Documentary Requirements for Shipping to Colombia
Colombia requires specific documentation for imports. This comprehensive guide covers commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and other essential paperwork.
Colombia's Import Documentation System
Colombia has modernized its customs procedures significantly in recent years, implementing the VUCE (Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior) single window system for trade documentation. However, the country still maintains strict documentation requirements that must be met for successful customs clearance.
Understanding these requirements and preparing accurate documentation is essential for Canadian exporters looking to access Colombia's growing market of 51 million consumers.
Did you know?
Colombia is Canada's third-largest export market in Latin America, with bilateral trade exceeding $2 billion CAD annually. The Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement eliminates duties on 98% of Canadian exports to Colombia.
Essential Documents Required
1. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is the foundation of your shipping documentation. It must include:
- •Complete exporter and importer information (names, addresses, tax IDs)
- •Detailed product descriptions in Spanish
- •HS codes (10-digit subheading level for Colombia)
- •Quantity, unit price, and total value in USD
- •Country of origin for each product
- •Payment terms and method
- •Shipping terms (Incoterms)
2. Certificate of Origin
To benefit from preferential tariff treatment under the Canada-Colombia FTA, you need a valid Certificate of Origin. Key points:
- •Use the official Canada-Colombia FTA certificate format
- •Can be completed by exporter or producer
- •Valid for one year from date of completion
- •Must be available at time of import declaration
- •Blanket certificates available for multiple shipments
3. Packing List
A detailed packing list helps customs verify shipment contents and must include:
- •Number and type of packages (boxes, pallets, crates)
- •Detailed contents of each package
- •Dimensions and weight of each package
- •Package markings and numbers
- •Total gross and net weight
4. Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
The transport document proving shipment ownership and providing shipping details:
- •Ocean Bill of Lading (B/L) for sea freight
- •Air Waybill (AWB) for air freight
- •Must show consignee as the Colombian importer
- •Colombian port/airport of discharge clearly indicated
Did you know?
Colombia's VUCE system allows electronic submission of most trade documents, reducing processing time by up to 50%. However, original certificates of origin may still be required for certain high-value shipments.
Additional Documents (Product-Specific)
Food Products (INVIMA Registration)
All food, beverages, cosmetics, and medical products require sanitary registration from INVIMA (Instituto Nacional de Vigilancia de Medicamentos y Alimentos). Registration must be obtained before shipment.
Agricultural Products (ICA Certificate)
Plants, plant products, and agricultural items need phytosanitary certificates from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), plus approval from Colombia's ICA.
Electronics (Certificate of Conformity)
Electronic and electrical products may require certificates showing compliance with Colombian technical standards (NTC). Check requirements with ONAC (Organismo Nacional de Acreditación).
Textiles and Apparel
Textile products may require additional labeling showing fiber content, care instructions, and country of origin in Spanish.
Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical products need INVIMA sanitary registration plus import licenses. Manufacturing facility inspection certificates may also be required.
Importer Requirements
Your Colombian customer (the importer of record) must have:
- •RUT (Registro Único Tributario): Colombian tax identification number
- •Import Registration: Companies must be registered as importers with DIAN (Colombia's tax authority)
- •Customs Broker: Colombian law requires use of a licensed customs broker (agente de aduanas) for commercial imports
Common Documentation Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Incorrect HS Codes
Using wrong classification codes leads to incorrect duty calculations and potential penalties. Colombia uses 10-digit codes—verify yours carefully.
❌ Incomplete Product Descriptions
Generic descriptions like "machine parts" or "clothing" are insufficient. Provide detailed specifications including materials, dimensions, and intended use.
❌ Missing Spanish Translations
While documents can be in English, having key information (especially product descriptions) in Spanish speeds up customs processing significantly.
❌ Undervaluing Goods
Declaring artificially low values to reduce duties is illegal and results in severe penalties, shipment seizure, and potential criminal charges.
❌ Expired Certificates
Check validity dates on all certificates. Certificates of Origin, health certificates, and conformity certificates all have expiration dates.
How Metro Shippers Ensures Compliance
We understand Colombia's documentation requirements inside and out:
- •Document preparation and review by trade compliance specialists
- •HS code verification and classification support
- •Certificate of Origin preparation for FTA benefits
- •Coordination with licensed Colombian customs brokers and importers
- •Product-specific regulatory guidance (INVIMA, ICA, ONAC requirements)
- •Spanish translation services for commercial documents
Need Help with Colombian Import Documentation?
Our Colombia trade specialists will ensure your documentation is complete and compliant.