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Shipping to the Dominican Republic from the USA

Dominican Republic Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Whether you’re shipping from the United States to the Dominican Republic for business, relocation, or personal purposes, understanding the country’s import regulations is essential. While the Dominican Republic is a significant trade partner of the U.S., it has its own customs requirements, duties, and exemptions that must be adhered to carefully.

This guide outlines the key procedures and documentation required for imports into the Dominican Republic, explaining how an experienced international shipping company can ensure fast, compliant, and affordable shipping.

Key Facts About Importing to the Dominican Republic

Imports are regulated by the Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA) — the Dominican Customs Authority.

The country participates in the CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic–Central America–United States Free Trade Agreement), allowing duty-free entry for many U.S. products.

All shipments must be declared, and duties and VAT may apply.
Used personal goods can enter under special relocation exemptions.

A professional international shipping company can help reduce errors and optimize your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to the Dominican Republic

1. Required Documentation

All imports — commercial or personal — must be accompanied by:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice or Packing list
Import declaration (DUA form)
Certificate of Origin (for CAFTA-DR tariff preferences)
Import permits or licenses (if required for restricted goods)

For personal effects:

Passport
Inventory list
Proof of residence or Dominican ID (for exemption)
Customs declaration for household goods

Incomplete or inconsistent documentation can lead to clearance delays and fines.

2. Duties, Taxes, and CAFTA-DR Preferences

Most imported goods are subject to:

Customs duties: Typically 0% to 20%, depending on the HS code
VAT (ITBIS): Standard rate of 18%
Selective consumption tax: Applies to alcohol, tobacco, luxury items, vehicles, and electronics

CAFTA-DR Benefits

Under the CAFTA-DR agreement, many goods originating in the U.S. may qualify for duty-free entry. To benefit:

The goods must meet origin requirements
The shipment must include a Certificate of Origin

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Restricted Items:

Alcohol and tobacco – Subject to quantity limits and high taxes
Firearms and ammunition – Require permits from Dominican authorities
Medications – Require import permits and prescriptions
Electronics and vehicles – Must comply with local standards and emissions regulations
Agricultural products – Subject to phytosanitary inspections

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and illegal drugs
Counterfeit goods
Hazardous waste or toxic materials
Used tires and certain secondhand goods

Shipping Personal Effects to the Dominican Republic

If you are relocating, you may qualify for duty and tax exemptions on personal household items.

Requirements:

You are a returning Dominican citizen or foreign national with permanent residency
Items are for personal use and not for resale
Goods must be used and owned before shipment
Shipment must arrive within 6 months of your return or relocation

Required Documents:

Passport
Residency proof or visa
Detailed inventory list
Customs exemption request

A reliable international shipping company can guide you through this process and help ensure you get exemptions where eligible.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements

Labels for retail products must be in Spanish.

Food, cosmetics, and supplements must include:

Ingredients and allergens
Expiry date
Net quantity
Manufacturer/importer details
Electronic items may need local certification or energy efficiency labeling
ISPM 15 compliance is required for wood packaging materials like pallets and crates

Who Can Help?

Hire an International Shipping Company

Whether you're sending commercial cargo or personal effects, a professional international shipping company can:

File the required customs forms
Determine duty rates and CAFTA-DR eligibility
Coordinate with Dominican customs brokers
Provide affordable shipping solutions via ocean or air freight

They will also advise on international shipping costs, exemptions, and best practices to ensure your cargo arrives safely and follows all relevant regulations.

Final Import Checklist for the Dominican Republic

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Commercial invoice/packing list	All shipments	Required for customs declaration
DUA import declaration	All shipments	Filed electronically with Dominican Customs
VAT (18%) + Duties (0–20%)	Most goods	Calculated on CIF + duty value
CAFTA-DR Certificate of Origin	U.S.-made goods	Submit to qualify for tariff exemptions
ISPM 15	Wood packaging	Required for sea freight shipments
Proof of residency/exemption	Personal goods	Needed to waive duties and taxes

Conclusion: Shipping to the Dominican Republic from the USA

The Dominican Republic offers strong trade ties with the U.S., thanks to CAFTA-DR, but navigating the local customs system still requires attention to detail. Whether you're relocating or exporting goods, the proper preparation can save you time and money.

A qualified international shipping company can simplify paperwork, reduce errors, and ensure affordable shipping from the USA to the Dominican Republic, giving you peace of mind and reliable delivery.