Customs
Customs Clearance
The complete set of procedures and formalities required for goods to legally enter or exit a country through customs.
The complete set of procedures and formalities required for goods to legally enter or exit a country through customs.
Customs clearance (despacho aduanero) in Mexico is the comprehensive process through which goods comply with all customs formalities for their legal entry or exit from the country. It encompasses everything from filing the pedimento to the release of goods, including payment of duties and customs inspection when applicable.
In Mexico, customs clearance can only be performed by a licensed customs broker (agente aduanal) or an authorized customs representative (apoderado aduanal).
Average clearance times in Mexico vary by port, type of goods, and whether an inspection is required. At efficient ports, clearance without inspection can be completed in under 24 hours.
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Learn more→Customs Declaration (Pedimento)
The official document filed with Mexican customs that covers the entry or exit of goods from Mexico, prepared and submitted by a licensed customs broker.
CustomsCustoms Broker
A licensed individual authorized by Mexico's tax authority (SAT) to process customs clearance of goods on behalf of importers and exporters.
CustomsCustoms Inspection
The physical and documentary examination of goods performed by Mexican customs authorities to verify they match the information declared in the pedimento.
CustomsAutomated Selection Mechanism
Mexico's random and risk-based system that determines whether goods will undergo customs inspection (red light) or be released without inspection (green light).
CustomsPedimento Pre-validation
A mandatory electronic verification process that validates pedimento data against customs system rules before official submission to the customs authority.