---
title: Requirements for Importing Goods into Mexico
description: Learn the key steps to legally and safely import goods into Mexico. Understand the requirements, taxes, documents, and practical and avoid common mistakes.
image: https://www.aduaeasy.com/hubfs/Blog%20Thumbail%20(4)-2.png
---

[Skip to the main content.](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico#main-content)

[![logo-blanco](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Aduaeasy%202022/logo-blanco.png?width=592&height=135&name=logo-blanco.png "logo-blanco")](https://www.aduaeasy.com/)

[![aduaeasy_logo@150x-8-2](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ae/blog/aduaeasy_logo150x-8.png?width=547&height=90&name=aduaeasy_logo150x-8.png "aduaeasy_logo@150x-8-2")](https://www.aduaeasy.com/)

- Servicios 
    - [Agencia Aduanal](https://www.aduaeasy.com/servicios/agencia-aduanal)
    - [Comercializadora](https://www.aduaeasy.com/servicios/comercializadora)
    - [Importacion Maquinaria](https://www.aduaeasy.com/importacion-de-maquinaria)
    - [Casos de éxito](https://www.aduaeasy.com/aduaeasy-casos-de-exito)
- [Nosotros](https://www.aduaeasy.com/por-que-nosotros)
- [Centro de aprendizaje](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge)
- [Contacto](https://www.aduaeasy.com/contactanos)

Search

[![Agenda una llamada](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/6995067/241657d0-6b4e-420f-b4e1-cde6eebe6cd5.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/6995067/241657d0-6b4e-420f-b4e1-cde6eebe6cd5)

Toggle Menu

Search

Toggle Menu

[![Agenda una llamada](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/6995067/241657d0-6b4e-420f-b4e1-cde6eebe6cd5.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/6995067/241657d0-6b4e-420f-b4e1-cde6eebe6cd5)

- Servicios
  
  
  
    - [Agencia Aduanal](https://www.aduaeasy.com/servicios/agencia-aduanal)
    - [Comercializadora](https://www.aduaeasy.com/servicios/comercializadora)
    - [Importacion Maquinaria](https://www.aduaeasy.com/importacion-de-maquinaria)
    - [Casos de éxito](https://www.aduaeasy.com/aduaeasy-casos-de-exito)
- [Nosotros](https://www.aduaeasy.com/por-que-nosotros)
- [Centro de aprendizaje](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge)
- [Contacto](https://www.aduaeasy.com/contactanos)

- Example Link
- Example Link
- Example Link

[Facebook](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico#0) [Instagram](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico#0) [Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aduaeasy/about/) [X](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico#0) [YouTube](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico#0) [Medium](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico#0)

[![sidebar menu cta](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/6995067/24233141-5b25-4d0c-ace1-f4c074845f7b.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/6995067/24233141-5b25-4d0c-ace1-f4c074845f7b)

![base de conocimientos](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Aduaeasy%202022/base%20de%20conocimientos.png?width=50&name=base%20de%20conocimientos.png)

[**Base de conocimientos**](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge)

- [**Fracciones Arancelaria**](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge/fracciones-arancelarias) 
    - [Juguetes](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge/fracciones-arancelarias#objetos-de-arte)
    - [Textil](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge/fracciones-arancelarias#textil)
    - [Construcción](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge/fracciones-arancelarias#construcci%C3%B3n)
- [**Normas Oficiales Mexicanas**](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge/normas-oficiales-mexicanas) 
    - [Normas de etiquetado](https://aprendizaje.aduaeasy.com/es-mx/knowledge/normas-oficiales-mexicanas#normas-de-etiquetado)

![blog](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Aduaeasy%202022/blog.png?width=50&name=blog.png)

[**Blog**](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog)

- [**Explorar categorías**](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog) 
    - [Fracción Arancelaria](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog/tag/fracci%C3%B3n-arancelaria)
    - [Mercancía](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog/tag/mercanc%C3%ADa)
    - [Comercio internacional](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog/tag/comercio-internacional)
    - [Impuestos](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog/tag/impuestos)
    - [Importación a México](https://www.aduaeasy.com/blog/tag/importaci%C3%B3n-a-m%C3%A9xico)

0%

[Mexico](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/tag/mexico), [Import to Mexico](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/tag/import-to-mexico), [Import Taxes](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/tag/import-taxes), [Mexico General Import Tax](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/tag/mexico-general-import-tax), [Import goods](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/tag/import-goods), [Requirements](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/tag/requirements)

# Requirements for Importing Goods into Mexico

 Por [Diego Sahagun](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/author/redactores-aduaeasy)

 Revisado por Diego Shagun

 May 22, 2025  10 minutos para leer

##### contents

Are you wondering what you need to **import goods into Mexico**? What **documents** are required for a successful **importation**?

**Importing into Mexico** isn’t exactly simple. There are several specific **requirements** you need to meet, and in many cases, you'll need support from an expert—otherwise, your efforts could end in failure.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential **requirements to import goods into Mexico** in 2023, including the **documents you’ll need**, the **steps involved**, and the **procedures** you must complete.

By the end of this article, you'll have a clearer idea of how to prepare before starting your **import process**, so your **goods** can enter the country without any issues.

As of December 2022, Mexico’s **total import value** reached **$48.339 billion USD**, making it one of the country’s key sources of revenue. **Importing** refers to the **legal introduction of goods and services** produced in another country into the **Mexican market**. Like any **international commercial activity**, it must be **regulated**, **audited**, and **supervised** by the relevant authorities.

If you’ve been thinking about **importing into Mexico** and feel overwhelmed by all the **procedures** involved, we’re here to help you understand the **key steps**.

## 1. Choose the Product You Want to Import

First things first: you need to be very clear about the **product you want to import**. Your **customs broker** will require detailed **product information** to conduct proper **compliance checks**. At a minimum, you’ll need to provide:

### Function

Understand how the **product works**—does it require **electricity**, **batteries**, or some other **power source**? Is it **mechanical**, **manual**, or **automated**?

### Materials

Identify the **materials** that make up your product: **plastic**, **rubber**, **textiles**, **glass**, **metals**, etc.

### Uses and Applications

Clearly state the **product's use**: Is it a **cutting tool**, a **painting machine**, a **spare part**, or a **repair instrument**? Is it intended for **industrial use** or for the **general public**?

### Commercial Presentation

Knowing the product’s **packaging** and **labeling** is critical for meeting Mexico’s **labeling regulations** and avoiding **fines** or **delays**.

### Level of Complexity

This refers to the level of **expertise** or **technology** involved in making the product. Is it **raw material** or a **finished good**?

## 2. Understand Your Product’s Tariff Classification

**Tariff classification** assigns a code—known as a **tariff fraction**—to your product for easy identification in **customs systems worldwide**. This classification determines the **taxes** you'll need to pay and identifies the **non-tariff regulations** you'll need to comply with.

This step is crucial. **Incorrect classification** can lead to **customs issues**, **delays**, and **increased costs** for your operation.

If you're unsure of your product’s **tariff code**, you can check out our **product database** with information on more than 900 items.

## 3. Know the Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions

Closely tied to the previous step, **non-tariff regulations** depend on your product’s correct and validated **tariff classification**. These requirements serve as filters to ensure the **safety** and **compliance** of imported products in areas like **environment**, **public health**, and **food safety**.

Some of the most common **non-tariff measures** include:

- **Mexican Official Standards (NOMs)** for **commercial labeling**
- **NOMs** for **safety and certification**
- **Health notifications** and **prior import authorizations (COFEPRIS)**
- **Sanitary and phytosanitary certificates**
- **Permits from the Ministry of Economy (SE)**

Several Mexican government agencies oversee these regulations, including:

- **Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT)**
- **Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA)**
- **Ministry of the Navy (SEMAR)**
- **Ministry of Economy (SE)**
- **Ministry of Energy (SENER)**
- **Ministry of Health (SALUD)**
- **Tax Administration Service (SAT)**
- **Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER)**
- **Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS)**
- **Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA)**

## 4. Define the INCOTERM with Your Supplier

**INCOTERMS** are international trade terms that outline the **responsibilities**, **risks**, and **costs** shared between the **buyer** and the **seller**. They answer three key questions:

- Who is responsible for what?
- When and where is the **risk transferred** from seller to buyer?
- Who pays for which **costs**?

It’s vital that both you and your **supplier** agree on this, as it impacts your **final cost** and determines if you'll need to calculate additional charges—like **freight**, **insurance**, and **packaging**—as part of the **customs value**.

## 5. What Documents Do You Need to Import into Mexico?

You may have asked this before and gotten different answers. That’s because **requirements** can vary depending on the type of **operation**. However, some **documents** are mandatory across the board:

### Technical Datasheet

This document must detail your product’s **technical specs** and answer the three key questions: What is it? What is it made of? What is it used for?

### Commercial Invoice

This document confirms the **value of your goods**. According to Article 36-A of the **Customs Law**, it includes **pricing** and other **data** relevant to the sale.

### Packing List

Prepared by the **supplier**, this outlines the **weight**, **dimensions**, and **volume** of each item.

### Customs Entry (Pedimento)

As per Article 2 of the **Customs Law**, this is the **digital declaration** filed with **Mexican Customs** containing **product data**, **tax information**, and **shipping details**.

### Transportation Document (BL/AWB) (H3)

Depending on your **mode of transport**:

- **Bill of Lading (BL)** for **sea freight**
- **Air Waybill (AWB)** for **air freight**

### Certificate of Origin

This certifies the **country of origin** of your goods. If there’s a **Free Trade Agreement** in place, you may benefit from **reduced or zero tariffs**.

### Power of Attorney (Encargo Conferido)

This document authorizes your **customs broker** to act on your behalf. It's generated through the **SAT portal** and must be filed with your broker.

### Letter 3.1.8

A translated **invoice** or **instruction letter** including **supplier**, **importer**, and **goods information**.

### W-9 Form

Used for **imports from the U.S.**, this is the American equivalent of a **Mexican taxpayer ID certificate**, provided by your **U.S.-based supplier**.

## 6. Choose the Right Transport Method (Main and Domestic)

Choosing the right **transport method** is critical for your **operation**. Consider:

- **Weight**
- **Dimensions**
- **Type of goods**
- **Timing**
- **Costs**

For example, some products can’t be transported by **air** due to size or **hazardous classification**. If you’re in a rush, **air freight** might be your only option despite its **high cost**. In contrast, **sea**, **road**, or **rail** options are slower but more **affordable**.

### Sea Freight

- **Global reach**
- **Suitable** for many types of goods
- Option for **full or consolidated containers**
- **Weather-resistant**
- Great **cost-to-value ratio**

### Air Freight 

- **Fastest option**
- Competitive for **urgent deliveries**
- **Simple paperwork**
- **Global coverage**
- Highly **reliable**

### Ground Transport

- **Versatility and accessibility**
- Reliable **transit times**
- Lower **packaging costs**
- Ideal for **door-to-door service**
- Good **cargo security**

## 7. Enroll in the General or Sector-Specific Importers Registry

Mexico’s **General Importers Registry** is a system managed by the **Mexican Tax Administration Service (SAT)**. All individuals or legal entities who wish to **import goods into Mexico** must be registered in this system.

In simple terms, this **registry** acts as an official **import permit**, and only **SAT** can issue it to those who meet the required conditions. Article 59 of the **Mexican Customs Law** also states that **registering** is one of the **mandatory obligations** for anyone bringing goods into the country.

It’s a **crucial step** for anyone planning to **import into Mexico**. However, the **General Registry** doesn’t apply to every type of product. Some goods require enrollment in a **specific sector registry**, which involves a different set of **procedures**.

Luckily, **registering** is fairly straightforward and can be done entirely online through the **SAT portal**.

## 8. Hire a Licensed Customs Broker or Customs Agency

According to Article 159 of the **Mexican Customs Law**, a **customs broker** is an individual authorized by **SAT**—through an official license—to represent third parties in **customs procedures** across the various **customs regimes** covered by the law.

Simply put, a **customs broker** is the only professional authorized to officially **process imports**. This means you’ll need one, since only they can sign the **customs declaration** required to **import goods**.

**Customs agencies**, on the other hand, are **legal entities** authorized by **SAT** to carry out **customs clearance procedures**. However, they must be formed based on a valid **customs broker license**.

Partnering with a **customs agency** can also be a great option. These agencies work with **licensed brokers** and offer additional benefits, such as help with:

- **Tariff classification**
- **Compliance** with **non-tariff regulations**
- Correct **tax calculations**
- Coordination of your **customs clearance process**

## 9. Calculate the Import Taxes You’ll Owe

Last—but definitely not least—you need to understand the **total amount of taxes and duties** you’ll owe for each import. One key point to keep in mind: **import taxes are not fixed**. What you pay depends on your **product**, its **tariff classification**, your **INCOTERM** agreement, and any **dutiable costs**.

Here are the main **duties and taxes**:

### Value Added Tax (VAT)

This tax applies to both **individuals and companies** that **import** or **sell goods** and **services** within Mexico.

### General Import Tax (IGI)

This tax protects the **national economy** and is calculated as a percentage of the **customs value**.

### Customs Processing Fee (DTA)

This fee is charged for the use of **customs facilities** in Mexico.

### Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS)

Applies to those who **manufacture**, **sell**, or **import** certain goods like **alcohol**, **tobacco**, and **diesel**.

### Compensatory Quotas

These are additional charges on certain **foreign goods** when **unfair trade practices** like **dumping** are detected.

As you can see, **importing into Mexico** isn’t a simple task. There are numerous **requirements**, and the process can be complex. That’s why working with a qualified **expert** is essential.

At Aduaeasy, we support businesses and individuals with expert guidance and step-by-step assistance to ensure safe, successful import operations.

![Picture of Diego Sahagun](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hubfs/Screenshot%202024-01-10%20at%2022.40.21.png)

 Escrito por

[Diego Sahagun](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/author/redactores-aduaeasy)

Soy Diego, el CEO de Aduaeasy, y me apasiona guiar a las empresas en México hacia el éxito. Mi misión es simplificar y agilizar sus procesos logísticos.

[*LinkedIn*](https://www.linkedin.com/in/diego-sahagun-4bbb0746/)

[![Picture of Diego Sahagun](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hubfs/Screenshot%202024-01-10%20at%2022.40.21.png)](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/author/redactores-aduaeasy) [Diego Sahagun](https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/author/redactores-aduaeasy)

Soy Diego, el CEO de Aduaeasy, y me apasiona guiar a las empresas en México hacia el éxito. Mi ...

[*LinkedIn*](https://www.linkedin.com/in/diego-sahagun-4bbb0746/)

 Obtenga el mejor contenido de marketing de la semana

##### Ubicación

Ubicación

Principal

Paseo Royal Country 4596, Puerta de Hierro, 45116 Zapopan, Jalisco

![mail](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Aduaeasy%202022/mail.png?width=20&name=mail.png)   [hola@aduaeasy.com](mailto:hola@aduaeasy.com)

![phone](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Aduaeasy%202022/phone.png?width=20&name=phone.png)   [+52 (33)4162-4323](tel:523341624323)

  [Vacantes](https://www.aduaeasy.com/vacantes-rrhh)

##### Aduaeasy

Aduaeasy

- Best Case
- People
- Use This
- Respect

##### Newsletter

Newsletter

[![LOGO ADUAEASY PEQUEÑO](https://www.aduaeasy.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ae/blog/aduaeasy_logo150x-8.png?width=136&height=22&name=aduaeasy_logo150x-8.png)](https://www.aduaeasy.com/)

© 2026 Aduaeasy© 2022 Todos los derechos reservados.

[*Facebook*](https://www.facebook.com/aduaeasy)[*LinkedIn*](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aduaeasy/)[*YouTube*](https://www.youtube.com/@aduaeasy) 

*Return to Top*

![](https://px.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=4633604&fmt=gif)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Diego Sahagun",
    "url" : "https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/author/redactores-aduaeasy"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2025-05-22T20:02:03.144Z",
  "datePublished" : "2025-05-22T20:02:03.000Z",
  "headline" : "Requirements for Importing Goods into Mexico",
  "image" : [ "https://www.aduaeasy.com/hubfs/Blog%20Thumbail%20(4)-2.png" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://www.aduaeasy.com/en/requirements-for-importing-goods-into-mexico",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://www.aduaeasy.com/hubfs/Aduaeasy.svg"
    },
    "name" : "Aduaeasy"
  }
}
```