Mexican customs (aduana) doesn't reject shipments for mysterious reasons: it rejects them for document reasons. After thousands of clearances, we've learned that 90% of delays trace back to five preventable errors. This guide gives you the full requirements checklist and how to avoid each one.
The non-negotiable document checklist
Before your freight departs, your broker should have validated every item below. 'We'll fix it on arrival' is the most expensive sentence in Mexican logistics.
- Commercial invoice: detailed descriptions, unit values, total value, Incoterms
- Packing list: quantities, weights and dimensions per package
- Bill of lading or air waybill: consignee must match the importer of record
- Certificate of origin: USMCA or other trade agreement, if claiming preference
- NOM certificates: for products subject to Mexican standards
- Import permits: sectorial goods (textiles, steel, electronics, etc.)
- Power of attorney (carta encomienda) authorizing your customs broker
The pedimento, explained
The pedimento is filed electronically through SAT's system. It consolidates classification (fracción arancelaria), customs value, origin, quantities and the duties calculated. Your broker's license is on the line with every filing, which is why serious brokers interrogate your documents before filing, not after.
Once filed, the automated selection system assigns green light (desaduanamiento libre: immediate release) or red light (reconocimiento aduanero: physical inspection). You cannot influence the light; you can only deserve the green one with clean paperwork.
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What triggers a red light inspection
Inspections aren't random. SAT's risk engine flags patterns, and experienced brokers know them all:
- Declared values below market benchmarks for the fracción
- First-time importers with no compliance history
- Regulated product categories (textiles, footwear, electronics)
- Inconsistencies between invoice, packing list and transport document
- Origin claims without valid certificates
Duties and taxes at a glance
Three charges apply at clearance. Know them before you price your landed cost:
- IGI (Impuesto General de Importación): ad-valorem duty per fracción arancelaria
- IVA 16%: calculated on customs value + IGI + other duties
- DTA (Derecho de Trámite Aduanero): processing fee, the greater of a fixed minimum or 8 per thousand of customs value
The five mistakes that cost real money
One, vague invoice descriptions ('miscellaneous parts' is an inspection magnet). Two, values that don't match the transport document. Three, missing NOM certificates discovered at the port. Four, consignee name mismatches between documents. Five, starting the broker relationship after the vessel sails.
Every one of these converts into demurrage, storage and re-handling fees, typically $150–$400 per day per container at major ports. Pre-filing with a disciplined broker eliminates nearly all of it.
Frequently asked questions
What documents are required for Mexican customs clearance?
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, certificate of origin (if claiming trade preference), NOM certificates where applicable, sectorial permits for regulated goods, and a carta encomienda authorizing your broker.
What is a red light (reconocimiento aduanero) in Mexican customs?
It's a physical inspection triggered by SAT's risk system. Officials verify the goods against your pedimento and documents. Clean, consistent paperwork is the best way to earn green lights.
How much are import duties in Mexico?
IGI duty varies by tariff classification (0–35%+), plus 16% IVA on the customs value including duties, plus the DTA processing fee. USMCA-qualifying goods from the US and Canada often enter duty-free.
What is a carta encomienda?
A power of attorney authorizing your licensed customs broker to act on your behalf before Mexican customs. No broker can file your pedimento without it.
Can I clear customs without a broker in Mexico?
No. Commercial imports require a licensed agente aduanal by law. Your forwarder coordinates the broker as part of an end-to-end managed service.
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