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Shipping Goods to Brazil from the USA

Brazil Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Brazil is one of the largest economies in South America, offering high demand for consumer goods, machinery, electronics, and personal items. However, its customs procedures are known to be strict, and import duties can be high. Whether you’re relocating or exporting, this guide helps you prepare for international shipping from the USA to Brazil.

We’ll walk you through documentation, taxes, customs clearance, and how a qualified international shipping company can help reduce your international shipping costs and ensure reliable, affordable shipping.

Key Facts About Importing to Brazil

Receita Federal manages all imports to Brazil (RFB) — Brazil’s tax and customs authority.

• Brazil is not a party to any free trade agreement with the USA, so duties and taxes apply to all U.S. shipments.
• Imports are subject to Import Duty (II), IPI (Excise Tax), PIS/COFINS, and ICMS (State VAT).
• All commercial and high-value shipments must be registered in Brazil’s Siscomex system.
• Personal shipments must comply with the rules for used goods and may qualify for limited exemptions.

A professional international shipping company can help you navigate these layers of compliance and reduce your total international shipping cost.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Brazil

1. Use a Licensed Customs Broker

• Brazilian law requires that all commercial importers use a licensed customs broker.
• For personal effects, many shippers rely on an international shipping company with customs agents on the ground in Brazil.

2. Required Documents

Commercial and personal shipments must include:

• Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
• Commercial invoice with detailed product info and HS codes
• Packing list
• Import declaration (DI or DSI, via Siscomex)
• Tax ID (CNPJ for businesses / CPF for individuals)
• Import license (LI) – Required for restricted items

For personal effects:

• Copy of passport
• CPF (Brazilian Individual Tax ID)
• Proof of residence in Brazil
• Inventory list with value estimates
• Declaration of non-commercial use

Missing or inconsistent documents are a major reason for clearance delays.

3. Import Taxes and Duties

Shipments to Brazil are typically taxed as follows:

• Import Duty (II): Varies by product (usually 0–20%)
• IPI (Excise Tax): 0–15% depending on item classification
• PIS/COFINS: \~9.65% (combined social contribution tax)
• ICMS (State VAT): Ranges from 7% to 18%, depending on the destination state

These taxes are cumulative, which can make Brazil one of the more expensive destinations for international shipping unless exemptions apply.

4. Tax-Free Import for Personal Effects (Moving to Brazil)

Personal effects may be imported duty-free if:

• You are a Brazilian national returning after more than 12 months abroad
• Or, you are a foreigner obtaining permanent residency in Brazil
• Goods are used, owned for over 6 months, and not for resale
• Shipment arrives within 180 days of your entry

Required:

• CPF number
• Inventory list with detailed descriptions
• Proof of relocation/residency status

A trusted international shipping company can assist you in preparing these documents and managing clearance.

Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Restricted (Require Special Approval):

• Electronics, telecom devices – May require Anatel registration
• Medicines and supplements – Must be cleared by ANVISA
• Food and beverages – Subject to MAPA and ANVISA inspection
• Chemicals, weapons, and drones require specific licenses

Prohibited:

• Used tires and car parts (commercial)
• Narcotics and illegal drugs
• Counterfeit goods
• Offensive or obscene materials

Shipping Personal Effects to Brazil

If you're moving to Brazil, you can bring used household goods duty-free under certain conditions:

• You must be a legal resident (foreign or returning Brazilian)
• Goods must be used and declared as non-commercial
• You may not sell or transfer items for 12 months after import
• Items must arrive within 6 months of your arrival

Required Documents:

• Valid passport
• CPF number
• Proof of address in Brazil
• Detailed inventory
• Bill of Lading

Non-compliance may result in fines, delays, or confiscation of property.

Labeling & Packaging Requirements

All retail goods must comply with INMETRO and Brazilian labeling laws:

• Labels must be in Portuguese
• Must include importer name, CNPJ, product name, origin, weight, usage instructions, and expiration (if applicable)
• Electronics and toys require INMETRO certification
• Medical products need ANVISA approval

Wooden crates or pallets must be ISPM 15 compliant (heat-treated and stamped) to prevent fumigation or rejection.

Who Can Help?

Use a Brazilian Broker or an International Shipping Company

A qualified customs broker or international shipping company can:

• File Siscomex entries and classify HS codes
• Help register CPF/CNPJ details and import licenses
• Provide guidance on tax exemptions or reductions
• Offer full logistics support from the U.S. to Brazil

This ensures compliance and affordable shipping while avoiding costly delays.

Final Import Checklist for Brazil

Conclusion: Shipping to Brazil from the USA

Shipping goods to Brazil involves a complex yet manageable process, especially when planning ahead. Brazil’s multiple import taxes and strict documentation requirements make it essential to work with professionals.

An experienced international shipping company can help you comply with all rules, avoid overpaying duties, and secure affordable shipping from the U.S. to Brazil. Whether you’re sending commercial cargo or personal belongings, preparation and expertise will save you time, stress, and money.