Understanding Customs Clearance in Mexico
Navigate Mexico's customs procedures with confidence. Learn about required documentation, duty calculations, and common pitfalls to avoid when shipping to Mexico.
Mexico's Customs System Overview
Mexico operates a sophisticated customs system managed by the Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT). Understanding this system is crucial for Canadian businesses, especially given Mexico's position as Canada's third-largest trading partner.
Did you know?
Mexico processes over 4 million customs declarations annually, with approximately 80% receiving a "green light" for immediate release without physical inspection.
Required Documentation
For successful customs clearance in Mexico, you'll need:
- •Commercial Invoice - Must include detailed product descriptions, HS codes, and values in USD
- •CUSMA Certificate of Origin - For preferential duty treatment (Form CUSMA)
- •Packing List - Detailed inventory with weights and dimensions
- •Bill of Lading or Airway Bill - Transportation contract and receipt
- •Pedimento - Mexican customs declaration (prepared by customs broker)
Understanding CUSMA Benefits
The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) provides significant advantages for Canadian exporters. Many products can enter Mexico duty-free if they meet origin requirements.
Key requirements for CUSMA qualification:
- •Goods must be wholly obtained or produced entirely in Canada, US, or Mexico
- •Products must meet specific Regional Value Content (RVC) requirements (typically 50-75% depending on the product)
- •Proper CUSMA Certificate of Origin must accompany the shipment
Did you know?
CUSMA eliminates duties on over 99% of products traded between Canada and Mexico, potentially saving Canadian exporters thousands of dollars per shipment.
Duty and Tax Calculations
Import Duties
Without CUSMA benefits, Mexican import duties typically range from 0% to 35%, with most products falling in the 5-15% range. Duties are calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
Value Added Tax (IVA)
Mexico applies a 16% Value Added Tax (IVA) on most imports. This tax is calculated on the sum of the CIF value plus any import duties.
Additional Fees
- •DTA (Processing Fee) - A small percentage fee based on the customs value
- •Pre-validation Fee - For electronic customs processing
- •Customs Broker Fees - Professional services for customs clearance
The Customs Clearance Process
Step 1: Pre-Arrival Documentation
Submit required documents to your customs broker 48 hours before arrival. This allows time for pre-clearance processing.
Step 2: Arrival and Inspection Selection
Upon arrival, shipments undergo electronic selection (semáforo fiscal - traffic light system). The system randomly selects shipments for physical inspection:
- •Green Light: No physical inspection required - immediate release
- •Red Light: Physical inspection required - may cause delays
Step 3: Payment and Release
Once cleared, duties and taxes must be paid before the goods are released. Most brokers facilitate electronic payment for faster processing.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Incorrect HS Code Classification
Using the wrong harmonized system code can result in incorrect duty rates or rejection. Verify HS codes with Mexican customs or an experienced broker.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation
Missing information or discrepancies between documents can cause significant delays. Double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness.
Improper CUSMA Claims
Claiming CUSMA benefits without proper qualification can result in penalties. Ensure your products meet origin requirements before claiming preferential treatment.
Undervaluation
Mexican customs actively investigates undervalued shipments. Always declare accurate values to avoid penalties and delays.
Did you know?
The "traffic light" system in Mexico was introduced to ensure fairness and reduce corruption. The electronic randomization prevents bias in selecting shipments for physical inspection.
Special Considerations
Regulated Products
Certain products require additional permits or authorizations:
- •Food products - COFEPRIS health permits
- •Electronics - NOM compliance certificates
- •Pharmaceuticals - Special health registrations
- •Textiles - Labeling requirements in Spanish
Temporary Imports
Mexico offers temporary import programs for goods that will be re-exported. This can significantly reduce costs for trade show displays, samples, or manufacturing materials.
Working with Customs Brokers
Mexican law requires the use of licensed customs brokers (agente aduanal) for most commercial shipments. A good broker provides:
- •Expert knowledge of Mexican customs regulations
- •Efficient document preparation and submission
- •Communication with customs authorities
- •Duty and tax calculations
- •Problem resolution and advocacy
Metro Shippers' Mexico Expertise
Metro Shippers has established relationships with trusted customs brokers throughout Mexico. Our team handles the complexities of Mexican customs procedures, ensuring smooth clearance for your shipments.
We provide:
- •Pre-clearance documentation review
- •CUSMA qualification verification
- •HS code verification and optimization
- •Coordination with Mexican customs brokers
- •Real-time status updates throughout the clearance process
Contact Our Mexico Shipping Specialists
Need assistance with shipping to Mexico? Our experts can help streamline your customs clearance process and ensure compliance with all Mexican regulations.
Email us at info@metroshippers.com or sales@metroshippers.com