another thing: The OP has spent USD 10,000 on transport, fees and "cups of tea" for a 20/40" container. That's approx. THB 360,000.
If you start packing....make a distinction between emotional goods (picture albums, books, collectibles,etc.), strictly personal goods (clothes, teddybears, toys, etc.) and strictly functional goods (appliances, computer, stereo, TV, furniture, etc.).
The least important items take most space.....sell them at home and buy new stuff here locally.