Shipping Goods to Costa Rica from the USA

Costa Rica Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Costa Rica is a popular destination for U.S. exports, tourism, and relocation. Known for its stable economy and eco-conscious lifestyle, Costa Rica maintains strong trade relations with the United States through the CAFTA-DR free trade agreement. Whether you're shipping from the USA for commercial or personal reasons, understanding the country’s import regulations will help you avoid delays and reduce your international shipping costs.

This guide outlines everything U.S. shippers need to know about international shipping to Costa Rica, including documentation, taxes, restricted items, and how a trusted international shipping company can provide safe and affordable shipping services.

Key Facts About Importing to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a member of the CAFTA-DR (U.S.–Central America–Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement).

Most goods imported from the U.S. are eligible for reduced or duty-free treatment under CAFTA.
Imports are regulated by Costa Rica's Customs Authority (Dirección General de Aduanas).
Both individuals and businesses can import goods; however, commercial importers are required to register as taxpayers in Costa Rica.

Working with a reliable international shipping company simplifies this process and helps lower your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Costa Rica

1. Use a Licensed Customs Broker

Costa Rican customs law requires that all imports be cleared through a licensed customs broker.
Many international shipping companies collaborate with local brokers to facilitate seamless customs processing.

2. Required Documents

To clear customs in Costa Rica, you’ll typically need:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice with item description and value
Packing list
Certificate of Origin (Form CAFTA)
Import Declaration (DUA)
Import permit or sanitary certificate (for restricted goods)

For personal effects:

Passport
Residency permit or visa
Inventory list
Proof of relocation (e.g., employment or housing contract)
Declaration of non-commercial use

Inaccurate or incomplete documentation is a common reason for customs delays and fines.

3. Import Duties and Taxes

Goods imported into Costa Rica are subject to:

Import duty: 0%–15%, depending on the product
Sales tax (VAT): Standard rate of 13%
Selective Consumption Tax: Applies to luxury items like vehicles, alcohol, and tobacco

CAFTA-DR Tariff Benefits

If your goods are made in the U.S. and you provide a valid Certificate of Origin, you may qualify for reduced or zero import duty under CAFTA.

Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Restricted Items (Require Authorization):

Medications and medical devices – Ministry of Health approval
Food, plants, and animals – Ministry of Agriculture or SENASA clearance
Firearms – Requires police permit
Electronics – May require SUTEL registration (for telecom devices)

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and controlled substances
Counterfeit goods
Explosives or hazardous chemicals (without a license)
Pornographic material

Shipping Personal Effects to Costa Rica

You may ship used household goods to Costa Rica when relocating. However, Costa Rica does not automatically exempt duties or taxes on personal shipments unless:

You are a Costa Rican citizen returning home
Or, you are a foreigner with permanent residency status

Required for Personal Shipments:

Passport and visa
Detailed inventory list in Spanish or English
Proof of residency
Declaration of non-commercial use

Duty-free status may be granted based on discretion and supporting evidence. A qualified international shipping company can help reduce unnecessary international shipping costs by managing the exemption process.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Imported consumer goods must comply with Costa Rican labeling regulations:

Labels must be in Spanish
Must include product name, manufacturer, origin, expiration/manufacture date (if applicable), and usage instructions
Electrical goods must indicate voltage (Costa Rica uses 120V)
Wood packaging must comply with ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and stamped)

Who Can Help?

Work With a Broker or International Shipping Company

To simplify your shipment, it’s best to hire a:

Licensed Costa Rican customs broker, and
U.S.-based international shipping company familiar with CAFTA rules and local entry procedures

They can:

Prepare and file customs declarations
Secure CAFTA duty benefits
Handle import licenses and labeling checks
Offer door-to-door services for affordable shipping from the U.S.

Final Import Checklist for Costa Rica

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
DUA (Import Declaration)	All shipments	Required for customs clearance
CAFTA Certificate of Origin	Commercial goods	Reduces or eliminates import duty
Sales tax (13%)	Most imports	Applied to CIF value + duty
ISPM 15 compliance	Wood packaging	Mandatory for sea freight shipments
Spanish labeling	Retail products	Required for consumer goods
Residency documentation	Personal effects	Needed for exemption consideration

Conclusion: Shipping to Costa Rica from the USA

Costa Rica’s proximity to the U.S. and favorable trade policies make it a strategic destination for both exporters and movers. However, navigating customs requirements and tariffs still requires careful planning and attention to detail.

Partnering with a trusted international shipping company ensures full compliance with local rules and keeps your international shipping costs low. Whether you’re sending commercial freight or household goods, professional assistance will ensure smooth and affordable shipping from the U.S. to Costa Rica.