Shipping Goods to Portugal from the USA

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

Portugal, a key gateway to the European Union, is a popular destination for both personal and commercial imports from the United States. Whether you're shipping household goods, commercial cargo, or online orders, adhering to Portuguese and EU import regulations is essential.

This guide outlines the steps to prepare for shipping from the United States to Portugal, including customs procedures, taxes, and required documentation. You'll also learn how an experienced international shipping company can help reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping. Key Facts About Importing to Portugal

Portugal adheres to European Union customs rules and is part of the European Union's Single Market.
Imports are handled by Portuguese Customs (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira).
All goods arriving from outside the EU are subject to customs clearance, duties, and VAT (23%).
Personal effects may be imported duty-free under specific conditions.
EORI registration is required for commercial shipments.

An experienced international shipping company can ensure your shipment complies with EU standards and help you estimate your total international shipping cost before dispatch.

Shipping to Portugal from USA

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Portugal

1. Get an EORI Number (For Commercial Shipments)

If you’re a business shipping goods into the EU, you’ll need an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number issued by any EU member state.

This number is required for customs declarations and tracking purposes.
Individuals shipping personal items generally do not need an EORI.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

For both personal and commercial shipments, you’ll need:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice (with product description and HS codes)
Packing list
Customs declaration (Single Administrative Document – SAD)
Certificate of Origin (optional for preference agreements)
Import license or special permits (if required)

For personal effects:

Passport copy
Inventory list
Proof of EU residence or Portuguese visa
Declaration of ownership

Consistent values and descriptions are critical to avoid clearance issues.

3. Understand Duties, VAT, and Tax Exemptions

Imported goods from the U.S. are subject to:

Customs duties: Based on EU tariff schedules (ranges vary by product)
VAT: Portugal’s standard rate is 23%, calculated on the CIF value plus duty
Excise duties: Applied to alcohol, tobacco, and fuel

Personal effects may qualify for duty and VAT exemption if:

Items are used and personally owned
You are moving your primary residence to Portugal
Goods are imported within 12 months of the move

A qualified international shipping company can help you calculate the full international shipping cost, including all taxes and exemptions.

4. Know Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Portugal adheres to EU regulations regarding prohibited and restricted items. These include:

Weapons, explosives, and ammunition
Narcotics and controlled substances
Plants, seeds, and animal products (require phytosanitary/veterinary certificates)
Electronic and wireless devices (may require CE marking)

Labeling Requirements:

Labels must be in Portuguese
Must include product name, origin, composition, usage, and safety instructions
Expiry/manufacture dates are required for food, cosmetics, and drugs
Metric units are mandatory

Wood packaging must comply with ISPM 15 regulations and be properly marked or stamped.

Shipping Personal Effects to Portugal

If you're relocating to Portugal, you may bring used personal belongings and household goods duty-free.

To Qualify for Tax-Free Entry:

Goods must be used and personally owned
You must provide proof of residency change to Portugal
The shipment must arrive within 12 months of your relocation

Required Documents:

Valid passport
Inventory list
Proof of residency (lease, utility bill, visa)
Declaration confirming non-commercial use

New items or large quantities may be subject to full import taxes.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Consumer goods shipped into Portugal must follow EU standards:

Labels must be in Portuguese
Metric units for weight/volume
Safety and usage information (where applicable)
Country of origin and manufacturer details

Wooden crates and pallets must be ISPM 15 compliant (heat-treated and stamped). Non-compliant wood may be refused entry.

Who Can Help?

Use a Licensed Customs Broker or International Shipping Company

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

File electronic customs declarations
Verify tariff classifications and tax rates
Assist with CE labeling and documentation
Ensure proper clearance and local delivery in Portugal

Partnering with experts helps you avoid fines, delays, and hidden fees while ensuring affordable shipping from the U.S.

Final Import Checklist for Portugal

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	Commercial shipments	Register before customs entry
Customs declaration (SAD)	All goods	Required for customs clearance
Customs duties	Most imports	Based on EU tariff schedules
VAT (23%)	All goods	Calculated on CIF + duties
Labeling in Portuguese	Retail products	Mandatory for clearance
ISPM 15 packaging	Wood materials	Required for pallets and crates
Personal documents	Household moves	Required to qualify for tax exemption

Conclusion: Shipping to Portugal from the USA

Portugal’s EU membership means well-defined customs rules, but that also requires close attention to detail. Whether you’re sending goods for business or relocating your home, documentation, labeling, and taxes must be handled carefully.

An experienced international shipping company can reduce your international shipping cost, guide you through customs, and deliver a seamless, affordable shipping experience from the USA to Portugal.