INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT SHIPPING TO PANAMA

If you are sending merchandise to Panama by sea or air for the first time, guidance and support will surely be needed, as there are guidelines, prohibitions and restrictions to consider.

WHAT PAPERWORK IS NEEDED FOR INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENTS TO PANAMA?

Documentation requirements vary depending on the category of goods being shipped, and can get quite extensive. They usually include: Commercial invoice, Bill of lading / Air waybill, Packing list, Insurance certificate, Certificate of Origin (if required). To avoid delays or hassles when shipping to Panama, your packing list must be as detailed as possible. Vague wording like “miscellaneous” attracts negative attention and further inspections.

WHAT ARE THE REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS WHEN SHIPPING TO PANAMA?

Regulations can be strict on certain categories of goods being imported to Panama. Prior authorization or special permits may be needed for certain items such as agricultural products, processed foods, pharmaceutical, cosmetics or antiques. Prohibited commodities include certain used vehicles, used clothing and accessories, used tires, certain used machinery and all types of toxic wastes or dangerous residues.

Duties and tariffs are usually based on the total value of the shipment in question, and depending on how well-documented the cargo is, those values could be determined by the judgment of Customs Officials on the spot.

Shipping cargo to Panama is easier with LAC as we have overcome these obstacles many times and have developed a thorough understanding of the customs procedures.