Shipping Guide from China to Latin America and the Caribbean
This guide outlines key considerations for shipping from China to Latin America and the Caribbean, covering transportation methods, customs requirements, regional logistics 特点 (characteristics), and practical tips.
- Advantages: Cost-effective for large volumes (e.g., machinery, furniture, construction materials).
- Routes:
- Depart from major Chinese ports (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou) to Caribbean hubs (e.g., Miami, Panama, Kingston), then transfer to final destinations.
- Common ports: Bridgetown (Barbados), San Juan (Puerto Rico), Oranjestad (Aruba).
- Transit Time: 30–45 days (including transfers). Delays may occur during peak seasons (December–April).
- Advantages: Fast delivery for high-value or time-sensitive goods (e.g., electronics, pharmaceuticals, fresh produce).
- Routes: Direct or connecting flights from Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou via the U.S. or Europe to major Latin American airports (e.g., Mexico City, São Paulo, San Juan).
- Transit Time: 5–10 days; charter flights available for urgent shipments (3–5 days).
- Standard: Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (B/L)/air waybill, certificate of origin (CO).
- Regional Variations:
- Caribbean Islands (e.g., Anguilla, Antigua): Additional environmental declarations may be required (e.g., bans on single-use plastics).
- Latin American Countries (e.g., Brazil, Argentina): Need tax IDs (CUIT/CIF) and labels in Spanish/Portuguese.
- Caribbean: Import duties (5–15%) + VAT (10–17.5%, e.g., 17.5% in Barbados).
- Latin America: Import duties (5–30%) + VAT (10–21%, e.g., 21% in Brazil).
- Exemptions: Possible for medical equipment or educational supplies (verify with local customs in advance).
- Environmental Standards: Many Caribbean nations prohibit non-degradable materials (e.g., plastic bags). Use recyclable packaging.
- Special Goods:
- Food/Pharmaceuticals: Must meet local standards (e.g., Mexico’s NOM certification, Brazil’s ANVISA approval).
- Electronics: Require safety certifications (e.g., INMETRO in Brazil).
- Island Logistics: Many islands (e.g., Anguilla, Dominica) rely on transshipment via nearby hubs (e.g., St. Maarten, Barbados). Inland transport uses roads (ferries for multi-island deliveries).
- Peak Season Impacts: Port congestion increases during winter tourism seasons (December–April). Book 4–6 weeks ahead.
- Multi-Modal Transport: Landlocked countries (e.g., Bolivia, Paraguay) require sea-to-road/rail transfers. Use logistics providers with South American ground networks (e.g., via San Antonio Port, Chile, to Bolivia).
- Stringent Customs: Brazil and Argentina require detailed shipment descriptions. Electronic goods need pre-approval (e.g., INMETRO).
- LCL vs. FCL: Less-than-container load (LCL) is suitable for shipments under 20m³, costing 30–50% less than full-container load (FCL).
- Consolidated Shipments: Combine multiple orders to a single destination to reduce individual customs fees.
- Insurance: Cover shipments for risks like hurricanes or piracy (common in Caribbean routes).
- Holiday Scheduling: Avoid peak customs processing times around local holidays (e.g., Brazil’s Carnival, Mexico’s Independence Day).
- Caribbean Customs Portals:
- Latin American Regulatory Bodies:
