International · MX

How to Ship to Mexico from the US

Mexico is a major shipping destination for US sellers — cross-border volume is massive but customs can be unpredictable. DHL and FedEx dominate US→Mexico shipping because USPS hands off to Mexican postal service Correos de México, which has slower and less reliable delivery than private courier networks.

Mexico charges 16% IVA (value-added tax) on imports plus 0-20% duty depending on the item. The de minimis threshold is $50 USD (duty-free under this amount, but IVA still applies above $1).

Typical 1 lb cost

$15-$30 USD

Typical transit

2-15 business days

Carrier Options to Mexico

DHL Express Worldwide

Best for Mexico. 1-3 business days. Strong customs network.

FedEx International Priority

1-3 business days. Competitive with DHL. Good tracking.

UPS Worldwide Expedited

2-5 business days. Slightly cheaper for heavier packages.

USPS Priority Mail International

6-15 business days. Cheap but slow. Final delivery by Correos de México — tracking stops at the handoff for most packages.

Customs Forms Required

CN22 for items under $400. Commercial invoice + packing list for all commercial shipments.

Commonly Prohibited Items

  • ✕Firearms and ammunition
  • ✕Certain alcohol (requires import license)
  • ✕Illegal drugs and CBD above 1% THC
  • ✕Used clothing (commercial quantities restricted)
  • ✕Certain seeds and plant products (agricultural restrictions)

Mexico-Specific Shipping Tips

  • 💡 Use DHL or FedEx — USPS handoffs to Correos de México add 1-2 weeks and frequent delivery issues
  • 💡 Address accuracy is critical — include colonia (neighborhood name) and municipio (municipality)
  • 💡 Receiver's CURP (Mexican national ID) is often required for commercial imports
  • 💡 For values under $50 USD, shipments are typically duty-free but 16% IVA still applies
  • 💡 Avoid USPS for anything valuable or time-sensitive — last-mile handoff creates tracking blind spot

Frequently asked questions

Why is USPS slow to Mexico?
USPS hands packages to Correos de México after border crossing. Correos is notoriously slow and has limited tracking visibility. Private carriers (DHL, FedEx) handle end-to-end delivery.
How much is duty to Mexico?
0-20% depending on the item classification (HS code). Plus 16% IVA on the total (value + duty). Under $50 USD is duty-free but still IVA-assessable.
Do I need a commercial invoice?
Yes for commercial shipments. Personal gifts under $50 USD can use simpler CN22. Mexican customs may request additional documentation for flagged items.
What's the fastest way to ship to Mexico?
FedEx International Priority or DHL Express Worldwide — 1-3 business days to most Mexican cities.
Can I ship electronics to Mexico?
Yes, but some require COFEPRIS or NOM certification for import. Personal-use electronics (phones, laptops) are usually fine for individual buyers.

Other International Destinations

NL
Netherlands
BR
Brazil
IN
India
PH
Philippines
IE
Ireland
SG
Singapore

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