Cargo Shipping to Costa Rica? Important Information About Moving Overseas to Costa Rica
Located in Central America near Panama and Nicaragua, Costa Rica, or “Rich Coast” has more than 800 miles of coastline which includes the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The country is recognized for its biodiversity which includes both animal and plant life.
Divided into seven provinces, Costa Rica has membership in a variety of organizations including the Organization of American States and the UN. While Spanish is the country’s primary language, the country is also home to several native languages and is visited and inhabited by people from all over the world.
If you are planning on moving or need cargo shipping to Costa Rica, there is some paperwork you should plan to get in order in advance. For example, if you are moving to the country, make sure that you have a passport for all the members of your family.
To prepare cargo shipping, you should have a complete inventory listed in Spanish or English. Your inventory should include the value of your items declared for customs, with complete information about the number of cartons in your shipping container. You should also plan to include additional information for equipment and electrical appliances including:
- brand name
- serial numbers
- models, and
- pricing
Additional paperwork you will need for cargo shipping includes proof of insurance and a letter authorizing the destination agent to clear your shipment. All paperwork should be original documents.
All cargo shipping is subject to inspection by Costa Rican authorities. When shipping, all of your used household goods and personal items are subject to import taxes and duties. It is important to note, however, that certain people receive exemptions to this rule including:
- Diplomats
- Members of government or international organizations
- Costa Rican citizens who have lived outside of the country for at least two years – (in this case you will be expected to pay taxes but are not required to pay duty fees)
Cargo Shipping Rules About New Items to Costa Rica
If you are shipping new items, it is important to note that new items require an original receipt and are subject to high-duty fees. If you are shipping large appliances to Costa Rica, you cannot ship more than one of each type of appliance. In addition, when shipping computers, you will be expected to follow certain Costa Rican import regulations.
Prohibited Items when Cargo Shipping to Costa Rica
If you are moving to Costa Rica, and are planning on cargo shipping, it is helpful to know about items that are prohibited or restricted. The following items are prohibited or restricted when cargo shipping there:
- Alcoholic beverages (only small quantities for personal use are allowed)
- Narcotics and drugs
- Explosives
- Used tires
- Pornographic or subversive material
Weapons and ammunition require an original invoice and registration at origin. You must also have a special permit from the Costa Rican Firearm and Explosive Department.
Import taxes will be applicable and you will also need a special permit if you are planning on shipping any of the following to Costa Rica:
- Animal or agricultural products including plants
- Medicines
- Large quantities of alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Food items
Car Shipping to Costa Rica
Are you interested in shipping a car to Costa Rica? If you ship a car, you will be expected to pay high import taxes and duties unless you are exempt from these requirements as detailed above. The amount of fees for car shipping varies depending on your vehicle including the value, model, year, and additional info.
To ship a vehicle to Costa Rica, certain original documents are required. You will need a registration card or property title, and a purchase invoice for each vehicle.
In addition, as of June 7, 2000, all vehicles entering Costa Rica must complete a Smog Test from the Environmental Protection Agency, signed off by the Consulate from the country of origin. Your cargo shipping company can provide you with additional information on car shipping, sometimes referred to as “roll on roll off” or Ro Ro shipping.
Bringing Pets
If you are moving to Costa Rica and you are interested in bringing your cat or dog with you, learn more about the required documentation. Make sure that your cat or dog has:
- Anti-rabies vaccination
- Health Certificate
- The invoice indicates the value of your animal
There is a lot to think about as you prepare for international cargo shipping to Costa Rica. A dependable cargo shipping company can assist with all the country-specific import rules and regulations. Choosing the right international cargo shipping company can help make your experience with international shipping and overseas moving smooth sailing.
