Shipping to Puerto Rico from the U.S. Mainland

Puerto Rico Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so shipping from the USA is technically considered a domestic shipment. However, there are still specific rules, declarations, and tax requirements that apply. Whether you’re relocating or running a business, understanding these procedures can help you avoid unnecessary delays or costs.

This guide explains what you need to know about shipping to Puerto Rico, including taxes, documentation, product labeling, and how a reliable international shipping company can support affordable shipping and help manage your international shipping costs, especially for large or commercial shipments.

Key Facts About Shipping to Puerto Rico

No customs duties apply since Puerto Rico is part of the U.S. customs territory.

Shipments must comply with Puerto Rico's tax and declaration rules.
A SURI account is required for businesses to remit Use Tax.
Retail goods must meet labeling requirements in Spanish and English.
Personal effects may be shipped freely but are subject to inspection.

Although not truly "international," it’s often managed by international shipping companies because ocean freight to Puerto Rico follows many of the same logistics channels.

Step-by-Step: How to Ship to Puerto Rico

1. Choose a Shipping Method and Carrier

While it’s a U.S. domestic zone, shipping methods include:

LCL ocean freight (Less-than-Container Load)
FCL ocean freight (Full Container Load)
Air freight
Parcel and courier services

An international shipping company can help determine the most affordable shipping method based on your cargo size and delivery time.

2. Prepare Required Shipping Documents

You won’t need U.S. export documents, but some paperwork is still required:

Bill of Lading
Commercial invoice or packing list
Destination address and contact info
Proof of value or purchase (especially for new goods)

For businesses:

SURI registration with the Puerto Rico Department of Treasury (Hacienda)
Use the Tax declaration via the SURI portal

While there are no duties, Use Tax (similar to sales tax) is typically 11.5% for taxable goods.

3. Understand Taxes and Fees

Puerto Rico doesn’t impose customs duties, but you still need to account for:

Use Tax (11.5%): Applies to most imported goods (unless exempt)
Excise Tax: On alcohol, tobacco, motor vehicles, and select luxury items
Broker or handling fees: May apply for ocean freight shipments

A seasoned international shipping company can provide a breakdown of your total international shipping cost, including any taxes payable upon delivery.

4. Comply With Product Labeling Rules

Consumer goods imported into Puerto Rico must meet labeling requirements that include:

Spanish and/or bilingual labeling
Product name and description
Net contents and measurements in U.S. customary units
Manufacturer and distributor details
Instructions and safety warnings (if applicable)
Country of origin

Non-compliant labels may delay retail distribution or clearance by local authorities.

Shipping Personal Effects to Puerto Rico

If you're relocating to Puerto Rico, you can ship used personal items, furniture, and household goods without paying duties. However, you may still owe Use Tax if items are new or exceed the exemption limits.

To Avoid Use Tax:

Goods must be used and personally owned
You must declare items truthfully
You may be asked to submit a Declaration of Value or invoices

Documents Needed:

Packing list or inventory
Photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
Proof of move or change of residence

Most shipments are delivered directly unless flagged for inspection by Puerto Rico authorities.

Who Can Help?

Work With a Freight Forwarder or International Shipping Company

Although Puerto Rico is part of the U.S., it utilizes specialized logistics hubs and freight lanes that intersect with international shipping routes. That’s why working with an international shipping company makes sense, especially for:

Ocean freight shipments
Household relocations
Commercial inventory and trade goods

These experts can help reduce your international shipping costs, handle port logistics, and ensure affordable shipping to Puerto Rico.

Final Shipping Checklist for Puerto Rico

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
No customs duties	All shipments	No need to pay U.S. or Puerto Rican import duties
Use Tax (11.5%)	Taxable goods	Declared and paid via the SURI portal (for businesses)
Commercial invoice	Commercial or new goods	Should show item value and quantity
Labeling in Spanish/English	Consumer products	Must meet local packaging standards
Packing list/inventory	Personal effects	Helps prevent issues with delivery or inspection
SURI registration	Businesses	Required for compliance and tax filing

Conclusion: Shipping to Puerto Rico from the USA

Shipping to Puerto Rico is simpler than shipping to foreign countries, but it still involves taxes, labeling, and logistics planning, especially for freight. If you're handling larger cargo or setting up commercial operations, a reliable international shipping company can help reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping from the U.S. mainland.