How to Ship to Panama from the US
Panama is a logistics hub for the Americas and a relatively straightforward shipping destination from the US. Panama City has direct flights from Miami and other US hubs, and all major express carriers operate there. The Colón Free Trade Zone makes Panama an unusual market — some imports enter duty-free if routed through Colón.
Panama charges ITBMS (7% VAT equivalent) on most imports, plus customs duties that vary by product category. The formal de minimis threshold for personal imports is approximately $100 USD — packages below that often clear without duty, though ITBMS may still apply. Commercial shipments are dutiable from dollar one.
Typical 1 lb cost
$35–$55 USD
Typical transit
3–12 business days
Carrier Options to Panama
DHL Express Worldwide
Best for Panama. 2-3 business days. Excellent customs brokerage in Panama City.
FedEx International Priority
2-3 business days. Competitive with DHL. Good for business shipments.
UPS Worldwide Express
2-4 business days. Good coverage in Panama City metro area.
USPS Priority Mail International
7–14 business days. Delivered by Correos y Telegrafos. Budget option.
Customs Forms Required
CN22 for items under $400. CN23 + commercial invoice for higher-value packages.
Commonly Prohibited Items
- ✕Firearms without prior ANA (National Customs Authority) authorization
- ✕Illegal drugs and narcotics
- ✕Counterfeit goods
- ✕CITES-protected wildlife products
- ✕Live animals without MIDA permit
Panama-Specific Shipping Tips
- 💡 ITBMS (7%) applies to imported goods; personal-use packages under ~$100 may clear with reduced scrutiny
- 💡 The Colón Free Zone is a re-export hub — confirm your recipient's delivery address is outside the zone for standard retail imports
- 💡 Panama City addresses are generally good — include floor/apartment numbers and reference points
- 💡 Express carriers are highly recommended over USPS for anything time-sensitive or valuable
- 💡 Electronics and branded goods are popular imports — always include original receipts to establish legitimate purchase
Frequently asked questions
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