ELTOSAI Logistics Guide

Carta Porte: Mexico's Digital Transport Document Explained

Updated October 2026 · By the ELTOSAI brokerage team

The Carta Porte is Mexico's digital transport document: an electronic complement to the CFDI (digital tax invoice) that must accompany goods in transit within Mexico. It identifies the cargo, origin, destination, vehicle and operator for every domestic freight movement.

Who issues it and when

The carrier (or the party operating the transport) issues the Carta Porte complement electronically through SAT's systems before the goods move. It applies to road, rail, air and maritime transport within Mexico, including the inland leg of an international shipment after customs clearance.

For importers, the practical point is simple: your inland trucking from Manzanillo, Veracruz or Laredo to your facility must travel with a valid Carta Porte. Enforcement includes roadside verification, and transport without it can be stopped and fined.

Mandatory digital document for domestic freight movements in Mexico
Issued by the carrier via SAT before transport
Covers the inland leg of international shipments after clearance
Roadside enforcement: no valid Carta Porte, no movement

Frequently asked questions

What is the Carta Porte?

Mexico's mandatory digital transport document, an electronic complement to the tax invoice that must accompany goods moving within Mexico, identifying cargo, route, vehicle and operator.

Does the Carta Porte apply to international shipments?

It applies to the domestic Mexican leg: after your import clears customs, the truck to your plant or warehouse needs a valid Carta Porte.

Who is responsible for issuing the Carta Porte?

The carrier or transport operator, issued electronically through SAT systems before the goods move.