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
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