MVE vs COVE: differences and when to use each

They are not the same: MVE and COVE are completely different documents

The confusion between MVE and COVE is one of the most common mistakes among importers. Although both are transmitted to VUCEM and relate to goods value, they are different documents, signed by different parties, with different purposes.

COVE: Electronic Value Certificate

The COVE is the electronic document supporting the commercial invoice. It is generated and signed by the customs broker with their VUCEM digital seal. It contains invoice data: goods description, quantity, unit price, total, supplier and buyer data. VUCEM assigns a Value Acknowledgment Number.

MVE: Electronic Value Declaration

The MVE is the importer's declaration of the customs value. It is signed by the importer with their e.firma. It includes not only the invoice price but also additions, deductions, valuation method and related-party status. VUCEM assigns an MNVA number.

Comparison

• COVE: signed by customs broker with VUCEM digital seal | MVE: signed by importer with e.firma
• COVE: supports invoice value | MVE: declares customs value (invoice + additions - deductions)
• COVE: contains commercial invoice data | MVE: contains complete valuation analysis
• COVE: generates a Value Acknowledgment Number | MVE: generates an MNVA number
• COVE: mandatory for years | Electronic MVE: mandatory by customs regime after the transition (October 31, 2026); definitive imports from January 15, 2027

How they complement each other

The complete flow is: (1) customs broker generates COVE from invoice, (2) importer generates MVE declaring complete customs value, (3) both numbers (COVE + MNVA) are integrated into the customs declaration, (4) declaration is transmitted for customs clearance.