Customs Inspection in Mexico: What Is Reconocimiento Aduanero?

Reconocimiento aduanero is the inspection that Mexican customs authorities perform on goods, documentation, and transport vehicles to verify that the information declared in the pedimento (customs declaration) matches the physical merchandise. It takes place at the port of entry or exit per Article 43 of Mexico's Customs Law. The outcome is determined by the automated selection mechanism (commonly called the 'traffic light'): green means free clearance; red triggers a physical customs inspection.

The Automated Selection Mechanism

Under Article 43 of Mexico's Customs Law, once the pedimento is validated and duties are paid, the importer or customs broker must activate the automated selection mechanism. This electronic random system yields one of two results: free clearance (green) or customs inspection (red). If the first inspection finds no irregularities, goods are released. If the result is red, a second inspection by authorized private auditors is possible.

Types of Customs Inspection

• First inspection (primer reconocimiento) — Conducted by customs personnel. Involves physical inspection of goods and document review of the pedimento, invoices, certificates of origin, and other annexed documents. Maximum duration is 4 hours.
• Second inspection (segundo reconocimiento) — Performed by SAT-certified private auditors. Reviews the same elements. If findings differ from the first inspection, the second prevails.
• In-transit verification — Authorities may verify goods during domestic transport to confirm valid import documentation.
• Prior inspection (reconocimiento previo) — Voluntarily requested by the customs broker before activating the traffic light. Allows checking merchandise condition and quantity to avoid discrepancies. Not mandatory but highly recommended for high-value shipments.

What Do Inspectors Check?

• That merchandise matches the pedimento description and commercial invoice.
• That the declared tariff classification is correct.
• That the declared value is consistent with transaction value.
• Compliance with non-tariff regulations (NOMs, permits, countervailing duties).
• That quantity and weight match declarations.
• That country of origin corresponds to presented documents.
• That transport vehicles do not contain undeclared merchandise.

Consequences of Irregularities

If authorities detect irregularities during inspection, consequences include: merchandise detention until the issue is resolved, precautionary seizure for serious violations (prohibited goods, false documentation, significant undervaluation), fines ranging from 70% to 100% of the commercial value, and in extreme cases, goods become federal property. The importer has 10 business days to present evidence and arguments after the administrative proceeding begins.

How to Prepare for a Customs Inspection

• Ensure the tariff classification is correct — misclassification is the most common error.
• Verify that packing list quantities and weights exactly match the pedimento.
• Have all original certificates and permits ready: certificate of origin, NOMs, COFEPRIS permits, SEMARNAT permits, etc.
• Confirm that the declared value is defensible with invoices, contracts, and payment receipts.
• For regulated products, verify labeling compliance with applicable standards.
• Request a prior inspection from your customs broker for high-value or first-time shipments.

How Camtom Helps Reduce Customs Risks

The best way to prepare for a customs inspection is to ensure your tariff classification, value, and documentation are correct from the start. Camtom uses artificial intelligence to classify your products with 95% accuracy, identify applicable non-tariff regulations, and verify that your documentation is complete before goods reach the port.

Want to reduce your risk of detention at customs? Try Camtom for free and verify your product classifications before shipping.