Box Shipping - Import Regulations in Costa Rica

Import Regulations in Costa Rica

The required documents are passport (include all pages) for all members of the family; inventory (in Spanish or English) indicating value declared for customs and showing complete contents of cartons and the exact number of cartons in the liftvan or container (it should include brand name, serial #, model and price of the electronic equipment and electrical appliances); document stating insurance coverage; letter authorizing destination agent to clear shipment.

Please note that all documents must be completed originals. costs for any delays due to incomplete or incorrect documents will be charged to the customer.

Personal effects and used household goods are subject to import taxes and duties, except for customers who are diplomats, members of government or international organizations and Costa Rican citizens who have lived a minimum of 24 months abroad (the latter one still pays taxes, but no duties). The shipments are inspected.

Here are the dutiable/restricted items: new items (subject to very high duties and an original receipt required); large appliances (not exceed one of each item); computers subject to import regulations; Purchase Invoice, Instruction Booklets, and original Ocean Bill of Lading/Air Waybill required.

The items that are prohibited to import: alcoholic beverages (only small quantities for personal use); narcotics and drugs; explosives; used tires; pornographic or subversive material; animal or agricultural products, plants, medicines, and large quantities of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and food (a special permit required).

Weapons and ammunition require an original invoice and registration at origin. A special permit at the Firearm and Explosive Department must be applied for. Note that import tax is applicable. It must be for personal use only.

When shipping to Costa Rica the shipper will meet the following charges as:
THC - $30.00 (per bill of lading)
Handling - $60.00 (per bill of lading)