Shipping from the US to Mexico isn’t all that simple. There are complex shipping processes to follow, including security regulations, permits, and licenses. Whether you’re a seasoned logistics professional or a business expanding into Mexico, you need to know about the unique rules and documents that apply to this route.
Read on to learn more about shipping to Mexico from the US and what to expect when preparing for your cross-border shipment.
What You Need to Know About Shipping to Mexico from the U.S.
Two decades ago, the United States and Mexico signed the NAFTA agreement (now replaced by the USMCA agreement). This agreement allows trade between both countries to be free of tariffs and duties. Despite this advantage, traders still need to adhere to unique regulations.
Here, we list some of the important documentation and legal requirements you need to know before shipping to Mexico from the US.
Required Documents and Customs Forms
Because Mexico has very strict customs laws, the border’s documentation process is rigorous. Here are important documents you may need when shipping across the border:
- Letter of Instructions: Also known as “La Carta de Instrucciones” in Spanish, this document contains the names and numbers of all the parties involved in the transaction. This information is particularly useful to the broker, carrier, and freight forwarder.
- NAFTA Certificate of Origin: This certificate proves that the goods come from the United States, Mexico, or Canada. When shipping to Mexico, you must present this document if you want your goods to receive tariff treatment.
- Bill of Lading: This document shows that shippers and forwarders have authorization to move goods. It contains detailed information on the contents of the goods, the shipper, and the consignee. It also contains special handling information that gives the shipper an idea of the shipment’s content.
- Freight Invoice: The freight invoice in your shipment is used to calculate the Value Added Tax (VAT) you need to pay. However, if you’re using a shipping company registered under IMMEX, you may be eligible for VAT relief.
Prohibited Items
Certain goods are prohibited or restricted from crossing the Mexican border. The government imposes these restrictions to protect its economy, citizens, and environment. Some of these prohibited goods include:
- Spices
- Liquids such as beer, coffee, wine, or other beverages
- Garbage Pail Kids products (products that represent kids in a degrading manner)
- Precious metals such as gold and silver
- Live animals and animal products
- Firearms or other weapons, like knives and swords
Manufacturing Regulations
The Mexican government imposes unique manufacturing restrictions to protect several key interests, including labor standards, trade compliance, and product quality. Some manufacturing regulations you need to consider when shipping to Mexico from the US include:
- Solid Wood Shipments: If you’re shipping solid wood to Mexico, you’ll need to provide some documentation. These documents include payment confirmation, fumigation stamps, SEMARNAT permit, and an ocular inspection. However, depending on the product you’re shipping, you might also need an international phytosanitary certificate.
- United States-Mexico-Canada-Agreement: When shipping a product that qualifies as North American under the USMCA, you may need to submit nine data elements. This documentation helps you prove the origin of your product.
- Forced and Child Labor: Mexico has banned the importation of goods produced with forced or child labor.
Customs Clearance
The duration of the customs clearance depends on factors like the type of goods, the accuracy of the paperwork, and the complexity of the shipment. Ideally, the customs clearance process can take 48-72 hours once the shipment reaches the Mexico customs broker facility.
Mexico’s customs clearance process includes:
- Documents Submission: The documents required for the clearance are the bill of lading, packing list, certificate of origin, and shipper export declaration.
- Pedimento Presentation: This is a Mexican customs form issued to clear goods for either importation into or exportation out of Mexico.
- Duties and Taxes Assessment: Mexican customs authorities evaluate the imported goods to determine the applicable duties, taxes, and tariffs. This assessment is based on the shipment’s documentation, including the commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin.
- Customs Inspection: The authorities may have to inspect the goods to confirm that their content complies with Mexican regulations.
While this list is non-exhaustive, it covers most of the basics you need to know when learning how to ship to Mexico from the US.
Shipping Costs and Rates
There’s no set formula that you can use to determine the cost of shipping goods from the US to Mexico. Instead, there are a variety of factors that can affect your transportation costs:
- The shipping method you choose
- The shipping rates of the provider you select
- The size and weight of your shipment
- Your shipment destination
- Available shipping discounts
- Cost reduction tactics such as combining multiple packages for one shipment
- Unforeseen customs delays and expenses
How to Ship Packages, Produce, and More Over the Border
If you’re wondering how to ship goods to Mexico from the U.S., you’re in the right place. Expanding your business into Mexico doesn’t have to be a complex affair. Here’s our quick guide to help you get started:
- Determine the type of goods you’re shipping.
- Ensure your shipment is properly packaged.
- Choose a shipping method, e.g., truck, airplane, or ship.
- Select a carrier or freight forwarder for your shipment.
- Prepare the required documentation and undergo all necessary inspections.
- Clear Customs in the US and transport the goods.
- Clear Mexico customs, and ship on to customers.
Do You Need a Mexico Customs Broker for International Shipments?
When shipping goods from the US to Mexico, a Mexico customs broker is essential to ensure a smooth and compliant process. Here’s why:
- Mexican customs regulations can be complex and time-consuming to navigate
- A customs broker has the expertise and knowledge to classify and value your goods correctly
- They handle paperwork and documentation, reducing the risk of errors and delays
- They ensure compliance with regulations, avoiding costly penalties and fines
While it’s not mandatory to hire a customs broker, we highly recommend you consider it. The right customs broker will help you avoid potential issues and ensure your goods reach their destination safely and on time.
To choose the right Mexico customs broker, go for one that has expertise in Mexican customs regulations and experience with your specific type of goods or industry.
Our International Shipping Services
Here at Santos International, we work to provide our clients with all of the services they need to meet their logistics goals. No matter what you need shipped or stored, we can help. You can rely on us for the following services
- Warehousing
- Ground freight
- Air freight
- Sea freight
- Full truck load and partial truck load services
- Cold storage
- Dry storage
- Customs brokerage
- Produce shipping
- Nearshoring
Ship from the US to Mexico with Help From Santos International
Shipping internationally can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, you can protect your goods and expand your business. At Santos International, we’re dedicated to making US-Mexico shipping easy and efficient. We set ourselves apart from other carriers with our dedication to excellence.
Our understanding of tariff issues and customs regulations will save you from costly penalties and help reduce transit times. If you’re looking for a Mexican customs broker to support your business, you can count on us to protect your interests. We’re proud to provide top-in-class customs brokerage and shipping services for both domestic and Mexican customers.