Also known as: Reference price, Estimated price, Customs reference value
A reference value published by the Mexican customs authority (SAT) for sensitive or high-risk-of-undervaluation goods, used as a minimum comparison parameter against the declared value in customs entries to detect potential valuation irregularities.
The estimated merchandise price is a customs control mechanism through which SAT establishes reference values for goods that historically show a high incidence of undervaluation. When the value declared in a customs entry is significantly below the published estimated price for that tariff code, customs may trigger additional verification procedures, including merchandise detention or determination of omitted duties.
Estimated prices are founded on Article 151, Section VII of Mexico's Customs Law and the General Foreign Trade Rules. SAT periodically publishes and updates the list of goods subject to estimated prices.
An importer whose declared value falls below the estimated price is not necessarily at fault: they can demonstrate with documentation (invoice, contract, accounting records, catalog prices) that the price actually paid is correct. However, they should be prepared for more rigorous review of their operation by the authority.
Customs Value
The monetary amount on which import duties are calculated, determined according to the WTO Valuation Agreement with transaction value as the primary method.
ValuationTransaction Value
The price actually paid or payable for imported goods, adjusted as prescribed by the WTO Valuation Agreement. It is the primary method for determining customs value.
RegulationsEstimated Price (Reference Price)
A reference price published by Mexico's SAT for certain imported goods, used as a parameter to detect potential undervaluation in customs declarations.
RegulationsSensitive Goods
Products whose import or export is subject to special controls by authorities due to their nature, strategic value, impact on health, security, or national competitiveness.