International · BR

How to Ship to Brazil from the US

Brazil has the world's most complex customs and highest import taxes of any major market. Duties can total 60%+ of package value, customs clearance is slow, and loss rates via postal services are higher than most destinations. This is a challenging destination for US sellers.

Correios (Brazilian post) has a notorious reputation for delays and package loss. Private carriers (DHL, FedEx) are more reliable but more expensive.

Typical 1 lb cost

$35-$75 USD

Typical transit

5-30 business days

Carrier Options to Brazil

DHL Express Worldwide

4-7 business days. Most reliable.

FedEx International Priority

4-7 business days. Solid coverage of major Brazilian cities.

UPS Worldwide Expedited

5-8 business days.

USPS Priority Mail International

10-30 business days. Correios final delivery — frequently loses packages.

Customs Forms Required

Commercial invoice mandatory. CN23 + CPF (Brazilian tax ID) for recipient.

Commonly Prohibited Items

✕Used goods (heavily restricted)
✕Certain electronics without ANATEL certification (for commercial resale)
✕Drugs without ANVISA approval
✕Weapons and ammunition
✕Counterfeit goods (heavy penalties)

Brazil-Specific Shipping Tips

💡 Brazilian duties + taxes easily exceed 60% of item value + shipping — recipients get bill-shocked
💡 Include recipient's CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) on all customs forms — required for clearance
💡 Avoid USPS — Correios delivery is unreliable and customs delays compound the issue
💡 Brazilian addresses include CEP (8-digit postal code) — format: 12345-678
💡 Avoid shipping during Carnival (February) and Brazilian holidays — extreme delays

Frequently asked questions

Why are Brazilian import taxes so high?

Historical protectionism. Combined duty + tax + ICMS (state VAT) typically totals 60%+ of package value. Consumers expect this and budget accordingly.

What's CPF and why do I need it?

CPF = Brazilian national tax ID. Customs requires recipient's CPF on import documentation. Without it, packages sit in customs indefinitely.

Is USPS safe to Brazil?

No. Correios has very high loss rates. Use DHL, FedEx, or UPS — expensive but reliable.

How long does customs clearance take in Brazil?

Simple shipments: 3-7 days. Complex/commercial: 2-4 weeks. Delays are common.

Can I ship electronics to Brazil?

Personal use: yes, with declaration. Commercial resale: requires ANATEL certification. Don't ship commercial quantities of uncertified electronics.