Many importers focus on freight rates and transit times, but in reality, Mexico customs clearance is where most unexpected delays and extra costs occur. As a professional freight forwarder from China to Mexico, we assist importers with compliance, documentation, duties, and last-mile delivery every day. Below is a practical, easy-to-understand guide that covers everything you need to know.
How Mexico customs clearance works
Mexico’s customs process centers on the “Pedimento,” the official customs declaration required for all imports. The process generally follows these steps:
1. Arrival & manifest review
When your cargo arrives, by sea, truck, rail, or air, the carrier submits an electronic manifest to Mexican Customs (Aduanas). It is the first step that allows customs authorities to validate your shipment details before inspection.
2. Customs broker submission
A licensed Mexican customs broker then files the Pedimento, including all mandatory documents, HS codes, product descriptions, and valuation details. Accurate documentation at this stage is critical for smooth Mexico customs clearance.
3. Automated selection (Red/green light)
Mexico uses an automated examination system to determine whether a shipment needs inspection:
- Green light: Cargo is cleared without inspection.
- Red light:Customs performs a physical examination of the goods.
The selection is partly random, but discrepancies in documentation often increase the likelihood of a red-light inspection.
4. Duties, taxes & fees payment
Before customs clears your shipment, you must pay all applicable charges, including:
- Import duties
- IVA (VAT)
- Customs processing fees (DTA)
- Any special taxes, such as IEPS
Your customs broker or China shipping forwarder typically assists in calculating and processing these payments.
5. Cargo release
Once duties and taxes are settled and no further inspections are required, customs authorizes the release of your cargo. From there, it can move on to final delivery, either directly to your warehouse or through a local distribution center.
How long does customs clearance in Mexico take?
Typical clearance timelines:
| Type of Shipment | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Air freight to Mexico | 1–3 days |
| Sea freight | 2–3 days |
| Courier/Express shipments | Same day to 48 hours |
However, several situations may extend the timeline:
- Missing or incorrect HS codes
- Insufficient invoices
- Missing NOM certificates
- Discrepancies between the invoice and the packing list
- Random physical inspections
- Customs system backlogs (common during peak season)
If you notice any delays, contact your freight forwarder or carrier immediately. As a partner of the ASLG team, we monitor your cargo in real time to ensure the fastest possible transit and customs clearance.
Air freight vs sea freight for shipping to Mexico
Sea freight (FCL & LCL)
Shipping to Mexico by sea is the most common method—especially for general cargo, oversized shipments, and heavy products.
- FCL is ideal for large volumes.
- Use LCL for smaller loads.
- Special containers (open-top, flat rack) work for oversized cargo.
- Ship dangerous goods as long as you prepare the required declarations and packaging.
Transit time to Mexico’s major ports (Manzanillo, Lazaro Cardenas) typically ranges from 25 to 35 days.
Air Freight to Mexico
For time-sensitive shipments or high-value goods, air freight to Mexico is a faster and more reliable option. Transit usually takes 3–7 days.
Standard cargo, batteries, and certain sensitive goods can all be handled with proper documentation and clearance.
What affects shipping costs from China to Mexico
Several factors impact your shipping cost from China to Mexico:
- Mode of transport (air freight vs. sea freight)
- Weight and volume of your cargo
- Product type and any special handling requirements
- Customs duties and taxes based on HS codes
- Port of entry, such as Manzanillo, Lázaro Cárdenas, Veracruz, Altamira, or Mexico City Airport
- Additional services, including NOM testing, warehousing, and cargo insurance
A reliable freight forwarder can compare these options for you, optimize your route, and help you avoid unnecessary costs.
How to avoid customs problems (Practical tips)
After years of handling cargo shipping to Mexico, we’ve identified several proven ways to prevent delays, fines, and unexpected costs during Mexico customs clearance:
1. Use accurate HS codes
Customs closely reviews HS codes, so proper classification helps you avoid audits and revaluations.
2. Provide clear, detailed product descriptions
Generic descriptions like “parts” or “accessories” almost always raise red flags and slow down clearance.
3. Confirm whether your products require NOM certification
It is critical for electronics, household appliances, lighting products, and telecom equipment.
4. Don’t undervalue your goods
Mexico enforces strict valuation rules. If the declared value looks suspicious, customs may request additional documentation.
5. Check all documents before the cargo leaves China
Fixing errors after arrival often results in demurrage, storage charges, or extended clearance times.
6. Work with a single, reliable shipping partner
A unified logistics process reduces miscommunication between carriers, brokers, and suppliers, helping your shipment move smoothly from origin to destination.
Airsupply: Your best freight forwarder from China to Mexico
A right logistics partner can be the difference between smooth delivery and costly delays when you are shipping from China to Mexico. Airsupply (ASLG) provides end-to-end support designed for importers who need reliable, compliant, and efficient shipping solutions.
What we deliver:
- Our teams in Manzanillo, Lázaro Cárdenas, Veracruz, Altamira, and Mexico City Airport accelerate customs clearance and final delivery.
- We evaluate carriers, transit times, and transport modes to help you reduce your overall shipping cost from China to Mexico.
- Full support for DDP, DDU, FCL, LCL, Amazon FBA, and air freight
- From general goods to oversized machinery, special containers, and hazardous materials, we manage everything with proper compliance and documentation.
