Shipping to Mexico

Be it cars, plastic jars, or anything in between, moving them from UK to Mexico is easy, reliable, and fully supported with YFT from start to finish. We take care of everything, from secure transport and customs documentation to duty guidance and safe delivery, making sure your goods glide across borders without hassle. For both countries, we arrange flexible freight options, trusted partnerships with carriers, and expert experience in import and export processes to provide a seamless solution specifically matched to your shipment size and requirements.

Import Requirements

To ship goods into Mexico, the importer will require:

  • RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) – Mexican tax ID
  • INCOTERMS agreed with seller
  • Commercial Invoice (in Spanish or bilingual preferred)
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
  • HS Codes
  • Qualification of importer – In many cases, the importer must be registered in Mexico’s “Padrón de Importadores”

For some regulated products, you may need:

  • NOM (Mexican Official Standards) compliance
  • Sanitary/health permits (COFEPRIS)
  • Agricultural permits (SENASICA)
  • Energy/environmental approvals (CRE, SEMARNAT)


Exporter Requirements

To export goods from Mexico, the exporter requires:

  • RFC (tax ID)
  • Exporter registration
  • Electronic export declaration (pedimento de exportación)
  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • HS codes
  • Any product-specific permits (e.g., manufactured goods with dual-use concerns)


Mexico’s Free Trade Agreements

Mexico has one of the world’s largest FTA networks:

  • USMCA (USA/Canada)
  • EU–Mexico FTA
  • Japan
  • Pacific Alliance

This often reduces duties for buyers in those regions.


Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions


Do I need a Mexican company to import goods?

No — you can import directly if you register appropriately, or you can appoint a Mexican customs broker to act as your agent.


How can I get 0% duties under trade agreements?

Provide a valid Certificate of Origin or a EUR1 Certificate to be issued.


How long does clearance take?

Air freight 24–72 hours typically. Ocean containers: a few days to a week depending on port congestion and inspections.


Shipping Methods to Mexico

 Air Freight

  • Fastest for small/urgent shipments
  • Used for electronics, high-value goods, and perishable items


Major ports & airports

  • Manzanillo — largest Pacific container port
  • Lázaro Cárdenas — deep-water, growing cargo hub
  • Veracruz — strategic Gulf port
  • Altamira — industrial port near Tampico
  • Air hubs — MEX (Mexico City), GDL (Guadalajara), MTY (Monterrey)


Costs & fees to expect on imports

  • Customs duties (varies by HS code)
  • IVA (Value Added Tax) — typically 16% on imports
  • Customs broker fees, handling, and port charges
  • Inland transport, storage, and potential demurrage


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