International · CR

How to Ship to Costa Rica from the US

Costa Rica is a top Central American shipping destination from the US, driven by a large expat community, a growing middle class, and robust tech-sector demand. Correos de Costa Rica handles USPS-delivered mail, but express services like DHL and FedEx offer more reliable transit and customs clearance through Juan Santamaría International Airport.

Costa Rica's customs authority (TICA) charges general sales tax (13% IVS) plus applicable tariffs on imports. The duty-free de minimis threshold for personal-use goods ordered online is approximately $500 USD — shipments below this often clear with minimal scrutiny under the simplified import regime (TIES).

Typical 1 lb cost

$40–$60 USD

Typical transit

4–12 business days

Carrier Options to Costa Rica

DHL Express Worldwide

Top choice for Costa Rica. 2-4 business days. Strong network in San José.

FedEx International Priority

2-4 business days. Good for high-value or business shipments.

UPS Worldwide Expedited

3-5 business days. Delivers to major metro areas reliably.

USPS Priority Mail International

7–14 business days. Delivered by Correos de Costa Rica. Affordable but slower.

Customs Forms Required

CN22 for items under $400. CN23 + commercial invoice for higher-value packages.

Commonly Prohibited Items

  • ✕Firearms and weapons without prior authorization
  • ✕Illegal drugs
  • ✕Pesticides and herbicides without SENASA permit
  • ✕Live plants and seeds without phytosanitary certificate
  • ✕Fresh meat, poultry, and dairy without SENASA permit

Costa Rica-Specific Shipping Tips

  • 💡 Under ~$500 USD declared value for personal imports, Costa Rica often applies simplified clearance (TIES) — confirm with your carrier
  • 💡 IVS (13% sales tax) applies to most imports regardless of value
  • 💡 Addresses in Costa Rica can be nonstandard (use landmarks) — always include a phone number for delivery
  • 💡 DHL and FedEx are far more reliable than USPS/Correos for time-sensitive shipments
  • 💡 Many Costa Ricans use Casillero (US-based mailbox) services like Aerocasillas or AmeriCase as a Miami intermediary

Frequently asked questions

How long does shipping to Costa Rica take?
DHL and FedEx: 2–4 business days. USPS Priority Mail International: 1–2 weeks via Correos de Costa Rica.
Is there a duty-free threshold for personal imports?
Imports under approximately $500 USD for personal use may qualify for simplified customs (TIES). Above that, full duties + 13% IVS apply. Commercial shipments have lower or no de minimis.
Why do many Costa Ricans use casillero services?
US-based mailbox services (casilleros) give shoppers a Miami address, then forward packages to Costa Rica — often cheaper than shipping directly from a US retailer.
Can I ship electronics to Costa Rica?
Yes. Electronics are dutiable (typically 5–15% tariff + 13% IVS). Include the original purchase invoice and serial numbers.
What's the best carrier for Costa Rica?
DHL Express is the most recommended for reliability and customs expertise. FedEx is comparable. Avoid USPS for time-sensitive shipments.

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