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Shipping to Morocco from the USA

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

Morocco, located at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, has become a growing destination for American exports and personal shipments. Whether you're shipping from the USA for commercial purposes or relocating with household goods, understanding Moroccan import regulations is crucial for smooth clearance and affordable shipping.

This guide explains Morocco's import process, including documentation, taxes, restricted items, and how working with a licensed international shipping company can help manage your international shipping costs effectively.

Key Facts About Importing to Morocco

Imports are regulated by the Moroccan Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes (ADII).

Most goods are subject to customs duties and VAT (20%).
Morocco has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the U.S., allowing reduced or zero duties on eligible goods.
Local authorities enforce product conformity and labeling.
Personal effects may enter duty-free under specific conditions.

A professional international shipping company can guide you through the requirements while helping reduce your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Morocco

1. Appoint a Moroccan Importer or Customs Broker

To import into Morocco:

Businesses must have a registered importer or Moroccan partner.
Individuals can appoint a customs broker or rely on their international shipping company to handle documentation and clearance.

2. Prepare Required Documentation

The following documents are commonly required:

Commercial invoice (showing product description, value, HS code)
Packing list
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Certificate of Origin (Form FTA, if claiming U.S.–Morocco FTA benefits)
Import license (for restricted items)
Customs declaration (DAU)
Delivery order

For personal effects:

Passport copy
Inventory list
Proof of residency or relocation
Residence visa or long-stay permit (if applicable)

All documents must be consistent. Incorrect values or mismatches may cause delays or fines.

3. Understand Duties, VAT, and Taxes

Imports into Morocco may be subject to:

Customs duty: Typically 2.5% to 40%, depending on product category
VAT (Value-Added Tax): Usually 20% on CIF value + duty
Parafiscal taxes: Small surcharges on certain items

Goods qualifying under the U.S.–Morocco Free Trade Agreement may enter duty-free with a valid Certificate of Origin.

An international shipping company can provide a pre-shipment estimate of your total international shipping cost, including duties and taxes.

4. Know Restricted and Regulated Goods

Some goods require pre-approvals or are prohibited. Common categories include:

Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
Food products and supplements
Cosmetics and personal care products
Textiles and apparel (with labeling rules)
Electronics and communication equipment
Used vehicles and machinery

Morocco enforces labeling standards, including:

Product name and specifications
Country of origin
Importer/manufacturer contact
Safety instructions and usage
Expiration/manufacture dates for food, cosmetics, and medicines

Labeling must appear in French or Arabic for retail distribution.

Shipping Personal Effects to Morocco

Foreign nationals and returning Moroccan residents can import used household goods and personal belongings under customs exemptions.

Eligibility Requirements:

You are relocating for work, study, or permanent residence
Goods are used, not intended for sale
Shipment arrives within 6 months of your relocation

Required Documents:

Passport
Moroccan ID or visa
Inventory list
Rental contract or proof of residence in Morocco
Shipping documents

New items or quantities deemed commercial may be subject to tax.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Labeling for goods entering Morocco must be clear, durable, and include:

Product description
Country of origin
Weight and volume (metric)
Safety warnings
Manufacturer/importer details
Expiry/manufacture dates for perishables

Wooden pallets and crates must comply with ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and stamped). Non-compliant wood packaging may be rejected.

Who Can Help?

Work With a Licensed Moroccan Broker or International Shipping Company

A customs broker or full-service international shipping company can:

Prepare customs declarations and documentation
Verify product compliance and labeling
Secure import permits (if needed)
Coordinate final-mile delivery in Morocco

This partnership ensures affordable shipping, accurate tax assessments, and regulatory compliance.

Final Import Checklist for Morocco

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Customs broker/importer	All shipments	Required to process clearance
Commercial invoice	All goods	Must match shipping documents
Certificate of Origin (FTA)	U.S.-made goods	Allows for duty-free access under U.S.-Morocco FTA
Customs duties (2.5%–40%)	Most goods	Based on tariff classification
VAT (20%)	All goods	Applied to CIF + duties
French or Arabic labeling	Retail products	Mandatory for clearance
ISPM 15 packaging	Wood materials	Required for pallets and crates
Personal relocation documents	Household goods	Needed to qualify for duty-free entry

Conclusion: Shipping to Morocco from the USA

Morocco's import system combines regional regulations with strict customs enforcement. Whether you're importing for business or personal use, clear documentation and local knowledge are essential.

An experienced international shipping company can ensure your shipment complies with Moroccan rules, reduces delays, and helps you manage your total international shipping cost, offering truly affordable shipping from the U.S. to Morocco.