🇲🇽 Import Customs & Duties: Mexico
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
16%
CIF value + duty. IVA applies to all imports. Border zones may have reduced rate of 8%.
Clearance Time
2-7 days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0-5% | HS 85 |
| Clothing | 20-35% | HS 61-62 |
| Footwear | 20-35% | HS 64 |
| Food products | 0-20% | HS 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-5% | HS 84 |
| Cosmetics | 10-15% | HS 33 |
| Books | 0% | HS 49 |
| Toys | 15% | HS 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Import Duty Calculator
Below de minimis threshold, no duty!: $50 USD
Customs Clearance Process
Mexico's SAT (Tax Administration Service) handles customs through VUCEM (Single Window for Foreign Trade). Imports require a pedimento (customs declaration) filed by a licensed customs broker. USMCA preferential rates apply for US/Canada origin goods.
What to Actually Expect
Improving with digital customs. SAT handles clearance. Can be slow for postal, 2-4 weeks. Express couriers clear in 1-2 days.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Item description, quantity, value, sender and receiver details
Packing List
Detailed description of contents in each package
Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23)
Required for postal shipments
Air Waybill (AWB)
Generated by the carrier when booking the shipment
Certificate of Origin
May be required for reduced duties (FTA/preferential rates)
Export/Import License
For restricted goods (electronics, medicines, chemicals)
Import License Requirements
Import permits required for agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, used vehicles, and firearms. COFEPRIS regulates food and health products. NOM certification for product safety standards required for many consumer goods.
Certificate of Origin
USMCA certificate for preferential rates with US and Canada. Self-certification accepted under USMCA. For other FTAs, specific forms required. Mexico has FTAs with EU, Japan, and many Latin American countries.
Learn more →Prohibited & Restricted Items
Prohibited
- xNarcotics and illegal drugs
- xExplosives and flammable materials
- xWeapons and ammunition
- xCounterfeit goods
- xCounterfeit currency and documents
Restricted (permit required)
- !Medicines and pharmaceuticals
- !Food and beverages
- !Plants and seeds
- !Electronics (lithium batteries)
- !Perfumes and cosmetics (volume limits)
Useful Links
Duty & Tax Estimate
Estimated import charges when shipping goods to Mexico:
| Goods Value | Duty | VAT/Tax | Total Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50 | $0 | $0 | Free |
| $100 | $8 | $17 | $25 |
| $200 | $23 | $36 | $58 |
| $500 | $68 | $91 | $158 |
| $1000 | $143 | $183 | $325 |
Estimates only. Actual duties depend on product category and HS code.
Popular routes to Mexico
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Mexico?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Mexico is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Mexico?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Mexico is 16%. VAT applies to: CIF value + duty. IVA applies to all imports. Border zones may have reduced rate of 8%.
How long does customs clearance take in Mexico?
Typical customs clearance in Mexico takes 2-7 days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Mexico?
To import into Mexico, you typically need: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and customs declaration. Some goods may require a certificate of origin or import license.
What items are prohibited from import into Mexico?
Mexico prohibits the import of narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, and hazardous materials. Restrictions may also apply to alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and certain electronics.