Mexico is one of the fastest-growing automotive markets in the Americas, with strong demand for both OEM and aftermarket auto parts. From customs clearance to tax compliance and last-mile delivery, shipping car parts requires far more expertise than ordinary freight.
This article explains how shipping from China to Mexico works for auto parts, what regulations apply, and how sellers can avoid common mistakes.
Overview of shipping auto parts from China to Mexico
China is a global manufacturing hub for automotive components, supplying products such as brake pads, shock absorbers, engine parts, transmission parts, and aftermarket accessories. Many Mexican sellers source from China due to competitive pricing and stable supply.
Depending on cargo size, urgency, and value, car parts can be shipped by:
- Sea freight (FCL or LCL)
- Air freight
- Rail-sea or sea-truck multimodal transport
- Special container solutions for oversized or heavy parts
Each option has its own customs, cost, and time considerations.
Common shipping options and logistics solutions
Choosing the right logistics solution depends on your business model:
Sea freight (LCL/FCL)
Best for bulk orders and heavy items such as engine blocks or transmissions. It offers the lowest cost but a longer transit time.
Air freight
Ideal for high-value or urgent parts, such as sensors or electronic components.
DDP shipping from China to Mexico
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping is especially popular among cross-border eCommerce sellers. It covers freight, customs clearance, duties, and taxes, simplifying cost control.
Amazon and Mercado Libre warehouse delivery
A professional freight forwarder can provide door-to-warehouse delivery services, including appointment scheduling, palletization, labeling, and compliance with Amazon FBA fulfillment requirements.
By selecting the suitable shipping method and logistics partner, auto parts sellers can achieve faster delivery and more predictable costs when shipping to Mexico.
Key challenges and customer pain points
Cross-border auto parts sellers often face several common problems:
Customs clearance risks
Mexican customs authorities apply strict controls to automotive products. As a result, incorrect HS codes, missing certificates, or undervalued invoices can easily trigger inspections, delays, or financial penalties.
High import taxes and VAT
Auto parts are subject to import duties and 16% VAT. Without proper tax planning, landed costs can be much higher than expected.
Delays and port congestion
Ports such as Manzanillo and Lázaro Cárdenas frequently experience congestion, especially when documents are incomplete.
Lost or detained cargo
Auto parts with mixed SKUs or unclear descriptions are more likely to be held by customs for verification.
Platform delivery requirements
Amazon FBA and Mercado Libre fulfillment centers have strict appointment, labeling, and packaging rules that many forwarders do not understand.
And it is where ASLG stands out! We have extensive experience in handling auto parts shipments from China to Mexico. Our specialized logistics team understands automotive customs regulations and platform requirements, ensuring your cargo clears customs smoothly and reaches its destination quickly and without disruption.
Customs, taxes, and legal requirements in Mexico
When shipping car parts from China to Mexico, regulatory compliance is essential. Mexican import requirements include specific tariff classifications, tax obligations, documentation, and, in some cases, safety standards such as NOM regulations.
Accurate HS codes and examples
Every imported auto part must be classified under the correct Harmonized System (HS) code. It determines applicable duties and taxes. Incorrect classification can lead to reclassification, customs delays, or financial penalties.
Common HS code examples for automotive components include:
- HS 8708.30 – Brake system parts (e.g., brake pads)
- HS 8708.40 – Suspension shock absorbers
- HS 8409.91/8409.99 – Engine parts
- HS 8421.xx/8424.xx – Filters and wear parts
Mexico maintains country-specific HS extensions beyond the first six digits, so working with an experienced customs broker to confirm classification is essential.
Import license and RFC registration
To clear customs, the Mexican importer must have a valid RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) —the official Mexican tax identification number. This number must appear on all key documents, including the commercial invoice and customs entry.
In addition, imports over certain value thresholds may require registration in Mexico’s Padrón de Importadores before clearance.
Required customs documents
Typically required documents include:
- Commercial invoice (accurate description and value)
- Packing list
- Bill of lading (sea freight) or air waybill (air freight)
- Certificate of origin (if applicable)
- Additional safety, test reports, or permits as required.
Missing or inaccurate documentation is one of the top causes of customs delays and holds.
Import duties, taxes, and fees
Mexico levies import duties and taxes on most products, including automotive parts. These costs are calculated on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
Key tax components include:
- Import duty: Varies by HS code—typically between ~10–25% for auto parts not covered by a trade agreement.
- Value-added tax (VAT): Standard rate of 16% on the duty-paid value.
- Customs processing fees: Minor statutory fees (e.g., handling or processing charges).
Important update: Mexico’s legislature approved major tariff reforms that will raise or adjust duties on many imported goods, including auto parts. With certain classifications facing tariffs up to 35–50% starting in 2026.
NOM (Normas Oficiales Mexicanas) Compliance
Certain automotive products must comply with Mexico’s NOM standards (Normas Oficiales Mexicanas), which are mandatory regulations covering safety, performance, energy efficiency, and labeling.
For example:
Brake system components
Such as brake pads, brake linings, and related friction materials that directly affect vehicle safety.
Lighting and signaling equipment
Including headlights, tail lights, turn signals, and LED automotive lamps, which must meet visibility and performance standards.
Seat belts and restraint systems
Products related to passenger safety often require strict conformity assessments.
Tires and rubber automotive components
Certain tires and rubber parts may be subject to safety and labeling requirements.
Emission-related components
Parts that impact exhaust or emission control systems, such as catalytic converters or sensors, may fall under environmental or safety NOM standards.
Because NOM requirements vary by product type and HS code, it is essential to verify compliance in advance.
Why choose ASLG for car part shipping from China to Mexico
Airsupply specializes in shipping from China to Mexico and understands the complexities of automotive logistics throughout every stage. We provide end-to-end solutions designed to reduce risk, control costs, and ensure smooth delivery.
Key advantages of working with ASLG include:
- Deep experience handling brake parts, engine components, transmission parts, filters, and aftermarket accessories.
- Advance review of documentation, product descriptions, and regulatory requirements to avoid delays.
- Reliable local partners who understand Mexican import regulations and automotive compliance standards.
- Clear, predictable landed costs tailored to cross-border eCommerce and B2B sellers.
- Direct delivery to Amazon FBA warehouses, including appointment booking, labeling, and palletization.
Español 
English 