To import into Mexico a company needs three things: to be registered to import, for its product to meet the rules that apply to it and to keep the documents of each shipment in order. This guide explains each requirement and what we ask for to prepare a quote.
The importers’ register
To import in its own name, a company must be registered in SAT’s Padrón de Importadores (importers’ register). Registration requires, among other things, an active RFC (tax ID), a valid e.firma (electronic signature) and tax obligations that are up to date.
Some goods also require registration in a specific sector register.
If your company is not on the register yet, check it before closing the purchase with your supplier. Cargo that arrives in the name of an unregistered company cannot be released.
Permits and NOMs for your product
Every product has its tariff classification, and the permits and standards it must meet depend on it. More in the guide to tariff classification.
What we check most often by sector:
- Dermocosmetics: the COFEPRIS permit and labelling. A product that arrives without its permit is held at customs. See dermocosmetics imports.
- Machinery and production lines: the applicable NOMs, prior inspections and origin markings such as serial number, model and brand. See machinery imports.
- Packaging materials: prior inspections and NOMs. See packaging materials imports.
Documents for each shipment
Each import carries, at a minimum, the supplier’s commercial invoice, the transport document (the bill of lading for sea cargo) and the pedimento filed by the customs broker.
The data must match across all the documents and with the goods. More in the guide to the Mexican import pedimento.
We hand the cargo and the documents to the customs broker 24 to 48 hours before arrival, even if another agency clears the import. Clearance starts as soon as the shipment lands.
What we need to quote
To quote an import we need:
- Your supplier’s city and details.
- A description of the goods.
- Weight and volume, or the number of containers.
- The date the cargo will be ready.
With that we prepare an ALL IN quote, with no destination charges that were not in the quote.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be on the importers’ register? Yes, to import in your company’s name.
Is the customs broker included? Our customs agency invoices the import directly to your company. If you prefer to clear with another agency, we still hand them the cargo 24 to 48 hours before arrival.
What do you need to give me a quote? Your supplier’s details, a description of the goods, the weight and volume and the date the cargo will be ready.