Shipping Goods to Latvia from the USA

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

Latvia, a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, is a growing logistics gateway to Northern and Eastern Europe. Whether you're relocating or exporting products, understanding Latvia’s import procedures will help ensure a smooth shipping experience from the USA and help manage international shipping costs efficiently.

This guide outlines the customs procedures, documentation, tax exemptions, and how a professional international shipping company can help provide fast and affordable shipping to Latvia.

Shipping to Latvia from USA

Key Facts About Importing to Latvia

Latvia adheres to EU customs laws and VAT regulations.
Goods shipped from the U.S. are subject to customs duties, Value Added Tax (VAT), and potential excise taxes.
Businesses must obtain an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number to import goods.
Individuals relocating to Latvia may be eligible for duty-free importation of household goods.

Partnering with a skilled international shipping company ensures compliance, cost control, and efficient logistics.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Latvia

1. Register for an EORI Number (For Business Imports)

An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for all EU business imports.
Individuals shipping personal goods do not need an EORI.

2. Required Documentation

To clear goods through Latvian customs, you’ll need:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice (listing goods, values, HS codes, and origin)
Packing list
Import declaration (SAD – Single Administrative Document)
Certificate of Origin (for trade agreement preferences)
Import licenses (for restricted items)

For personal shipments:

Passport
Latvian visa or residence permit
Proof of residence outside the EU
Inventory list
Declaration of non-commercial use

Ensure all documents are consistent with the actual contents to avoid customs delays.

3. Duties, VAT, and Exemptions

#Standard Tax Rates:

Customs duties: Vary from 0–12%, depending on classification
VAT: Latvia's standard VAT rate is 21%, calculated on CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight) + duty
Excise duties: Apply to alcohol, tobacco, fuel, and luxury items

#Personal Exemptions:

Individuals relocating to Latvia from outside the EU may import used household goods duty- and VAT-free if:

You have lived outside the EU for 12+ months
You're establishing permanent residency in Latvia
Goods are used and owned for over 6 months
Shipment arrives within 12 months of your move
You do not sell the goods within 12 months

A qualified international shipping company can help you file for exemptions and reduce your international shipping cost.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Restricted Items:

Medications – Personal use only, with prescriptions
Food, plants, and animal products – Require certificates
Alcohol and tobacco – Quantity limits and excise taxes apply
Firearms – Must be licensed and declared
Electronics – Must meet EU CE marking standards

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and illegal drugs
Weapons and explosives (unless licensed)
Counterfeit or pirated goods
Hazardous waste
Protected wildlife products under CITES

Shipping Personal Effects to Latvia

If you're relocating to Latvia, you can ship your personal belongings with tax exemptions if you meet the EU relocation criteria. Goods must:

For personal use only
Be used and owned for 6+ months
Be imported within 12 months of arrival
Remain with you (not sold) for at least 12 months

Required Documents:

Passport and residence visa
Proof of previous non-EU residence
Proof of new Latvian address
Detailed inventory list
Customs exemption declaration

Packaging and Labeling Requirements

Goods entering Latvia must meet EU import and labeling standards, including:

CE marking for electronics, toys, and appliances
Product labels in Latvian or another EU language
Ingredient and nutritional details for food
Safety warnings and usage instructions
ISPM 15 certification for all wood packaging (pallets, crates)

Who Can Help?

Work With an International Shipping Company

Hiring a professional international shipping company ensures:

Correct classification of goods using HS codes
Electronic submission of customs declarations
Proper paperwork for VAT exemptions and CE compliance
Safe freight routing and delivery in Latvia
Flexible, affordable shipping solutions via sea or air

Final Import Checklist for Latvia

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	Business imports	Required for customs declaration
SAD import declaration	All shipments	Must be filed with Latvian Customs
VAT (21%) + duty (0–12%)	Most imports	Based on the CIF value
CE marking	Electronics, machinery	Mandatory for EU sales and usage
ISPM 15	Wood packaging	Required for crates and pallets
Proof of relocation	Personal effects	Needed for exemption from taxes

Conclusion: Shipping to Latvia from the USA

Latvia offers efficient customs clearance as part of the European Union, but following the correct procedures is crucial to avoid costly errors. Whether you’re relocating or exporting products, a well-planned shipment ensures compliance and cost savings.

A trusted international shipping company can help minimize international shipping costs, manage VAT and documentation, and offer affordable shipping from the USA to Latvia.