All international trade and customs terms, clearly explained with practical examples.
Mexico's random and risk-based system that determines whether goods will undergo customs inspection (red light) or be released without inspection (green light).
An import duty calculated as a percentage of the customs value of goods. It is the most common type of tariff in international trade.
Security certification granted by Mexico's SAT to companies meeting international supply chain security standards.
Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to automate customs processes such as tariff classification, data extraction, and risk detection.
A legal situation in which goods deposited at customs are not withdrawn within the periods established by law, causing them to become property of the federal treasury.
An air transport document that serves as a contract of carriage between the shipper and the airline, covering the shipment of goods by air.
A filing with Mexico's Ministry of Economy that importers must submit before importing certain goods, for statistical monitoring and market surveillance purposes, without restricting access.
An official response issued by customs authorities before an import, establishing with legal certainty the treatment merchandise will receive regarding classification, origin, or valuation.
An individual designated by a company to perform customs operations on its behalf without requiring a customs broker license (patente).
An international certification granted to companies that demonstrate high standards of security and compliance in their foreign trade supply chain.
An additional duty imposed on imports sold below their normal value in the home market to counteract the unfair trade practice of dumping.
Goods or services supplied by the buyer to the producer free of charge or at reduced cost for use in producing imported goods, which must be added to customs value.
A digital identification mechanism using SAT-issued certificates to guarantee authenticity, integrity, and non-repudiation of electronic documents in foreign trade operations.
The cost of transporting goods by air, generally calculated by weight or dimensional volume, used for urgent, high-value, or perishable cargo.
Expenses that must be added to the price paid to determine transaction value: selling commissions, packaging, assists from importer, royalties, and transport/insurance costs to entry point.
Goods or services the importer supplies to the producer free or at reduced cost. Divided into incorporated materials, tools/molds, consumed materials, and engineering/design performed outside the territory.
The use of AI and machine learning to determine the correct tariff code from a product's description, composition, and use. Reduces human error and accelerates clearance.
Artificial intelligence models trained on millions of tariff classifications to determine the correct code. Uses natural language processing, computer vision, and Harmonized System rules.
Air transport document evidencing the contract between shipper and airline. Unlike the BL, it is NOT a title of ownership nor negotiable. Governed by the Montreal Convention and IATA rules.
Vehicle manufacturing companies with a special customs regime for temporary import of components and export of finished vehicles.
Laboratory authorized by EMA to perform tests demonstrating product compliance with Mexican Official Standards.
FTA mechanism allowing materials from other agreement countries to be considered originating for meeting rules of origin.
Goods or services provided free or at reduced cost by the importer to the foreign producer that must be included in customs value.
Prior notification requirement to the Ministry of Economy for exporting certain products, not constituting a permit.
Mandatory automated inventory control system for IMMEX companies tracking entries, exits, and destination of temporary goods.
Insurance policy covering loss or damage to goods during transport from any cause, except express exclusions.
Monitoring mechanism where the importer notifies the Ministry of Economy about imports of certain products.
Use of artificial intelligence to automatically determine the correct tariff fraction of goods.
What is Value Adjustment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Self-Certification, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Accumulation of Origin, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Automatic Notice, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff-Rate Quota, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Storage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Port of Entry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Clearance Customs Office, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Broker, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Agent, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Laboratory Analysis, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Return Notice, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Automation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Predictive Analytics in Customs, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs API, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Ad Valorem Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Specific Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Mixed Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Compound Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Partial Scope Agreement, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ALADI, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is TFA - Trade Facilitation Agreement, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is WTO Valuation Agreement, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Inland Customs Office, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Border Customs Office, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Maritime Customs Office, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Airport Customs Office, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ANAM, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Value Acknowledgment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bilateral Accumulation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Full Accumulation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is General Deposit Warehouse, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Preferential Trade Agreement, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Threat of Injury, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is General Average, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Particular Average, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Insurance Adjuster, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ACE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is AMS, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Post-Entry Audit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Self-Correction, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Abandonment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) regulatory framework that establishes security and facilitation standards for international trade, promoting cooperation between customs authorities and the private sector to secure the global logistics chain.
What is Annex 24, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Annex 30, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Annex 31, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Articles of Incorporation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ALTEX, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is MFN Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Preferential Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bound Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Applied Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ALTEX, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Agency, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Mandatory notification to SE before importing certain products subject to surveillance.
Agreement between countries to mutually recognize their authorized economic operator programs.
What is MFN Tariff, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Measurement of the cargo capacity of containers or vehicles for customs verification.
Provision of the Ministry of Economy establishing products subject to regulation.
Mechanism that allows considering materials from partner countries as originating under an FTA.
What is Declaration Annex, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Programming interface that allows integrating business systems with customs platforms.
Technological infrastructure at customs where the automated selection mechanism (fiscal traffic light) is activated. The system randomly determines whether goods undergo inspection (red) or are released (green).
Grouping of shipments from different shippers into a single air shipment under a master air waybill (MAWB). The consolidator issues individual house air waybills (HAWB) optimizing costs.
Bonded warehouse modality for vehicles, allowing storage in authorized facilities without paying duties until extraction for distribution and exhibition.
Clearance modality allowing goods inspection at importer's facilities. Available to OEA/NEEC certified companies meeting security requirements.
Coefficient for adjusting customs value for differences in exchange rate, commercial level, quantity, transaction timing, and delivery conditions.
Tariff calculated as percentage of customs value. The most common form in Mexico, with rates from 0% to over 50% by tariff heading.
Formal notification from the master to the charterer or their agent indicating the vessel has arrived at port and is ready to load or unload. Its acceptance starts the laytime clock.
Cargo insurance clause extending coverage from the seller's origin warehouse to the buyer's final warehouse, including all intermediate transits, storages, and transshipments.
Partial loss or damage suffered by goods during transport affecting only a particular interest (a specific shipper). Distinguished from general average which involves a voluntary sacrifice to safeguard the vessel.
Maritime situation where a deliberate sacrifice or extraordinary expenditure is made to preserve the vessel and its cargo from common peril. Costs are distributed proportionally among all interests in the voyage.
Specialized professional who investigates and evaluates cargo insurance claims to determine the cause, extent of damage, and indemnification amount. Acts as a technical intermediary between insurer and insured.
Act by which the insured cedes all rights over the damaged goods to the insurer to receive indemnification for constructive total loss. Requires formal notification to the insurer.
Automated customs management system developed by UNCTAD used by over 90 countries. Integrates customs declarations, risk control, accounting, and statistics in a unified web platform.
Use of statistical models, machine learning, and historical data to predict trade trends, demand, compliance risks, and supply chain disruptions before they occur.
Centralized entry point managing programming interfaces between foreign trade systems, customs, shipping lines, and banks. Handles authentication, rate limiting, versioning, and data transformation.
Software design pattern where foreign trade functionalities are divided into independent, separately deployable services such as classification, valuation, documentation, and compliance.
Mobile application allowing customs brokers and importers to manage foreign trade operations from mobile devices, including customs declaration queries, shipment tracking, and real-time notifications.
Agreement between customs administrations of different countries to mutually recognize their authorized economic operator programs, granting reciprocal benefits to companies certified in both countries.
Cooperation model between customs authorities and the private sector to improve supply chain security while facilitating legitimate trade. Conceptual basis for programs like C-TPAT and AEO.
Documentary and accounting review conducted by customs authorities after goods clearance to verify compliance with fiscal and regulatory obligations. Can be performed up to five years later.
Formal verification process where customs authorities examine records, documents, and operations of an importer or exporter to ensure correct compliance with customs and tax legislation.
Periodic internal review of a company's foreign trade operations to detect and correct non-compliance before customs authorities identify them. Key component of a compliance program.
Measures and procedures to prevent the use of international trade as a money laundering mechanism, including over-invoicing, under-invoicing, multiple invoicing, and phantom shipments.
Multilateral export control regime for conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies. Its 42 participating states maintain common control lists and share information on transfers.
Intermediary specialized in international logistics organizing the transport of goods on behalf of importers and exporters. Manages documentation, contracts carriers, consolidates cargo, and coordinates the entire logistics chain.
Maritime transport document serving as a contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and document of title.
Customs regime allowing foreign or domestic goods to be stored in authorized warehouses with suspension of duty payments.
An ocean transport document issued by the carrier that serves as a contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and document of title to the cargo.
Distributed and immutable ledger technology applied to the international supply chain to guarantee traceability, authenticity, and transparency of goods, customs documents, and certificates of origin from manufacturer to end consumer.
An accounting record of all economic transactions between a country's residents and the rest of the world during a given period.
Goods that cannot be transported in standard containers due to size, weight, or nature, and are loaded individually onto vessels, such as heavy machinery, turbines, or metal structures.
Goods transported without individual packaging, poured directly into vessel holds or specialized vehicles, divided into dry bulk (minerals, grains) and liquid bulk (oil, chemicals).
Distributed ledger technology applied to international supply chains. Enables immutable traceability, origin verification, and payment automation through smart contracts.
Analysis of large volumes of trade data to detect risk patterns, optimize inspections, predict trade trends, and combat fraud. Used by authorities and businesses alike.
Maritime transport document serving as transport contract, receipt of goods, and title of ownership. Issued by the carrier. Can be negotiable (to order) or non-negotiable (straight).
Customs office located at country border crossings. Mexico has 19 border customs offices with the US (Nuevo Laredo, Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, etc.) and 2 with Guatemala/Belize.
Location authorized by customs to store foreign trade goods under fiscal control and surveillance. Can be within the customs compound or outside it (concessioned bonded warehouse).
Maximum tariff rate a country committed not to exceed at the WTO, established in its schedule of concessions.
Geographic zone of 20 km parallel to international borders with special tariff treatment for certain products.
Broader geographic zone than the border strip, extending to complete cities and municipalities with tariff benefits.
Legal act of transferring ownership of goods covered by a B/L through the consignee's signature on the back of the document.
Customs-authorized facility for storing foreign trade goods without duty payment until withdrawal.
Resolution issued by customs establishing the correct tariff code for a specific product, with binding legal effect.
Initial tariff from which progressive elimination agreed in a free trade agreement is calculated.
Surcharge applied to ocean freight to compensate for fluctuations in vessel fuel (bunker) prices.
Commercial operation where an intermediary simultaneously buys and sells the same goods without taking physical possession.
Bilateral treaty protecting investments of nationals of one country in the territory of the other.
Distributed ledger technology applied to international trade to ensure transparency and traceability.
Short-term financing covering the period between supplier payment and sale of imported goods.
What is Non-Tariff Barrier, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Blockchain in Customs, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tax Base, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Banxico, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bancomext, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is BAF - Bunker Adjustment Factor, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Booking, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bill of Lading Surrender, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Distributed ledger technology applied to traceability and verification of customs operations.
Resolution issued by customs authorities mandatorily establishing the applicable tariff heading for a product, with binding legal effects and legal certainty.
Regime allowing storage of goods in authorized deposit warehouses without paying duties until total or partial extraction with proportional payment.
Legal framework allowing storage of national or foreign goods without tax payment, with total or partial extraction under proportional duty payment.
Payment to importer's purchasing agent that is NOT an addition to transaction value, unlike selling commissions per the WTO Valuation Agreement.
Merchandise transported in individual units without containerization, with piece-by-piece handling. Common for heavy machinery, structural steel, and piping.
Triple maritime document: contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and document of title. Issued by the shipping line, may be negotiable or non-negotiable.
Binding Tariff Information, an EU instrument providing legal certainty on the tariff classification of goods before importation. Issued by the customs authority of any EU member state.
Pair of bills of lading used in commercial intermediation operations where the second BL replaces the first with different shipper and consignee data. Common in trading companies.
Bill of lading without annotations or clauses indicating defects in the goods or their packaging at the time of shipment. Frequently required by banks for documentary credit operations.
Bill of lading containing annotations about damage, deficiencies, or irregular conditions of the goods or packaging. Also called 'dirty' or 'foul BL', it can cause problems in letter of credit operations.
Bill of lading presented to the bank after the period established in the letter of credit, generally 21 days after the date of shipment. Banks may reject it as a documentary discrepancy.
Large-capacity container vessel operating on main long-haul routes between hub ports. Can carry between 10,000 and 24,000 TEUs and its size requires ports with deep draft.
Smaller capacity vessel distributing containers between secondary ports and hub ports where it connects with mother vessels. Typical capacity of 300 to 3,000 TEUs.
Graphic representation of container distribution in each bay (cross-section) of a container vessel. Shows position, weight, destination, type, and dangerous goods of each container.
Application of distributed ledger technology to create immutable records of transactions, documents, and movements in the supply chain. Improves traceability, reduces fraud, and streamlines document verification.
Products and technologies with both civilian and military applications subject to special export controls. Include telecommunications equipment, nuclear materials, chemicals, and advanced software.
Natural person who ultimately owns or controls a legal entity involved in foreign trade operations. Their identification is key to preventing money laundering and sanctions evasion.
The official document filed with Mexican customs that covers the entry or exit of goods from Mexico, prepared and submitted by a licensed customs broker.
The complete set of procedures and formalities required for goods to legally enter or exit a country through customs.
A licensed individual authorized by Mexico's tax authority (SAT) to process customs clearance of goods on behalf of importers and exporters.
The physical and documentary examination of goods performed by Mexican customs authorities to verify they match the information declared in the pedimento.
An authorization granted by Mexico's SAT that enables an individual to act as a customs broker and process customs clearance on behalf of third parties.
A post-clearance review conducted by Mexican customs authorities on filed pedimentos and supporting documents to verify the accuracy of declared information.
An additional duty levied on imported goods that are subject to dumping or foreign government subsidies, designed to protect domestic industry from unfair trade practices.
Electronic document that certifies the declared value of goods in the customs declaration, transmitted through Mexico's VUCEM system.
Document issued by the seller/exporter describing the goods sold, their price, terms of sale, and details of the parties involved.
A document covering the transport of goods by land within Mexico, mandatory as a CFDI tax document supplement since 2022.
Document certifying that goods originate in a specific country, required to claim preferential tariff rates under trade agreements.
Document listing all goods carried by a transport vehicle upon arrival at a country's territory.
The legal-customs treatment applied to goods based on their intended purpose in the country, determining importer/exporter obligations.
Regime where goods are transferred under customs control from one customs office to another within the country or to a foreign destination.
The monetary amount on which import duties are calculated, determined according to the WTO Valuation Agreement with transaction value as the primary method.
A fee charged for import and export customs operations in Mexico, calculated at 8 per thousand of customs value for definitive imports.
Process of determining the customs value of imported goods using the six methods of the WTO Valuation Agreement, used to calculate duties and taxes.
A location authorized by customs authorities for the entry, exit, handling, custody, and clearance of foreign trade goods, directly administered by the customs office.
A resolution issued by customs authorities that determines the applicable tariff classification for a specific product, based on technical analysis of its characteristics.
An Incoterm indicating that the seller assumes the costs of ocean freight and insurance to the agreed destination port, although the risk of loss or damage transfers to the buyer upon shipment.
A logistics process of grouping multiple small shipments from different shippers into a single transport unit to optimize freight costs and space utilization.
A logistics strategy where goods are received at a warehouse or distribution center and immediately reshipped to their final destination without going through a storage period.
The application of artificial intelligence algorithms—machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision—to automate and optimize foreign trade processes such as tariff classification, document review, and customs risk detection.
An application programming interface (API) designed to connect foreign trade systems—ERPs, TMSs, e-commerce platforms—with customs services such as tariff classification, duty calculation, document validation, and customs entry transmission programmatically.
An XML (Extensible Markup Language) file format used for the electronic transmission of customs entries to SAAI. It defines the standardized data structure including importer information, merchandise, tariff codes, values, duties, and associated digital documents.
The fifth WTO customs valuation method that determines customs value by adding the production costs of imported goods: materials, manufacturing, producer's profit and general expenses, plus transport and insurance costs to the point of importation.
Payments made to intermediaries, buying agents, or commercial brokers in an international merchandise transaction that, depending on their nature, may constitute dutiable additions to customs value or be excluded from it under the WTO Valuation Agreement.
A physical and documentary verification procedure conducted by customs authorities to confirm that declared goods match the information in the customs declaration.
The grouping of goods from multiple shippers into a single container or transport unit to optimize shipping costs and space.
A financial sanction imposed by customs authorities for non-compliance with foreign trade regulations and customs law.
A financial guarantee presented to customs authorities to ensure compliance with customs obligations, such as payment of duties or return of temporarily imported goods.
The government agency responsible for enforcing customs legislation and controlling the entry and exit of goods from national territory.
A legal entity authorized to act as a customs broker, resulting from Customs Law reforms allowing brokerage operations under a corporate structure.
A transport document covering the overland movement of goods within national territory, identifying the cargo, origin, destination, and carrier.
The geographic territory assigned to a specific customs office where it exercises jurisdiction over the control and clearance of foreign trade goods.
A tariff type that combines an ad valorem percentage with a specific amount per unit, applying whichever is greater or summing both components.
An agreement between two or more countries to eliminate tariffs among themselves and establish a common external tariff toward third countries.
A Mexican electronic invoice (CFDI) with a specific complement containing additional information required for definitive export operations.
A document where the importer declares the transaction value of goods and its components, serving as the basis for calculating import duties.
An electronic authorization granted by an importer or exporter to a customs broker to perform foreign trade operations on their behalf.
An insurance contract covering risks of loss or damage to goods during international transport by sea, air, or land.
A document sent by the importer to the customs broker with detailed instructions on how to handle the clearance of a specific trade operation.
A regulatory requirement that imported goods bear a visible and indelible mark indicating the country where they were manufactured or produced.
The exchange of goods and services between regions or communities adjacent to an international border, with distinct economic and regulatory dynamics.
An economic principle stating that a country should specialize in producing and exporting goods where it has a lower opportunity cost than other countries.
The purchase and sale of goods and services through digital platforms between buyers and sellers in different countries, subject to customs regulations.
An international trade modality where payment for goods is made wholly or partially with other goods or services instead of currency.
The process of digitally transforming customs procedures and processes, migrating from manual paper-based systems to automated electronic platforms.
The use of data analysis and business intelligence tools to process foreign trade information and derive insights on trends, risks, and opportunities.
The ability of information systems from different customs authorities and government agencies to exchange foreign trade data automatically and in standardized formats.
The process of presenting the validated customs declaration and goods at the customs module to activate the automated selection mechanism and determine whether a physical inspection is required.
A customs regime allowing foreign or domestic goods to be stored in authorized general deposit warehouses with suspended duty payment until withdrawal.
A special bank account where the importer deposits a guarantee equal to the duties that could arise from differences between declared value and the estimated price of merchandise.
A legal entity authorized to conduct customs clearance of goods on behalf of importers and exporters, operating under the legal framework established by Mexico's Customs Law reform.
A merchandise classification system adopted by a group of countries or trade bloc to apply uniform tariffs on imports from third countries.
An official document issued in a specific format established by a free trade agreement certifying that goods meet rules of origin requirements to access preferential tariff treatment.
National provisions that supplement the General Rules of Interpretation of the Harmonized System, enabling Mexico-specific application of the TIGIE tariff schedule.
A permit issued by SEMARNAT authorizing international trade in wildlife species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.
Mexican Official Standards establishing labeling and information requirements that imported products must meet for sale to end consumers in the Mexican market.
An electronic authorization the importer grants to a customs broker to act as their legal representative before customs, processed through the SAT's VUCEM portal.
An authorization issued by Mexico's Federal Commission for Protection Against Health Risks to import regulated products such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, processed food, pesticides, and cosmetics.
A document communicating minor corrections to customs declaration data already processed, without requiring a full supplementary declaration.
Cargo safekeeping within a bonded facility during customs clearance, subject to daily fees that increase progressively with storage time.
A charge the shipping line bills the importer for using the container outside the port or terminal beyond the allotted free time, before returning it empty.
Buying and selling goods and services through digital platforms between buyers and sellers in different countries, subject to each jurisdiction's customs and tax regulations.
A multilateral free trade agreement among 11 Pacific Rim countries eliminating tariffs and establishing common rules on trade, investment, intellectual property, and digital commerce.
A procedure established by the WTO Valuation Agreement for determining customs value, applied hierarchically: transaction value, identical goods, similar goods, deductive, computed, and fallback.
The fifth valuation method determining value from production costs at origin plus exporter's profit and general expenses plus transport/insurance. Rarely used as it requires the producer's confidential cost data.
The official exchange rate published by the Bank of Mexico to convert foreign-currency customs value to Mexican pesos. The rate effective on the pedimento payment date applies.
The illegal practice of declaring customs value below the actual price to reduce duties. A serious infraction with fines of 130-150% of omitted duties, seizure, and possible criminal liability.
Optical character recognition applied to trade documents: invoices, entry forms, certificates of origin, bills of lading. Automatically extracts data for validation and capture in customs systems.
The process of converting physical trade documents to digital format for storage, search, and electronic transmission. Includes scanning, OCR, indexing, and archiving per Art. 59-V Customs Law.
Programming interfaces allowing external systems to connect with customs platforms to query tariffs, validate codes, transmit documents, and obtain real-time operation status.
Mexican Digital Tax Receipt (CFDI) with a specific complement for export operations. Contains foreign buyer data, merchandise details, tariff codes, and customs value.
Electronic file (.cer) containing the taxpayer's public key, issued by SAT. Together with the private key (.key), enables signing electronic documents for foreign trade procedures.
Financial guarantee ensuring payment of trade duties. May cover temporary imports (IMMEX), transit, bonded warehouse regime, or serve as security in valuation disputes.
Fee paid for customs operations. The general rate is 8 per thousand of customs value for definitive imports. Reduced rates apply for IMMEX, maquiladoras, and FTA operations.
Additional tariff imposed on imported goods under dumping or subsidy conditions causing injury to domestic industry. Established by the Ministry of Economy after an antidumping investigation.
Mandatory CFDI complement for ground carriers in Mexico since 2022. Documents the movement of goods by road with origin, destination, route, merchandise, and operator information.
Voluntary CBP security program where companies adopt supply chain security measures in exchange for benefits like reduced inspections and priority processing.
Official document drawn up by customs authorities during inspection when irregularities are found in goods or documentation.
Public official responsible for directing and overseeing operations at a specific customs office.
Financial instrument deposited with customs to guarantee payment of duties or compliance with foreign trade obligations.
Procedure through which goods imported under one customs regime are transferred to a different regime.
Individual authorized by a customs broker to act on their behalf in goods clearance operations.
Temporary storage of goods in authorized facilities while customs clearance procedures are completed.
Shared tariff system among Central American countries based on the Harmonized System with regional subdivisions.
Document issued by the importing country's consulate in the exporting country certifying the value and origin of goods.
Technical document detailing laboratory test results for a product, confirming it meets quality specifications.
Entity accredited by EMA and approved by SE to evaluate product conformity with Mexican Official Standards.
Logistics system maintaining controlled temperature for perishable products throughout transportation and storage.
Stage of economic integration including free movement of goods, services, capital, and people between member countries.
Form of international trade where payment is made wholly or partially with goods or services instead of money.
Fourth customs valuation method determining customs value based on production cost plus general expenses and profit.
Modifications to the price paid or payable that must be added or subtracted to determine the transaction value of goods.
Letter of credit where a second bank adds its payment commitment to the issuing bank's, giving double guarantee to the exporter.
Agreement to buy or sell currency at a fixed exchange rate on a future date, used to hedge currency risk in foreign trade.
Contract between a vessel owner and a charterer for full or partial use of the vessel to transport cargo.
Service model where the customs agency offers complete solutions: clearance, logistics, storage, regulatory advice, and permit management.
Mandatory federal contribution paid for each customs operation, calculated on the customs value of goods.
Mandatory authorization from Mexico's health protection commission to market food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices in Mexico.
Financial strategy to protect against exchange rate fluctuations in foreign trade operations.
Document through which the importer or exporter authorizes the customs broker to perform customs clearance on their behalf.
Uniform tariff rate applied by customs union member countries to imports from non-member countries.
Technical opinion issued by customs on tariff classification, origin, or value of specific goods.
Analysis system using risk profiles to determine which foreign trade operations require greater control or inspection.
Satellite tracking technology used to monitor the transit of foreign trade goods within national territory.
Use of cloud computing services to store, process, and manage customs operations data and information.
Transaction circumstances affecting the acceptability of the price as the basis for transaction value.
Price database used by customs authorities as reference to detect undervaluation in imports.
Incoterm where the seller pays freight to the destination port but risk transfers to the buyer upon loading goods.
Incoterm where the seller pays transport to the agreed destination but risk transfers upon delivery to the first carrier.
Incoterm where the seller pays transport and insurance to destination, but risk transfers upon delivery to the first carrier.
Act by which goods are released to the importer or exporter once all customs procedures are completed.
Registry maintained by customs authorities of authorized importers, exporters, and customs brokers.
What is Cargo manifest, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs value declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Costs added to invoice price to determine customs value: freight, insurance, commissions, packaging, etc.
Costs subtracted from customs value: domestic transport, installation, financing interest, etc.
Taxable base on which import taxes are calculated, determined according to WTO Agreement methods.
Fifth customs valuation method based on production costs plus expenses and profits.
Policy protecting against loss or damage to goods during international transport.
Transport of goods or passengers between two points within the same country by sea.
What is Selling Commission, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Royalties and License Fees, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Certificate of Origin, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Countervailing Duty, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Import Quota, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Regime Change, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cabotage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bill of Lading, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Waybill, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cargo Consolidation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Full Container Load, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Less than Container Load, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cross-Docking, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Account, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Classification Criterion, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is NOM Certification, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is C-TPAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CIF - Cost Insurance Freight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CPT - Carriage Paid To, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CIP - Carriage Insurance Paid, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Quota Letter, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Transfer Certificate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CAAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Criteria Compilation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tax Code, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Supply Chain, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Enabling Clause, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Kyoto Convention, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CFDI, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Foreign Trade Complement, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is COVE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Original String, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Chapter, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Substantial Transformation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Classification Consultation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Break Bulk Cargo, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bulk Cargo, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Project Cargo, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Perishable Cargo, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Dangerous Goods, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Consolidated Cargo, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Labor Chapter, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Environment Chapter, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Digital Trade, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Letter of Credit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Irrevocable Letter of Credit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Confirmed Letter of Credit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Documentary Collection, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CAF - Currency Adjustment Factor, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Reefer Container, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Open Top Container, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tank Container, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is COFEPRIS, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CICOPLAFEST, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CITES, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Basel Convention, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Rotterdam Convention, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Stockholm Convention, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CBP, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Trade Compliance, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Declaration Key, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SAT Certifica, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tax Status Certificate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Chassis, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Extraordinary Contribution, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Smuggling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Technical Smuggling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Global Value Chain, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cross-Border E-Commerce, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fulfillment Center, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Assignment Letter, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Project Letter, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IMMEX Certificate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Regional Content, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Net Cost, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Chapter Change (CC), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Heading Change (CTH), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Subheading Change (CTSH), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Marking Rules, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Blanket Certification, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Rules of Origin Committee, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Labor Value Content, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Sunset Clause, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Process of grouping multiple small shipments into a single shipment to optimize transport costs.
Transport document that covers the transfer of goods by land within national territory.
Mandatory CFDI supplement for the transfer of goods and merchandise within national territory.
What is Countervailing Duty, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Legal document where the importer designates the customs broker to perform operations.
What is Border Crossing, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Electronic version of the certificate of origin issued and validated by digital means.
What is NEEC Certification, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is C-TPAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bill of Lading, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Incoterm where the seller pays cost, insurance, and freight to the port of destination.
Limited import quantity with preferential tariff, above which regular tariff applies.
What is Phytosanitary Certificate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Zoosanitary Certificate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Document from the National Health Service authorizing import of agricultural products.
What is Cabotage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Set of laws, regulations, and provisions that regulate a country's foreign trade.
What is Regional Value Content, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Origin criterion based on substantial transformation measured by change in tariff fraction.
What is Electronic COVE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Residues or leftover materials derived from processing or transformation of goods temporarily imported under IMMEX programs. Waste must be returned, destroyed, or undergo a regime change.
Excess detected during customs inspection when the physical quantity of goods exceeds what was declared on the customs entry. May trigger PAMA proceedings and penalties.
Negative difference detected when the physical quantity of goods is less than declared on the customs entry. May indicate theft, loss, or documentation errors with fiscal consequences.
Mandatory tax complement of the CFDI covering goods transport across national territory. Since 2022 mandatory for carriers with origin, destination, and merchandise data.
Transfer of goods from one transport means to another under customs control, without entering import regime. Allows changing vessels or vehicles without paying duties.
Complete physical and documentary verification of goods during clearance: identification, quantity, origin, tariff classification, and customs value determination.
Packing materials provided by importer to seller free of charge for production or transport. They are additions per article 65 of the Customs Law.
Fifth valuation method determining value by summing material costs, manufacturing, profit, and general expenses of the producer. Requires foreign producer information.
Calculates customs value from production costs including materials, processing, producer's usual profit, and general expenses in the exporting country.
Illicit practice of declaring lower value to reduce duties. May result in PAMA, fines of 130-150% of omitted value, and criminal liability.
Declaration of value higher than actual, generally to facilitate capital flight or money laundering. Carries administrative and criminal penalties.
Market value used by authorities to evaluate reasonableness of declared value. Not a mandatory minimum but significant differences trigger verification.
State revenue from public law functions other than taxes: fines, surcharges, execution costs, and indemnities related to foreign trade.
Additional tariff against imported goods at dumping prices or subsidized, causing damage to domestic industry, determined through SE investigation.
Operational area in port or intermodal terminal where containers are stored, stacked, and organized for loading, unloading, or customs clearance.
Specialized trailer for transporting containers by road between port terminals, yards, and importer facilities. Availability affects drayage times.
Direct transfer of goods from inbound to outbound transport with minimal storage. Reduces inventory costs and delivery times in import distribution.
Logistics system maintaining constant controlled temperature from origin to destination for perishable products. Its breach can render goods unusable.
Pronouncement issued by Mexico's Tax Administration Service on the tariff classification of specific goods. It is binding for the authority and serves as guidance for taxpayers.
Formal procedure by which an importer or customs broker requests a binding ruling from customs authorities on the applicable tariff fraction for a product. The result is binding on both parties.
Tariff classification method determining the fraction based on the main constituent material of the product. Applied when material composition is the determining factor according to legal notes or GRI rules.
Tariff classification method determining the fraction based on the primary function the product performs. Takes priority over composition when the heading describes articles by their specific use or function.
Tariff classification method based on the end use or application of the goods. Used when legal notes or heading texts specify use as the determining criterion for classification.
Two-digit division of the Harmonized System grouping goods by nature or industry. There are 97 chapters organized in 21 sections, each with its own legal notes governing classification.
Equivalence table between tariff fractions of different versions of the Harmonized System or between national nomenclatures. Allows tracking historical changes in goods classification.
Incorrect assignment of a tariff fraction to goods that can result in fines, surcharges, loss of tariff preferences, or even technical smuggling. It is one of the main causes of customs penalties.
Procedure before customs authorities to obtain guidance on classification, origin, or valuation before conducting a foreign trade operation. Reduces risks of error and potential penalties.
Maritime transport document that evidences the contract of carriage, serves as a receipt for goods, and constitutes a title of ownership over the shipped goods. Essential for customs clearance of maritime imports.
International consignment note for road transport under the CMR Convention. Standard document in Europe evidencing the transport contract and delivery conditions of the goods.
International railway consignment note under the CIM-COTIF Convention for freight transport by rail. Standard document regulating conditions of international rail transport.
Contract of Affreightment, a long-term agreement where the shipowner commits to transporting a determined quantity of cargo over a specific period without assigning a particular vessel. Common in bulk trade.
General term for any contract for the maritime carriage of goods, whether by voyage, time, or volume. Encompasses charter parties, contracts of carriage, and volume agreements.
Process of computing the time used for loading and unloading versus the time allowed in the contract. Determines whether demurrage is payable to the shipowner or despatch to the charterer.
Document issued by the shipping line or freight forwarder confirming space reservation on a vessel for a specific shipment. Includes vessel details, route, dates, container type, and agreed rates.
Broadest cargo insurance coverage from the Institute of London Underwriters protecting against all risks of physical loss or damage to goods, with expressly listed exclusions. It is the highest level of protection.
Intermediate cargo insurance coverage protecting against specific named perils such as fire, explosion, stranding, sinking, overturning, discharge at port of refuge, and natural events like earthquakes and eruptions.
Most basic and restrictive cargo insurance coverage protecting only against major perils such as fire, explosion, sinking, stranding, collision, and general average sacrifice. Does not cover theft or water damage.
Extension of cargo insurance coverage protecting against losses caused by war, civil war, revolution, mines, torpedoes, and other acts of war. Contracted as an addition to standard ICC clauses.
Extension of cargo insurance covering losses or damage caused by strikers, locked-out workers, civil disturbances, and terrorism. Contracted additionally to ICC clauses and covers social risks.
Document evidencing the existence of a cargo insurance policy for a specific shipment. Required in CIF/CIP operations and frequently requested by banks in documentary letters of credit.
Marine insurance policy condition covering partial losses (particular average) in addition to total losses. Provides broader protection than 'free of particular average' policies.
Standard set of cargo insurance conditions published by the Institute of London Underwriters in versions A, B, and C. They are the most widely used clauses globally for maritime transport insurance.
Self-executing program on blockchain automating contractual obligations in international trade, such as releasing payments when verifiable delivery conditions are met. Reduces intermediaries and settlement times.
Legally valid digital version of the traditional bill of lading enabling electronic transfer of goods ownership. Eliminates delays from physical document shipping and reduces documentary fraud.
International trade payment instrument processed and managed on digital platforms that automate document verification, reduce processing times, and minimize manual errors.
International Ship and Port Facility Security Code adopted after 9/11. Establishes mandatory security requirements for vessels and ports in international trade.
Container Security Initiative by US CBP pre-positioning customs officers at foreign ports to inspect high-risk containers before shipment to the United States.
Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, voluntary CBP program where importers, carriers, and other trade partners commit to strengthening their supply chain security in exchange for customs facilitation.
Government regulations restricting the export of goods, technologies, and software considered sensitive for national security, non-proliferation, or foreign policy reasons.
Official document where the buyer declares the intended use of controlled goods, committing not to divert them to military purposes or unauthorized users. Required for export of dual-use goods.
Legal provision allowing authorities to control the export of goods not specifically listed when there is suspicion they will be used in weapons of mass destruction programs or embargoed destinations.
International treaty prohibiting the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons. Establishes export controls on chemical precursors and relevant dual-use substances.
Treaty prohibiting the development, production, and stockpiling of biological and toxin weapons. Establishes the basis for export controls on biological agents and related production equipment.
Export control regime (MTCR) seeking to limit the proliferation of missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction. Controls components and related technology.
Customs regime allowing foreign goods to enter and remain indefinitely in the country after payment of all applicable duties and taxes.
Customs regime allowing goods to leave the country to remain abroad indefinitely.
An electronic certificate linked to the e.firma used to authenticate and sign documents with VUCEM and other SAT systems.
The reverse logistics process of separating individual shipments that traveled grouped in a single transport unit for delivery to their respective consignees.
An unfair trade practice of exporting goods at a price lower than their normal value in the domestic market of the country of origin, causing or threatening to cause injury to the domestic industry of the importing country.
Costs and values that must be added to the price actually paid or payable for imported goods to determine customs value, including commissions, packing, assists, royalties, licenses, and certain transport and insurance costs not included in the invoice price.
An electronic platform that allows customs brokers and authorized representatives to perform foreign trade procedures digitally with the competent authorities.
A document recording the physical delivery of goods from carrier to fiscal precinct, detailing number of packages, weight, and condition.
Customs Clearance Operations Document, an electronic format containing pedimento information and annexed documents for presentation at the automated selection module.
A bank receipt proving payment of trade-related taxes and fees, required before the customs declaration can be filed with the customs authority.
A supplementary document to the commercial invoice describing the exact contents of each package, box, or container in a shipment, including weights and dimensions.
A mechanism for refunding import duties paid on inputs incorporated into products that are subsequently exported, incentivizing manufacturing exports.
An additional charge by the shipping line when a container is not returned within the agreed free time period after discharge at port.
Short-distance ground transport of containers from the port or terminal to a nearby warehouse, precinct, or destination.
An Incoterm where the seller assumes all costs and risks of delivering goods to the agreed destination in the importing country, including import clearance and duty payment.
The fourth customs valuation method starting from the domestic selling price in the importing country, deducting costs such as margins, transport, and duties.
A customs regime under which imported or exported goods remain in the destination country indefinitely, after full payment of all applicable duties and taxes.
A mechanism for total or partial refund of tariffs and taxes paid on imported inputs that were incorporated into products subsequently exported.
A rules of origin provision that allows goods containing a minimal percentage of non-originating materials (generally 7-10% of total value) to still qualify as originating.
A digital version of documents proving the value of imported goods, transmitted electronically to VUCEM as part of the foreign trade file.
An Incoterm where the seller bears all costs and risks until goods are delivered at the agreed destination, without clearing them for import or unloading them.
Expenses that may be subtracted from the price paid: transport after entry point, inland insurance, loading/unloading in national territory, and post-import assembly and installation.
Cryptographic certificate issued through VUCEM allowing customs brokers to sign COVEs and other electronic documents. Different from e.firma; two types exist: VUCEM Seal (full access) and COVE Seal (COVEs only).
System tracking the complete journey of goods from origin to final destination using RFID, GPS, IoT, and blockchain. Meets security and origin requirements.
Payment mechanism where the exporter's bank sends shipping documents to the importer's bank, releasing them against payment (D/P) or acceptance (D/A). Cheaper than a letter of credit.
Charge by the shipping line when the container is not returned within the agreed free time after vessel discharge. Charged per day per container.
Verification of customs documentation submitted with the pedimento and annexes before or during goods clearance.
Difference between the export price of a product and its normal value in the home market, expressed as a percentage.
Standard enclosed container for dry cargo, available in 20 and 40 foot sizes, used in most international maritime trade.
Bonus the shipowner pays the charterer when loading/unloading operations are completed before the agreed laytime.
Special regime for importing donated goods to assistance or charity institutions, with tax exemption.
Notification to customs when clearance is performed directly at the importer's plant, bypassing the fiscal precinct.
Customs verification power exercised from offices, requiring documentation and information from the taxpayer.
International payment method where a bank commits to pay the exporter against presentation of compliant documents.
Incoterm where the seller delivers goods unloaded at the agreed destination, assuming all risks until unloading.
Unfair trade practice where an exporter sells products in the destination market at prices below normal value.
Fourth customs valuation method based on selling price in the importing country minus deductions.
Inland cargo terminal connected with seaports by road or rail to facilitate trade.
Goods that by their nature pose a risk to health, safety, or environment during transport.
What is Dumping, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fiscal Deposit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Deconsolidation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Demurrage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Opinion, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Waste/Scrap, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Drawback, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DAP - Delivered at Place, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DDP - Delivered Duty Paid, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DPU - Delivered at Place Unloaded, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DTA - Customs Processing Fee, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Operation Document, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Deductions from Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DODA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Laboratory Ruling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Injury to Domestic Industry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Unstowage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Destruction, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Donation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Confiscation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fiscal Deposit for Transformation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DeclaraNET, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tax Address, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Drayage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Dunnage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IMMEX Decree, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is PROSEC Decree, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Free Zone Decree, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is E-Commerce De Minimis, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Maquiladora Decree (historical), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Supplier Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Customs regime that allows storing goods for a determined time in authorized warehouses.
Reverse process of consolidation where grouped loads in a shipment are separated.
What is Drawback, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Home Clearance, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Unfair practice where a product is sold in the importing country below its normal value.
What is Deductions from Transaction Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fiscal Warehouse for Transformation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Document where the importer declares the transaction value and customs value elements.
Incoterm where the seller delivers at the agreed place of destination without unloading.
What is DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Reduction Schedule, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Contribution paid for customs operations (8 per thousand for definitive imports).
What is De Minimis, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Mechanism allowing exporters to request refund of import duties paid on inputs incorporated into exported products. Regulated by article 22 of the CFF.
Fourth method starting from domestic selling price of identical or similar goods, deducting transport, commissions, profits, and taxes to determine customs value.
Mandatory contribution per customs operation, calculated as 8 per thousand of customs value for definitive imports, with reduced rates for other regimes.
Exchange rate published in the DOF to convert values to national currency for customs duty payment. Updated weekly, applied on entry payment date.
Short-distance ground transport moving containers between port, rail terminal, and importer facilities. First and last link of maritime transport.
Substances posing risks during transport, classified into 9 classes per IMO IMDG code. Require special packaging, documentation, and certified handling.
Solid unpackaged merchandise transported in large volumes in vessel holds. Includes minerals, grains, coal, cement, and fertilizers, measured in metric tons.
Daily shipping line penalty when container is not returned within free time. Costs escalate progressively and can exceed USD $200/day per container.
Shipping line charge for not returning container within agreed free time. Accrues daily and is different from terminal storage charges.
Shipping line charge when full container is kept outside terminal beyond free time for loading or unloading at importer's facilities.
Last digit of the tariff fraction calculated through a mathematical algorithm to detect data entry errors. Ensures the integrity of the fraction number in electronic customs systems.
Resolution issued by customs authorities that mandatorily establishes the tariff classification of a specific product. It has legal validity and must be respected by all customs offices in the country.
Range of dates within which the vessel must present at the port to begin loading or unloading per the charter party. If the vessel arrives outside this period, the charterer may cancel.
Amount the insured must absorb from each loss or damage before the insurance company begins to pay. The higher the deductible, the lower the insurance premium and vice versa.
Centralized repository storing large volumes of structured and unstructured data from commercial operations for advanced analysis, including trade patterns, compliance, and cost optimization.
Visualization panels presenting key foreign trade operations metrics updated continuously, including shipment status, customs clearances, costs, and compliance alerts.
Process of investigating and verifying all participants in the supply chain to identify legal, financial, security, and reputational risks. Mandatory in many trusted trader programs.
Formal commitment by the end recipient of controlled goods regarding their intended use and promise not to re-export without authorization. Differs from end-use certificate in not requiring government validation.
Mandatory process where importers electronically validate and sign merchandise value information before customs clearance.
A digital certificate issued by Mexico's SAT that identifies individuals and entities, used to electronically sign documents with legal validity.
Mandatory electronic document through which the importer declares and signs the customs value of goods imported into Mexico, filed as Format E2 through VUCEM.
The importer's Advanced Electronic Signature, required to sign Mexico's Electronic Value Declaration (MVE). Personal, non-transferable, issued by Mexico's SAT.
A reference price published by Mexico's SAT for certain imported goods, used as a parameter to detect potential undervaluation in customs declarations.
A maximum quantity of a specific product that can be exported during a determined period, established by the government to ensure domestic supply or comply with international commitments.
Financial support granted by a government to its producers or exporters to artificially reduce the cost or price of their goods in international markets, considered an unfair trade practice.
A reference value published by the Mexican customs authority (SAT) for sensitive or high-risk-of-undervaluation goods, used as a minimum comparison parameter against the declared value in customs entries to detect potential valuation irregularities.
A measure that calculates the real level of tariff protection an industry receives, considering tariffs on both inputs and the finished product.
A commercial document that substitutes for a commercial invoice when the foreign supplier does not issue a formal invoice, provided it contains the minimum required data.
A digital confirmation generated by the SAAI system confirming successful reception of the customs declaration and electronic documents by the customs authority.
A partial trade agreement negotiated under ALADI granting tariff preferences for a specific group of products between Latin American countries.
An Incoterm where the seller makes goods available at their premises, with no responsibility for transport or export clearance.
A mandatory automated verification process of customs declarations performed by authorized third parties before submission to customs, validating data, calculations, and consistency of declared information.
A mandatory digital archive the importer must compile and preserve with all documentation supporting their foreign trade operations, per Article 59 Section V of the Customs Law.
Financial aid or tax benefit a government grants to its producers or exporters to artificially reduce the cost of their products in international markets, considered an unfair practice by the WTO.
A catalog of goods, technologies, and services whose export is controlled or requires government authorization for national security, non-proliferation, or international commitment reasons.
A government program granting administrative facilitations and support to export trading companies demonstrating significant experience and volume in foreign trade operations.
A NOM issued urgently to address emergencies threatening health, safety, or the environment, without requiring the ordinary public consultation process.
Digital certificate issued by SAT (Mexican tax authority) that identifies the taxpayer and enables legally valid electronic document signing. Required for MVE transmission and other trade procedures.
Technology that automatically generates customs entry forms from invoices, classification data, and applicable regimes. Reduces data entry errors and preparation time by up to 80%.
Connection between enterprise systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and customs platforms to automate import/export data flow. Eliminates double entry and synchronizes inventory, costs, and compliance.
Special excise tax applicable to imports of certain products: alcoholic beverages, tobacco, fuels, sugary drinks, and high-calorie foods.
Electronic mechanism to pay trade duties directly from the importer's bank account to SAT, without visiting a bank. Linked to the entry form number.
Reference value published by SAT for certain tariff codes. If declared value is below the estimated price, the importer must deposit the difference in a customs guarantee account.
Mexican Official Standard establishing safety requirements for electrical and electronic devices imported or manufactured in Mexico.
Designated geographic area with tax and customs incentives for export-oriented companies.
Electronic communication standard enabling automated exchange of business documents between different companies' computer systems.
Policy protecting the exporter against non-payment risk from the foreign buyer due to commercial or political causes.
Financial operation where an export company assigns its international receivables to a financial institution in exchange for immediate liquidity.
Measure of the actual degree of tariff protection an industry receives, considering tariffs on inputs and final product.
System for electronically exchanging business documents between companies in standardized formats.
What is Packaging, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Temporary Export, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Detention, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Precautionary Seizure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Conferred Assignment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Commercial Labeling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Certified Company, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is EXW - Ex Works, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is EDI - Electronic Data Interchange, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is e-Document, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Stowage, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is EPA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Entry Summary, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ECCN, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is EAR, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Customs regime that allows goods to leave national territory to remain abroad for an unlimited time, subject to payment of corresponding contributions.
What is Processing, Transformation or Repair, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is e.
What is Sling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Border Tax Incentive, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Last Mile Delivery, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs ERP, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ECEX, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Escalation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ECEX, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Registration in VUCEM that authorizes a customs broker to act on behalf of the importer.
Precautionary measure of goods retention when irregularities in the import are presumed.
Customs regime that allows goods to leave national territory to remain abroad for an unlimited time, subject to payment of corresponding contributions.
Regime that allows temporary importation of goods to be modified and re-exported.
What is EXW (Ex Works), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Personal goods that international travelers can bring into the country duty-free.
What is eDocument, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
SAT's advanced electronic signature required for tax and customs procedures in Mexico.
Formal declaration by the owner renouncing rights over goods before customs authorities. Unlike tacit abandonment, it is voluntary and accelerates adjudication to the treasury.
Digital evolution of traditional pre-clearance using photographs, scans, and digital documentation to verify goods before clearance, enabling remote review.
Industrial process where an IMMEX company temporarily imports raw materials to manufacture export products, leveraging competitive labor and geographic proximity.
High-speed air service with 1-3 day guaranteed delivery operated by integrators like DHL, FedEx, and UPS controlling the entire chain including customs clearance.
Period of time agreed in the charter party for the charterer to load or unload goods without additional costs. If exceeded, demurrage is charged; if saved, despatch is paid.
Export Administration Regulations, US Department of Commerce regulations controlling the export of dual-use goods and technologies. Use the Commerce Control List and the deemed export concept.
Transfer of controlled technology or source code to a foreign national within US territory, considered an export under the EAR. Requires a license based on the recipient's country of origin.
A designated geographic area where goods can enter without paying duties, typically intended for manufacturing or re-export.
International agreement that eliminates or reduces tariffs and trade barriers between signatory countries.
Official form for Mexico's Electronic Value Declaration (MVE) established in Annex 1 of the RGCE 2025, used to declare the customs value of imported goods.
A designated area within a country where foreign goods can enter without payment of foreign trade taxes, under specific conditions established in customs legislation.
An Incoterm indicating that the seller delivers goods on board the vessel designated by the buyer at the agreed port of shipment, transferring risks and costs to the buyer at that point.
A logistics intermediary that organizes and coordinates international transport of goods on behalf of importers and exporters, managing routes, documentation, and complementary services.
An alternative customs valuation method that allows using the price of the first sale in a chain of successive transactions—typically from manufacturer to middleman—as the basis for determining customs value, instead of the last sale price to the importer.
The sixth and final WTO customs valuation method applied when none of the five preceding methods can determine customs value, using reasonable criteria consistent with the Agreement's principles, based on data available in the country of importation.
Taxes, fees, and charges payable upon the import or export of goods, including import duty (IGI), customs processing fee (DTA), and import VAT.
Legislation regulating and promoting Mexico's foreign trade, establishing non-tariff measures, and protecting domestic production against unfair trade practices.
An application programming interface enabling enterprise systems to connect with customs and trade platforms to automate processes and query information.
A random selection system that determines whether imported or exported goods will undergo physical customs inspection or be released without examination during customs clearance.
An area formed by two or more countries that eliminate tariffs and trade restrictions between them while each maintains its own tariff policy toward third countries.
An Incoterm where the seller delivers goods to the carrier nominated by the buyer at a named place, transferring risk and responsibility at that point.
A maritime shipping mode where an importer uses an entire container exclusively for their cargo, without sharing it with other consignees' merchandise.
An international movement promoting more equitable trade conditions for producers and workers in developing countries, guaranteeing minimum prices, social premiums, and labor and environmental standards.
An administrative provision modifying, clarifying, or supplementing the General Foreign Trade Rules during the fiscal year, published in the Official Gazette.
The sixth method allowing value determination using reasonable criteria compatible with WTO principles. Prohibits arbitrary values, fictitious prices, minimum prices, or domestic market prices.
A policy covering risks of loss, damage, or deterioration during international transport. Its cost is an addition to customs value. Premiums range from 0.3% to 1.5% of merchandise value.
All taxes, duties, and fees paid upon importing or exporting: import duty (IGI), customs processing fee (DTA), VAT (IVA), excise tax (IEPS), and countervailing duties. Calculated on customs value.
Non-recourse purchase of credit instruments (bills of exchange, promissory notes) from medium/long-term export transactions. The forfaiter assumes all political and commercial risk.
Reference exchange rate published by Banxico, determined from institutional foreign exchange market quotes. Different from the customs exchange rate; used for UDI obligations and financial reporting.
Logistics intermediary organizing international goods transport on behalf of importers or exporters. Negotiates rates with carriers and coordinates the entire logistics chain.
Document certifying that goods or their wooden packaging have been treated against pests per international phytosanitary standards.
Document issued by the exporting country's health authority confirming a product is legally marketed in its home market.
Mandatory review every five years to determine whether existing countervailing duties should be maintained, modified, or removed.
Container without side walls or roof, used for oversized cargo, heavy machinery, or large pieces.
Smaller vessel transporting containers between secondary ports and main transshipment hub ports.
Incoterm establishing that the seller delivers goods on board the vessel at the port of shipment, transferring risk and cost to the buyer.
Result of the automated selection mechanism (green light) allowing immediate release of goods without inspection.
Incoterm where the seller delivers goods alongside the vessel at the port of shipment, transferring risk to the buyer.
What is Full container load, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Strategy of relocating supply chains to geopolitically allied countries to reduce risks.
Sixth customs valuation method allowing flexibility in applying previous methods.
Standard capacity measure in maritime transport equivalent to a 40-foot container.
What is Commercial Invoice, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Proforma Invoice, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is International Freight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Local Freight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Bond, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Fraction, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FOB - Free On Board, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FCA - Free Carrier, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Advanced Electronic Signature, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is E2 Format, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Freight Forwarder, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is International Factoring, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Forfaiting, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Prepaid Freight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Collect Freight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Flat Rack Container, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FEU, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fumigation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FDA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FIEL, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Friendshoring, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is International Freight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FAST Lane, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Incoterm where the seller delivers goods on board the vessel nominated by the buyer.
National territory of 20 km parallel to international border lines with a special regime.
What is Duty-Free Allowance, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Commercial Invoice, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Procedure allowing regularization of illegally present foreign goods by paying duties and fines. Only applies when there is no express import prohibition.
Sixth and last method applying flexible criteria based on WTO Valuation Agreement principles. Cannot be based on minimum prices or arbitrary values.
Principle allowing use of the first sale price in a chain of successive sales as basis for transaction value, potentially reducing the dutiable value.
Maritime modality where a single shipper uses a complete container at flat rate regardless of weight or volume. Shipper is responsible for stuffing and sealing.
Complimentary period granted by carrier or terminal for container use or storage before charges begin. Generally 3-7 days, negotiable in contracts.
Initial leg from supplier facilities to consolidation point or international shipment. Its optimization reduces total supply chain costs.
Company grouping shipments from multiple shippers into single consignment for better rates. Operates as intermediary issuing own transport documents (HBL/HAWB).
Intermediary organizing international transport: coordinates routes, books space, manages documentation, arranges insurance, offers consolidation. Not a direct carrier.
Unit equivalent to 40-foot container (2 TEUs). Most used size in maritime trade. Available in standard, high cube, and refrigerated versions.
Residual tariff fraction within a subheading grouping goods not specified in other more specific fractions. Colloquially called a 'catch-all fraction', it implies greater customs scrutiny.
Eight-digit national tariff code used in Mexico and other countries extending the six-digit HS subheading. Digits seven and eight are for national use to provide greater specificity.
Bill of lading issued by a freight forwarder acting as a transport operator. May not be accepted by all banks in letter of credit operations unless it is a FIATA bill.
Negotiable multimodal bill of lading issued by freight forwarders authorized by FIATA. Internationally accepted by banks for documentary credit operations and meets ICC standards.
Charter contract where the shipowner makes the vessel available for a specific voyage from one port to another. The shipowner maintains operational control and pays operating expenses.
Contract where the charterer has use of the vessel for a determined period paying a daily or monthly hire. The shipowner provides vessel and crew, but the charterer decides routes and cargo to transport.
Contract where the charterer takes complete possession of the vessel without crew or operational management, assuming all operating costs, maintenance, crew, and insurance as if they were the shipowner.
Minimum damage threshold below which the insurer does not respond, but once exceeded, covers the entire damage. Different from a deductible where the established amount is always deducted.
Provision of funds or financial services for the acquisition of weapons of mass destruction, their delivery systems, or related materials. Subject to international sanctions and strict export controls.
A set of 6 hierarchical rules established by the WCO that determine how to classify goods when their classification is not immediately clear from the tariff nomenclature.
The main import duty paid when bringing goods into Mexico, determined by the TIGIE tariff classification code.
An authorized credit auxiliary institution that receives, stores, and safeguards goods, issuing deposit certificates and pledge bonds.
A tax levied on the exit of goods from national territory, applicable only to certain products such as crude oil and its derivatives.
Administrative provisions issued annually by SAT that develop and detail the application of the Customs Law and other foreign trade legislation.
The ability to track the history, location, and movement of goods throughout the entire supply chain, from origin to end consumer.
A set of guidelines and procedures ensuring products are consistently manufactured under quality, hygiene, and safety standards appropriate for their intended use.
Procedure to legalize foreign trade goods in national territory that did not complete proper customs procedures.
First rule of the Harmonized System establishing that classification is determined by the terms of headings and section or chapter notes.
Rule resolving classification when goods can be classified under two or more headings, using specificity, essential character, or numerical order.
Mexican Official Standard establishing mandatory commercial information requirements for consumer product labeling.
Customs-authorized procedure to destroy goods that don't meet regulatory requirements, are damaged, or fell into abandonment.
Transfer of temporarily imported goods from one company to another without return abroad.
What is Transport Costs, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Air Waybill, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Post-Clearance Audit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Guarantee, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Gantry Crane, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Post-clearance document review conducted by customs authorities to verify compliance.
What is Air Waybill, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Customs irregularity consisting of presenting merchandise different from what was declared. One of the most serious grounds for PAMA, may result in seizure, fines, and criminal liability.
Physical inspection act performed by customs authorities to verify that goods correspond to what was declared, including quantity, nature, origin, and classification.
Auxiliary credit institution authorized to receive goods in storage and issue deposit certificates. Functions as bonded facility for bonded warehouse regime.
Large-scale crane in port terminals for loading and unloading containers from vessels, moving 30-65 containers/hour depending on model.
Air transport of goods, the fastest but most expensive mode. Ideal for high-value, perishable, urgent, or low-volume goods where time is critical.
Virtual replica of the physical supply chain simulating operations, flows, and scenarios in real-time. Enables optimizing decisions, predicting disruptions, and evaluating changes before implementation.
Multilateral export control regime focused on preventing the proliferation of chemical and biological weapons through harmonization of export controls on precursors and related equipment.
An international 6-digit nomenclature developed by the WCO for classifying goods in international trade, used by over 200 countries worldwide.
A customs clearance modality in which goods can be inspected and released directly at the importer's or exporter's premises, without the need to transfer them to the customs bonded area.
An official WCO publication providing detailed interpretations of each heading and subheading of the Harmonized System for correct goods classification.
A document issued by COFEPRIS authorizing the import of products that may affect human health, such as food, beverages, cosmetics, and medical devices.
An official authorization issued by COFEPRIS certifying that a regulated product meets safety, efficacy, and quality requirements for commercialization in the Mexican market.
Logistics model where freight is concentrated at a main distribution center and redistributed to final destinations.
Fixed installation on national highways where customs verifies the legal status of foreign trade goods in transit.
Used household goods imported by a person changing residence to Mexico, with a special customs regime and tax exemption.
What is House Bill of Lading, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Harmonized Tariff Schedule, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Air transport document issued by the freight agent for each individual shipment within a consolidation. Relates to a master air waybill (MAWB) issued by the airline.
Handling, loading, unloading, and stowage costs at shipment point and during international transport. Additions when paid by buyer additionally to price.
Seventh edition of the Harmonized System effective since January 2022 incorporating 351 amendments. Includes new subheadings for technological, environmental, and security products, reflecting changes in global trade.
Bill of lading issued by a freight forwarder or NVOCC to its client, different from the Master BL issued by the shipping line. The consignee of the Master BL is the forwarder, who then releases cargo with the House BL.
A customs facility located within a country's interior, away from borders or ports, where customs clearance operations are performed.
Mandatory registration with Mexico's SAT required for all individuals or entities that wish to import goods into Mexico.
Mexican government program that allows temporary duty-free import of goods for manufacturing, assembly, or repair for export.
International rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) defining buyer and seller responsibilities for transport and delivery of goods.
Value Added Tax charged upon importing goods into Mexico, currently 16% on the taxable base that includes customs value plus all other import duties.
The maximum quantity of a product that can be imported at a preferential tariff rate during a specific period; beyond this, the MFN rate applies.
An IMMEX program modality allowing service companies to temporarily import goods needed to provide export services.
A contract protecting goods owners against financial losses from damage, theft, or total loss during international transportation.
The sale of domestic products to an intermediary (trading company) that handles the export process, without the producer directly performing the export operation.
Agreed conditions between buyer and seller regarding when, how, and in which currency payment will be made for a foreign trade transaction.
The second customs valuation method using the transaction value of previously imported identical goods to determine customs value.
An export promotion instrument that allows temporary duty-free import of goods needed for manufacturing, transformation, or repair of export products in Mexico.
A customs regime allowing goods to be transferred from one national customs office to another within Mexico under customs control, with duty payment deferred until the destination customs office.
The customs authority's power to inspect foreign-origin merchandise circulating within national territory, verifying its legal status and customs documentation.
An electronic document filed by the transport company with customs declaring all merchandise carried on a specific transport vehicle upon entering national territory.
A logistics intermediary organizing and coordinating international merchandise transport on behalf of importers or exporters, managing routes, consolidations, documentation, and shipment tracking.
A freight transport system using two or more different modes (maritime, ground, air, rail) with the same cargo unit without handling merchandise when changing modes.
A quantitative limit set by a government on the amount or value of a specific product that can be imported during a given period.
A regulatory measure preventing certain goods from entering national territory for reasons of public health, security, environment, morality, or international treaty compliance.
A government authorization that must be obtained before importing certain controlled products, issued by the competent authority based on merchandise type.
The maximum volume or value of a product that can be imported during an established period, administered by the Ministry of Economy as a non-tariff regulation.
Policy protecting merchandise against loss or damage during international transport. Covers maritime, land, and air risks. Can be per-shipment or open (floating) policy.
Value Added Tax paid when importing goods into Mexico. General rate of 16%, calculated on customs value plus import duty (IGI) and customs fee (DTA). Creditable for taxpayers with taxable activity.
Financing where a financial entity (factor) purchases the exporter's receivables at a discount, providing immediate liquidity. The factor assumes the collection risk from the foreign importer.
Transport of goods by road or rail between countries. In Mexico, the primary mode for trade with the US and Canada. Includes full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL).
Customs office located in the country's interior, away from borders or coasts. Allows clearance without border or port congestion. Mexico has 30 inland customs offices.
International trade term where the seller pays cost, insurance, and freight to the destination port. Risk transfers to the buyer when goods cross the ship's rail at the port of shipment.
Act by which the importer renounces introducing goods into national territory and requests their return to origin.
Customs regime allowing goods to move through the territory of one or more countries without being nationalized.
International payment instrument that cannot be modified or cancelled without consent of all parties involved.
Application of internet-connected devices to monitor in real-time the location, condition, and security of goods in international transit.
Intermediary managing transportation and logistics of foreign trade goods on behalf of importers or exporters.
Planning and control of foreign trade goods stocks considering transit times, lead times, and customs storage costs.
Material injury or threat of injury to domestic production caused by dumped or subsidized imports.
Financial institution in the importer's country that issues the letter of credit committing to payment in favor of the exporter.
Standardized tank container for transporting bulk liquids, gases, and chemicals by sea or land.
Guarantee issued by a bank backing the payment of an international commercial obligation.
Financial instrument where a bank commits to pay the exporter if required documents are presented.
Financial service where a company assigns international receivables to an institution for liquidity.
Transport of goods using two or more transport modes in a single journey, typically with containers.
What is Temporary Import, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Infraction, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Incoterms, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Import VAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Import Excise Tax, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is AI in Classification, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Additions to Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Anti-dumping Investigation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IMO, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IATA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IFT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ISF - Importer Security Filing, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ITAR, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Customs regime that allows the entry of foreign goods to remain in national territory for an unlimited time, subject to full compliance with all applicable fiscal and non-tariff obligations.
What is Declaration Identifier, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ISR - Income Tax, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is General VAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Border VAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IEPS, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ISAN, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IVU, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Inversion, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Program that allows temporary importation of goods for transformation, repair, or assembly.
What is Additions to Transaction Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Regime that allows the entry of goods into the country for a determined time without definitive tax payment.
What is Incoterms 2020, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is General Import Tax, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Import VAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Import IEPS, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Use of artificial intelligence to automate and improve the accuracy of goods classification.
Customs regime allowing transfer of goods from one customs office to another within national territory under customs control. Entry customs authorizes transit and destination completes clearance.
Transfer of goods between IMMEX companies without leaving national territory, through simultaneous virtual export and import entries. Eliminates need for physical return.
Regime allowing transfer of goods under customs control from entry to exit customs when destined for another country, without importing to the transit country.
Loss of materials during production that is inevitably consumed. In IMMEX it does not generate return or tax payment obligations. Must be recorded in Annex 24.
Renouncing introduction of goods before the automated selection mechanism is activated, allowing goods return without completing customs clearance.
Insurance policy cost during international transport. A mandatory addition that must be included in the dutiable base for duty calculations.
Federal tax on new automobiles calculated per progressive tables on sale price or customs value, applicable to domestic and imported vehicles.
Special tax on production and services applicable to imported alcoholic beverages, tobacco, fuels, pesticides, and high-calorie foods.
16% VAT on customs value plus all paid duties. Creditable against VAT charged on importer's domestic sales.
Main tariff determined by tariff heading per LIGIE, with rates from 0% to over 50%, reducible through free trade agreements and PROSEC programs.
Inland intermodal terminal with customs services functioning as seaport extension, decongesting ports and bringing clearance closer to inland importers.
Professional coordinating international transport: booking space, consolidating cargo, processing documentation, arranging insurance, door-to-door deliveries.
International door-to-door parcel service with simplified clearance for small-volume shipments. Operates under de minimis regimes streamlining border crossing.
Logistics facility equipped to transfer cargo between transport modes (maritime, rail, road). Major in Mexico: Pantaco, Monterrey, and Guadalajara.
Customs office in inland cities allowing clearance without going to border or port. Major: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Querétaro.
In the European Union, a decision issued by customs authorities of a member state determining the tariff classification of goods. Valid in all member states for a period of three years.
Legal practice of modifying the physical characteristics or presentation of a product so it qualifies under a tariff fraction with a lower duty rate. Requires deep technical knowledge of the HS and GRI.
Document issued by a surveyor detailing the nature, cause, and extent of damage to goods. It is fundamental evidence to support insurance claims and establish responsibilities.
Application of artificial intelligence to assess the risk level of foreign trade operations, identifying suspicious patterns of undervaluation, incorrect classification, or technical smuggling.
Identity verification technology based on unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris for access control in high-security customs and port zones.
International Traffic in Arms Regulations, US regulations controlling the export and import of defense articles and services listed on the US Munitions List. Administered by the Department of State.
The final stage of the logistics chain comprising the delivery of goods from the distribution center or warehouse to the final recipient, whether a point of sale or customer's address.
A designated geographic area with specialized infrastructure for concentrating transport, warehousing, distribution, and value-added services.
A bank payment instrument in which the issuing bank commits to paying the exporter if documentary conditions are met as established.
A maritime shipping mode where cargo from multiple consignees is consolidated into a single container because none has enough volume to fill a full container.
Payment instrument issued by a bank at the importer's request, guaranteeing the exporter payment if documentary conditions are met. The primary payment mechanism in international trade.
Total cost of merchandise delivered to the importer's warehouse. Includes purchase price, international freight, insurance, duties, DTA, VAT, broker fees, handling, domestic freight, and storage.
Contractually agreed period for the charterer to load or unload goods from the vessel without incurring additional costs.
Regular liner shipping conditions including loading and unloading from the vessel within the freight rate.
Strategic distribution center where goods are concentrated, sorted, and redistributed to different destinations.
Shipment that doesn't fill a complete container and is grouped with other importers' cargo to optimize costs.
What is Import License, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Packing List, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is LIGIE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Foreign Trade Law, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Federal Fees Law, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Reverse Logistics, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is UL Listing, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Denied Parties List, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Short Supply List, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Schedule, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Law, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Law that regulates Mexico's international trade including tariffs, quotas, and barriers.
Facility where goods samples are analyzed to verify their nature and classification.
Document detailing the content, weight, and dimensions of each package in a shipment.
Payments for use of patents, trademarks, or know-how that are additions to transaction value when they constitute a condition of sale.
Maritime modality where several shippers share a container, charged by volume or weight. More economical for small shipments but longer times due to consolidation.
Liquid merchandise in large volumes in tanker vessels. Includes petroleum, chemicals, vegetable oils, liquefied gas. Requires specialized port infrastructure.
Final leg from distribution center to consignee's destination. Frequently the most costly stage, representing up to 53% of total logistics cost.
Digit extension that each country adds beyond the six digits of the Harmonized System to identify goods with greater specificity. In Mexico it is 8 digits (fraction) plus 2 NICO digits.
Transport service where goods cross a continent by rail or road connecting two seaports on opposite coasts. Classic example: crossing the United States coast to coast by rail.
Policy condition excluding coverage for partial losses, paying only for total loss or general average. Was common before modern ICC clauses and represents the most basic coverage.
Money laundering method manipulating international trade operations to illicitly transfer value. Techniques include over/under-invoicing, multiple invoicing for the same goods, and fictitious shipments.
Mandatory technical regulation establishing requirements and specifications that products and services must meet in Mexico.
National Customs Value Declaration Number assigned by VUCEM upon validation and acceptance of an MVE signed by the importer.
A foreign trade tax combining an ad valorem component (percentage of value) with a specific component (fixed amount per unit), generally applying whichever results in the higher amount.
A manufacturing facility in Mexico that temporarily imports raw materials, components, and machinery for processing or assembly and re-exports the finished product, generally operating under the IMMEX program.
A branch of artificial intelligence that trains statistical models on historical tariff classification data to automatically predict the correct tariff code for goods based on their description, composition, use, and technical characteristics.
A customs office located at a seaport, responsible for controlling the entry and exit of goods transported by sea.
A WTO principle requiring that any trade advantage granted to one member country must automatically be extended to all other WTO members.
A document covering the virtual transfer of goods between companies with foreign trade programs (IMMEX) without the goods leaving national territory.
The federal legal framework governing the entry, exit, and control of goods, their transport, customs clearance, and all acts arising from foreign trade in Mexico.
A set of annual tax provisions issued by SAT complementing and detailing the application of tax laws, including foreign trade aspects.
The movement of goods using at least two different modes of transport under a single contract and transport document.
The maximum tariff rate a WTO member country applies to imports from any other member, guaranteeing equal treatment without discrimination among trading partners.
Maritime transport of goods between ports within the same country, generally reserved for national-flag vessels for sovereignty and security reasons.
A manufacturing company that temporarily imports raw materials and inputs to transform them into finished products destined primarily for export, operating under Mexico's IMMEX program.
Movement of goods using two or more transport modes (sea, road, air, rail) under a single contract and a single responsible operator. Different from intermodal which involves multiple contracts.
Maximum tariff rate that a WTO member applies to imports from other members, without discrimination.
Document covering transport of goods using two or more modes under a single contract.
WTO principle requiring each member to grant all other members the same most favorable trade treatment it grants to any one of them.
Agreement between countries to reciprocally recognize each other's conformity assessments, certifications, or test results.
Mandatory technical regulation establishing safety, quality, and labeling requirements for products in Mexico.
What is Deductive Method, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Computed Method, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cargo Manifest, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Automated Selection Mechanism, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Modulation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Multimodal Transport, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Fine, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Sampling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Shrinkage/Waste, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SAFE Framework, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Identical Goods, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Similar Goods, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is MVE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Common Market, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Dispute Settlement Mechanism, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Anti-dumping Measure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Dumping Margin, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Master Bill of Lading, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is CE Marking, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IPM - Integrated Pest Management, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Price Mechanism, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Maquila, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is International Marketplace, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Build-Down Method, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Build-Up Method, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Originating Material, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Non-Originating Material, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Rapid Response Labor Mechanism, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Valuation Method, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Random system that determines whether goods will be subjected to customs inspection.
What is Cargo Manifest, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Commercial Samples, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Personal use goods that residents can import when establishing domicile in Mexico.
Process of separating a consolidated container (LCL) into individual shipments for each consignee at the destination port. Requires coordination between freight agent, terminal, and customs broker.
Document detailing all merchandise transported on a vessel, presented by the shipping line to customs authorities at the port of arrival with vessel data, consignees, and cargo.
Tariff combining percentage of value with fixed amount per unit. Applied to textiles, footwear, and some agricultural products for protection against low-price imports.
Customs office at a seaport. Major in Mexico: Manzanillo, Lázaro Cárdenas, Veracruz, and Altamira, specialized by cargo type and trade route.
Bill of lading issued directly by the shipping line documenting the contractual relationship with the freight forwarder. Contains forwarder data as consignee, not the final importer.
Land bridge transport service where goods arrive by sea at one port and are transported by rail to an inland destination near another port. Shorter than the full land bridge.
Transport service where goods arrive by sea at a port and are transported by rail directly to an inland city that is not a port. The maritime freight includes the land leg.
Use of machine learning algorithms trained on historical tariff classification data to automatically suggest the correct fraction for goods based on their description and characteristics.
Structured methodology of customs authorities to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in foreign trade operations. Enables focusing inspection resources on high-risk shipments.
Measures other than tariffs that countries impose on international trade to protect health, safety, environment, and domestic industry.
Restrictions on international trade other than tariffs, including quotas, permits, technical standards, sanitary requirements, and other obstacles that hinder or increase the cost of importing goods.
A notification filed by the importer declaring that goods comply with the applicable Mexican Official Standard (NOM), avoiding the need for an individual NOM certificate per shipment.
A bilateral agreement recognizing foreign technical standards as equivalent to Mexican Official Standards (NOM), simplifying import requirements.
A strategy of relocating production operations to countries geographically close to the target market to reduce logistics costs and supply chain risks.
A document issued by an accredited conformity assessment body certifying that an imported product meets the applicable Mexican Official Standard requirements.
Any government measure other than a tariff that restricts, hinders, or increases the cost of international trade, including quotas, licenses, technical standards, sanitary requirements, and bureaucratic procedures.
Document issued by a regulatory authority certifying a product does not require a permit, NOM, or other regulation for import.
SAT certification program granting customs facilitations to companies demonstrating supply chain security.
Determination of a product's country of origin for statistical, labeling, and trade measure purposes, without granting tariff preferences.
Inspection equipment using X-rays or gamma rays to examine container and vehicle contents without opening them.
Voluntary technical standard establishing quality specifications for products, processes, and services.
RVC calculation method subtracting the value of non-originating materials from the transaction value of goods.
WTO obligation prohibiting discrimination between domestic and imported products once they have entered the market.
Strategy of relocating manufacturing operations to countries near the consumer market to reduce logistics costs.
What is Explanatory Note, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Nomenclature, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is NICO, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Mandatory NOM, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Voluntary NMX, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is NEEC, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Most Favored Nation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is NCI - National Commodity Index, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Legal Note, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Complementary Note, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Denial of Treatment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is NVOCC, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Declaration Number, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Mexico Nearshoring, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Official interpretation of the Harmonized System that helps classify goods correctly.
Commercial Identification Number that extends the tariff fraction for statistical control.
What is NANDINA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Mercosur Nomenclature, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Official Mexican Standards applicable to imported goods for protection and safety.
Maritime operator without vessels consolidating cargo and issuing own bills of lading. Key in LCL operations with door-to-door services.
Customs office at Mexico-US border processing the largest bilateral trade volume. Major ones: Nuevo Laredo, Ciudad Juárez, Tijuana, and Nogales.
Legal provision heading each section of the Harmonized System that establishes scope, exclusions, and definitions applicable to all chapters within that section. It has binding force for classification purposes.
Legal provision at the beginning of each chapter of the Harmonized System defining terms and establishing specific inclusions and exclusions. Together with section notes, it constitutes the legal basis for tariff classification.
Document published by the World Customs Organization providing detailed interpretations of each heading and subheading of the Harmonized System. Not legally binding but serves as the main technical reference.
European Union tariff classification system based on the Harmonized System with additional 8-digit subdivisions. Incorporates EU-specific tariffs, trade measures, and statistics.
Specific annotation within the Harmonized System defining the scope or limitations of a particular heading. May establish inclusions, exclusions, or technical definitions applicable only to that heading.
Annotation defining or limiting the scope of specific subheadings within the Harmonized System. Applied after section, chapter, and heading notes in the tariff classification process.
Commercial Identification Number, a two-digit extension to the Mexican 8-digit tariff fraction for non-tariff regulations, permits, and programs. Total 10 digits in the TIGIE.
Acronym for Notice of Readiness, document through which the vessel's master formally communicates readiness to begin loading or unloading operations at the designated port.
Application of natural language processing to automatically extract relevant data from commercial documents such as invoices, customs declarations, certificates of origin, and bills of lading.
New Certified Companies Scheme, Mexican program equivalent to AEO certifying companies with high security standards in their logistics chain. Grants benefits such as expedited clearance and reduced inspections.
International regime based on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty seeking to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Establishes strict export controls on nuclear materials and technology.
Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier, maritime transport operator issuing its own bills of lading without operating its own vessels. Consolidates cargo from various shippers and contracts space with shipping lines.
Technology that converts printed or handwritten text in scanned documents, photographs, or PDFs into editable, processable digital text, widely used in international trade to extract data from invoices, bills of lading, certificates, and other customs documents.
A process through which customs authorities verify that goods actually meet rules of origin to qualify for preferential tariff treatment.
The cost of transporting goods by sea from the port of origin to the port of destination, a fundamental component of customs value.
A marking requirement mandating that imported products clearly indicate their country of manufacture or production on the label, per applicable foreign trade regulations.
An accreditation issued by an authorized certifying body verifying that agricultural products were produced without synthetic agrochemicals, GMOs, or ionizing radiation.
Cost of transporting goods by sea, the most widely used mode in international trade. Quoted per container (FCL), per cubic meter or ton (LCL), or at a flat rate by route.
Document detailing all cargo carried by a vessel, submitted to port and customs authorities before arrival.
Container without a rigid roof, covered with a tarpaulin, used for cargo requiring top-loading with a crane.
Document issued by the ocean carrier acknowledging receipt of goods, transport conditions, and serving as title of ownership.
Storage facility outside the customs precinct authorized to hold foreign trade goods under fiscal control.
Verification power where customs physically visits the taxpayer's premises to verify compliance.
What is Certification Body, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is WTO, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is WCO, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Substantial Operation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Logistics Operator, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is OFAC, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Virtual Operation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Compliance Opinion, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Shelter Operation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
International certification that accredits security and reliability in the supply chain.
Merchandise exceeding standard container dimensions. Requires special containers (flat rack, open top), transit permits, and detailed logistics planning.
Company that has been evaluated and certified by customs authorities as a reliable complier with trade and security regulations. Receives preferential treatment in customs clearance processes.
Authorized Economic Operator, international certification promoted by the WCO recognizing companies with high security and compliance standards in the logistics chain. Facilitates trade with fewer controls.
International commercial transaction involving three parties in different countries where goods are shipped directly from seller to final buyer, but invoicing goes through an intermediary in a third country.
A mandatory electronic verification process that validates pedimento data against customs system rules before official submission to the customs authority.
A reduced or zero duty rate applied to imports from countries with which a free trade agreement or other preferential arrangement is in effect.
Document detailing the contents of each package in a shipment, including weight, dimensions, and description.
The standardized electronic format in which pedimento data is transmitted to Mexico's SAAI customs processing system.
A precautionary measure by which customs authorities retain goods when irregularities are detected during clearance or verification, such as discrepancies in classification, value, origin, or documentation.
Inspection and verification of goods performed before shipment in the country of origin, to document their condition, quantity, and characteristics prior to export.
A preliminary document issued by the seller/exporter describing the goods, prices, and conditions of a proposed commercial transaction, before the sale is finalized.
An official document issued by the plant health authority of the exporting country certifying that plant products, fruits, seeds, or wood meet the phytosanitary requirements of the importing country.
An authorization granted by Mexico's Ministry of Economy before importing goods subject to special restrictions, as a quantitative non-tariff regulation.
A reduced or zero tariff applied to goods originating from countries with which Mexico has a free trade agreement in force, provided they meet the agreement's rules of origin.
A tariff benefit granted by a country to imports from a trading partner with which it has an agreement or treaty, applying lower duties than the general rates.
An inspection of goods conducted in the country of origin or at the exporter's facilities before shipment to the destination country.
A customs clearance modality that allows inspection and release of goods directly at the importer's or exporter's facilities.
The official document that initiates the Administrative Procedure on Customs Matters when authorities detect irregularities in goods during customs inspection.
A designated area within a port where loading, unloading, storage, and customs clearance operations are conducted under authority supervision.
A Sectoral Promotion Program that allows importing inputs and machinery at preferential tariff rates for specific industries, without requiring an FTA.
A procedure allowing customs clearance to begin before goods physically arrive in national territory, accelerating their release.
The process of grouping and securing goods on a pallet to facilitate efficient handling, storage, and transportation.
A physical and documentary review of goods performed by the customs broker before filing the customs declaration, to verify merchandise matches documentation and declared classification.
A specialized facility within a seaport where cargo loading, unloading, storage, and transfer operations between vessels and ground transport take place.
A particular criterion established for a product or product group in a free trade agreement defining the productive transformations needed for goods to qualify as originating.
A regulation establishing plant protection measures to prevent introduction and spread of pests and diseases through importation of plant-origin products.
A Sectoral Promotion Program allowing imports of inputs and machinery at reduced or zero tariffs when destined for production of goods in strategic economic sectors.
The total payment the buyer makes or will make to the seller for imported goods, constituting the basis of transaction value. Includes direct payments, indirect payments, advances, and compensations.
Document detailing the contents of each package in a shipment: description, quantity, gross weight, net weight, dimensions, and marks. Accompanies the commercial invoice and bill of lading.
Legal procedure initiated by Mexican customs when serious infractions are suspected, such as smuggling or undervaluation, which may result in seizure of goods.
The customs office through which goods enter a country's territory for customs clearance.
The customs office through which goods leave a country's territory for export.
Designated area within a customs facility where loading, unloading, storage, and clearance of goods take place.
Procedure to correct errors or update data in a customs declaration already filed with authorities.
Alphanumeric code identifying the type of customs operation: A1 definitive import, A3 temporary, B1 export, etc.
Predecessor program to IMMEX that allowed temporary import of inputs for export manufacturing, now integrated into the IMMEX decree.
Temporary measure imposed during an antidumping investigation before the final determination.
Gradual tariff reduction agreed in free trade agreements implemented in stages over several years.
Supplementary section of the customs declaration containing detailed merchandise information: tariff code, quantity, unit value, and duties.
Document issued by an inspection company certifying quantity, quality, and value of goods before shipment at origin.
Processes of selecting (picking) and packaging (packing) products in a warehouse to prepare shipping orders.
Trade agreement between countries covering only certain products or sectors, not the entire tariff universe like an FTA.
Customs authority power to verify, after clearance, that the declared value in the pedimento corresponds to the actual value of goods.
Portion of proceeds from resale or subsequent use of imported goods that reverts directly or indirectly to the seller.
Use of electronic documents instead of physical documents for all international trade transactions and procedures.
Authorization issued by the Ministry of Economy or other authority required before exporting certain controlled or strategic products.
Oversized, heavy, or logistically complex goods requiring special transport planning, such as turbines, reactors, or structures.
Temporary surcharge on ocean freight during high-demand periods, such as the pre-holiday season.
Set of facilities, equipment, and services available at a port for vessel operations and cargo handling.
Estimated customs value declared when the definitive price of goods is not known at the time of clearance.
Procedure performed by the customs broker before formal clearance to verify merchandise, classification, and documentation.
Location authorized by customs for the entry and exit of goods from the national territory.
Document detailing the contents of each package or container, including weights, dimensions, and marks.
What is Prior import permit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Unit Price, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Insurance Premium, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Prior Permit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Preference, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Import Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Complementary Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Consolidated Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Virtual Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Pre-Inspection, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Administrative Procedure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Importer Registry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Sectoral Importer Registry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Pre-validation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Electronic Payment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Heading, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IMMEX Program, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is PROSEC, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is PIP, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Electronic Pre-validation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Deferred Payment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Price Actually Paid, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Minimal Processing, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Verification Procedure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Dry Port, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Arbitral Panel, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Normal Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is ProMexico, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Open Policy, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is PSS - Peak Season Surcharge, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is PROFECO, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Montreal Protocol, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Power of Attorney, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Compliance Program, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Virtual Declaration V1, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Virtual Declaration V5, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is A1 Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is G1 Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IN Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is RT Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is H1 Declaration, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SAT Portal, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Container Yard, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Estimated Prices, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Notarized Power of Attorney, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Exporter Registry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is PITEX (historical), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Floor, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Effective Protection, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Transition Period, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Core Parts, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Principal Parts, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Complementary Parts, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Labor Review Panel, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Pre-validation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Sectoral Promotion Program that grants preferential tariffs to specific productive sectors.
What is Importers Registry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Additional registration required to import goods from sensitive or regulated sectors.
Administrative Procedure in Customs Matters initiated when irregularities are detected.
Modality that allows covering multiple foreign trade operations in a single declaration.
What is Pre-clearance Inspection, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Authorization from the Ministry of Economy required to import sensitive products.
What is PIP, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Preference, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Sanitary authorization to import pharmaceuticals, processed foods, and medical devices.
Environmental authorization to import controlled substances, hazardous waste, or protected species.
Authorization from the Ministry of Defense to import weapons, ammunition, and explosives.
What is Parcel and Courier, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cargo Insurance Policy, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Documentary review performed by authorities after clearance to verify accuracy of declared data. May result in duty differences and fines within a five-year statute of limitations.
Document issued by SENASICA certifying imported plant products meet phytosanitary requirements. Mandatory for fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, wood, and forest products.
Manufacturing or assembly within a strategic bonded facility under permanent customs surveillance without time limits, unlike ordinary bonded warehouses.
Customs value declared provisionally when the importer cannot determine definitive value at clearance. Requires fiscal guarantee and subsequent definitive value presentation.
Container handling and movement operations in port terminal: loading, unloading, stowing, transfer, and positioning. Significant logistics cost component.
Terminal charge for container storage beyond free time. Different from demurrage charged by shipping line; both can accumulate significantly.
Large-dimension merchandise requiring specialized logistics planning: industrial plants, turbines, cranes. Demands special equipment and transit permits.
Heading in the Harmonized System grouping goods not specifically classified in other headings of the same chapter. Generally includes the expression 'other' and is used as a last resort for classification.
Four-digit subdivision within a chapter of the Harmonized System identifying specific groups of goods. The first two digits correspond to the chapter and the next two specify the group.
Four-digit numerical code of the Harmonized System identifying a group of goods within a chapter. It is the international standard level used by all WCO member countries.
Intermodal transport system where complete truck trailers are transported on railroad flatcars. Combines the flexibility of road transport with the efficiency of rail for long distances.
Main container concentration and distribution port where long-haul routes and feeder services converge. Characterized by high transshipment volumes, advanced infrastructure, and global connectivity.
Contract for chartering a complete vessel or part of it between the shipowner and charterer. Establishes vessel usage conditions including route, cargo, term, freight, and responsibilities of each party.
Document showing the planned distribution of goods in a vessel's holds and spaces, considering weight, volume, cargo compatibility, and ship stability.
Detailed diagram indicating the exact position of each container or cargo lot on the vessel. Essential for efficient loading and unloading operations and maintaining vessel stability.
Long-term cargo insurance contract automatically covering all shipments of the insured during its term without needing to declare each one individually. Certificates are issued for each shipment.
Cargo insurance policy covering a predetermined total amount, from which the values of each declared shipment are deducted. Once the amount is exhausted, it must be renewed or a new policy issued.
Amount paid to the insurer as consideration for cargo insurance coverage. Calculated as a percentage of insured value (generally CIF + 10%) considering type of goods, route, and contracted clause.
Formal process to request cargo insurance indemnification for loss or damage to goods. Includes immediate notification, damage documentation, expert inspection, and submission of supporting documents.
Situation where goods have not been physically lost but the cost of recovery, repair, or transport to destination exceeds their value. The insured may abandon the goods to the insurer and claim total loss.
Complete destruction of the insured goods, or irreversible deprivation of the insured's possession of them. Nothing remains to recover and the indemnification corresponds to the total insured value.
Insurance policy establishing a single maximum coverage amount for all combined liabilities, instead of separate limits by risk type. Simplifies insurance administration.
Additional liability insurance providing coverage above the limits of primary policies. Protects against catastrophic claims exceeding basic cargo insurance coverage.
Insurance that comes into effect only after the primary policy coverage is exhausted. Unlike the umbrella policy, it generally follows the same terms and conditions as the underlying policy.
Digital system connecting buyers, sellers, and banks to manage trade finance instruments such as letters of credit, factoring, and credit insurance in an automated manner.
Cloud infrastructure designed for foreign trade applications providing scalability, global availability, and regulatory compliance. Enables access from any location with internet connection.
Internal company system to ensure compliance with all applicable foreign trade regulations, including correct classification, proper valuation, restrictions, and trade sanctions.
A document issued by the manufacturer or an accredited laboratory certifying that goods meet established technical specifications for quality, composition, or performance.
A regulatory measure limiting the quantity or value of goods that can be imported or exported, established through quotas, contingents, or absolute prohibitions.
Document issued by the Ministry of Economy authorizing an importer to use a preferential tariff quota for a certain quantity of goods.
Set of measures to prevent entry of pests, diseases, or invasive species that could affect national agriculture or livestock.
Legislation regulating issuance of NOMs, NMXs, conformity assessments, and the national metrology and standardization system.
Acronym for restrictions and non-tariff regulations including permits, quotas, NOMs, labeling, and required certifications.
Criteria determining the economic nationality of goods, required to qualify for preferential tariff rates under free trade agreements.
The transfer of foreign-origin goods from a border strip or region to the interior of Mexico, complying with regulations and payment of applicable duties and taxes.
A tariff provision allowing the import of inputs, machinery, and equipment at preferential tariff rates when destined for manufacturing specific goods in Mexico, subject to Ministry of Economy authorization.
Technology that uses software robots to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks within international trade workflows, such as data entry in customs entries, tariff code lookups, form filling in VUCEM, and document reconciliation.
A legal, commercial, or control relationship between buyer and seller in an international transaction—such as subsidiaries, partners, employer-employee, or family members—that customs authorities examine to verify that the transaction price is not influenced by the relationship and reflects actual market value.
A list of goods in Rule 8 decrees that may be imported at reduced tariffs when destined for a specific authorized industrial sector.
A container equipped with an integrated refrigeration unit maintaining controlled temperatures for transporting perishable goods like food and pharmaceuticals.
The planning and management of goods flow from end consumer back to origin for repair, recycling, return, or destruction.
A treaty between three or more countries in a region establishing reciprocal tariff preferences and common trade rules to promote intraregional trade.
Payments by the buyer to the seller or a third party for the use of intellectual property associated with imported goods, which may increase customs value.
The percentage of a product's value that must originate within a free trade agreement's region for the goods to qualify as originating and access preferential tariff treatment.
Payments to IP rights holders as a condition of sale. When they are a condition of sale, they must be added to customs value per Article 65 Section III of the Customs Law.
A buyer-seller relationship (partners, control, family, exclusive distributor) that may influence price. Requires demonstrating transaction value acceptability through test values.
Re-export of temporarily imported goods within the authorized period, without payment of import duties.
Tariff imposed by a country in response to unfair trade practices or excessive tariffs from another country.
Procedure before the Ministry of Economy to determine the applicable tariff regime when there are doubts about classification or treatment.
Type of vessel designed to transport vehicles and rolling cargo that board and disembark on their own wheels.
Movement of import or export goods by railroad, especially relevant in Mexico-US land trade.
Use of software robots to automate repetitive tasks in customs processes such as data entry, validations, and document generation.
Criterion determining the economic nationality of a product for trade agreement application purposes.
Radio frequency identification technology used to track and manage goods in the supply chain.
Type of vessel designed to carry vehicles that board and disembark by rolling on ramps.
What is Proceeds of Resale, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Rule of Origin, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is De Minimis Rule, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fiscal Enclosure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Bonded Warehouse, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Strategic Bonded Warehouse, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Return, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Inspection, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Legal Representative, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Rule Eight, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is General Rules of Interpretation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Complementary Rule, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Mutual Recognition, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is RGCE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Law Regulations, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is AEO Mutual Recognition, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Advance Ruling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Desk Audit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Rules of Origin, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Auto Rules, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Textile Rules, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cargo Claim, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is REACH, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Regularization, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
The legal framework that determines the fiscal and customs treatment applicable to goods entering or leaving national territory, defining the rights and obligations of the importer/exporter according to the destination and use of the merchandise.
What is Re-expedition, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Return of Goods, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is RFC, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Legal Name, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Port Enclosure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Reach Stacker, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Reshoring, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Track and Trace, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Public Commerce Registry, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IMMEX Annual Report, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Product-Specific Rule, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Uniform Regulations, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA Steel/Aluminum Requirement, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Facility authorized by customs authority for the introduction and handling of goods.
Provision that allows importing parts and components with preferential tariffs for assembly in Mexico.
What is Origin Review, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Six rules that establish principles for classifying goods in the Harmonized System.
Act of physically examining goods and verifying their correspondence with documentation.
What is Customs Legal Representative, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Non-Tariff Regulations and Restrictions that condition the entry of certain goods.
What is Border Region, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Capital Reinvestment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is RGCE, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Criterion that determines in which country a good is considered originating for tariff purposes.
Obligation to re-export temporarily imported goods within the authorized period. Non-compliance creates a presumption of smuggling and the obligation to pay duties with surcharges.
Special relationship between buyer and seller that may influence price. Customs may question transaction value if it differs from arm's-length transactions.
Persons linked by corporate control or kinship in an international sale. Their existence does not automatically invalidate transaction value but triggers additional verification.
Maritime system where rolling cargo enters and exits via ramps. Standard method for automotive exports eliminating the need for cranes.
First general interpretative rule of the Harmonized System establishing that classification is determined by the terms of headings and section or chapter notes. It is the fundamental rule and must be applied before any other GRI.
Interpretative rule allowing classification of incomplete or unfinished articles if they have the essential character of the complete article. Also applies to disassembled or unassembled articles presented for assembly.
Interpretative rule that extends any reference to a material in a heading to include mixtures or combinations of that material with others. When there is a mixture of materials, GRI 3 rules apply.
Rule establishing that when goods may be classified under two or more headings, the heading with the most specific description is preferred over the general one. It is the first tiebreaker criterion in tariff classification.
Rule applicable to mixtures, assortments, and composite goods that cannot be classified by GRI 3a. Establishes classification according to the material or article that gives them their essential character.
Residual rule applying when classification by GRI 3a or 3b is not possible. Establishes that goods are classified in the last heading in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration.
Rule establishing that goods which cannot be classified by the preceding rules are classified under the heading appropriate to goods to which they are most akin. Used as a last resort before residual headings.
Rule establishing that cases and containers specially shaped to hold a specific article are classified with that article when presented together and are of the type normally sold with it.
Rule establishing that packing materials and containers presented with goods are classified with them when they are of the type normally used for such goods, unless they are clearly suitable for repetitive use.
Rule establishing that classification of goods in the subheadings of the same heading is determined by the terms of those subheadings, subheading notes, and the foregoing rules, applied mutatis mutandis.
Ruling issued by customs authorities before importation determining the tariff classification, origin, or valuation of goods. Provides legal certainty to the importer and facilitates customs clearance.
National provision complementing the General Interpretative Rules of the Harmonized System for the correct application of each country's tariff schedule. In Mexico they are in the General Import and Export Tax Law.
Change of the tariff fraction assigned to goods, whether due to error correction, HS update, or customs authority resolution. May have retroactive effects on tariffs paid.
Document chronologically recording all events related to the vessel's stay at port, including arrival, anchorage, berthing, start and end of operations, interruptions, and departure.
Mechanism where an insurance company transfers part of its risks to another insurer to reduce exposure to large losses. Enables insuring very high-value cargo that would exceed individual capacity.
Automatic identification system using transponders on vessels to transmit position, speed, heading, and identification data. Required by SOLAS for commercial vessels, enables global real-time tracking.
Internet of Things devices installed in containers transmitting real-time data on location, temperature, humidity, impacts, and door openings. Essential for cold chain and high-value cargo.
Robotic process automation applied to customs operations to execute repetitive tasks such as data entry in government systems, document validation, and report generation without human intervention.
An area authorized by customs authorities for the storage, custody, loading, unloading, and clearance of foreign trade goods.
An additional physical inspection of goods performed by an authorized customs examiner when the automated selection mechanism triggers a second review after the initial inspection.
An individual authorized by SAT to act on behalf of a licensed customs broker, performing all customs clearance functions during the principal broker's absence or incapacity.
A foreign trade tax calculated as a fixed amount per unit of measure of the imported merchandise (per kilogram, liter, piece, etc.), regardless of its value.
An integrated network of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in creating and delivering a product, from raw materials to the end consumer.
A registry administered by SAT where exporters of specific merchandise such as alcohol, tobacco, hydrocarbons, and other controlled products must register.
Products whose import or export is subject to special controls by authorities due to their nature, strategic value, impact on health, security, or national competitiveness.
A delimited geographic area within a country with preferential fiscal, customs, and regulatory regimes designed to attract investment, generate employment, and promote regional economic development.
The Mexican Tax Administration Service's (SAT) technology platform that electronically processes all customs operations in Mexico, including customs entry reception, duty payment, random inspection mechanism activation, and merchandise control in bonded facilities.
A streamlined customs declaration form with reduced information requirements, used for low-value or low-risk trade operations.
The illegal introduction or extraction of goods from national territory without paying applicable taxes or complying with non-tariff regulations and restrictions.
A temporary trade protection measure that allows a country to restrict imports of a product when a sudden increase causes serious injury to domestic industry.
An additional limitation or requirement applied to imports or exports of goods from a specific sector, for reasons of national security, public health, or environmental protection.
A decree identifying tariff codes for sensitive goods subject to special regulation, such as textiles, footwear, and steel, to strengthen customs control.
The third customs valuation method using the transaction value of previously imported similar goods when no identical goods reference exists.
A reduced customs procedure applicable to low-value shipments, non-commercial samples, household goods, and other merchandise qualifying for expedited processing with minimal documentation.
SAT's technology platform that electronically manages all foreign trade operations in Mexico, from customs declaration capture to goods release.
A premises authorized by customs authorities within or adjacent to a fiscal or port enclosure where handling, storage, custody, exhibition, sale, distribution, and manufacturing of goods is permitted under customs supervision.
An additional mandatory registration beyond the general importer registry required for importing goods classified in sensitive sectors such as textiles, footwear, steel, chemicals, and electronics.
A customs document filed to modify, add, or correct data from an original customs declaration already processed, without needing to file a complete new declaration.
A temporary import restriction on a product when a sudden increase causes or threatens serious injury to the domestic industry producing similar or directly competitive goods.
A Special Tax on Production and Services levied on the import of regulated products including alcoholic beverages, tobacco, fuels, sugary drinks, and high-calorie foods.
A technical document describing the physical and chemical properties of a substance or product, including safe handling information, hazards, first aid, and emergency procedures.
A company owning or operating vessels that offers regular maritime cargo transport services on established routes, issuing bills of lading and charging freight.
A mandatory regulation establishing hygiene, food safety, and security conditions that imported products for human consumption or affecting public health must meet.
Payment to an intermediary acting on the seller's behalf. It is an addition to customs value. Differs from buying commission (on buyer's behalf) which is not added.
Mexican government digital platform centralizing all foreign trade procedures. Allows submitting documents, obtaining permits, generating COVEs, and electronically transmitting MVEs.
Area of national territory outside the primary zone where nationalized goods circulate freely but may be subject to verification.
Government support granted to particular companies or industries that distorts international trade and may trigger countervailing measures.
Tariff rate that varies by time of year, generally applied to agricultural products to protect domestic production during harvest season.
WTO principle granting developing countries longer timeframes and less strict obligations in trade liberalization.
Document each WTO member submits with bound tariff rates it commits to respect for each product.
Authorization issued by Mexico's Ministry of Environment to import or export goods subject to environmental regulation.
Authorization from Mexico's Ministry of National Defense to import or export arms, ammunition, explosives, and controlled chemicals.
Authorization from Mexico's animal and plant health authority to import products of animal or plant origin.
Regulation applied to protect human, animal, or plant health against risks from imported products.
Electronic platform centralizing all government foreign trade procedures in a single digital access point.
Bank guarantee functioning as payment backup, executable only if the buyer fails to make direct payment.
Current exchange rate for immediate currency purchase/sale, used as reference for foreign trade operations.
Non-negotiable maritime transport document evidencing the contract of carriage but not functioning as title of ownership.
System where the exporter, importer, or producer directly certifies the origin of goods without government authority intervention.
Technical document providing information on properties, hazards, safe handling, and emergency measures for chemical substances.
Tariff mechanism allowing reduced-duty import of components not domestically produced, destined for specific industries.
Credit granted directly by the foreign supplier to the importer, allowing payment for goods after receipt.
Goods imported for demonstration or analysis with no commercial value that may enter with simplified procedures.
Software-as-a-service model designed to manage foreign trade operations: classification, declarations, compliance, and tracking.
Temporary import restriction to protect a domestic industry when it suffers serious injury from increased imports.
Ability to track the origin, location, and movement of goods throughout the entire supply chain.
What is Shipping line (carrier), its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Shift, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Export Subsidy, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Safeguard Measure, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Fiscal Traffic Light, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Demurrage/Detention, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Harmonized System, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Subheading, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SAAI - Automated Customs System, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Digital Seal, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Section, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is GSP, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SE - Ministry of Economy, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SHCP, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Export Credit Insurance, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Cargo Insurance, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Sea Waybill, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SENASICA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SEMARNAT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is SEDENA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Schedule B, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Screening, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Auction, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Stretch Wrap, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Undervaluation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Overvaluation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Subcontracting, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is IMMEX Inventory System, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is High-Wage LVC, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Super Core, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Harmonized System, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Government financial support to domestic producers that may distort international trade.
Temporary measure to protect national industry from a sudden increase in imports.
What is Cargo Insurance, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Result of the selection mechanism indicating whether goods go to review or pass freely.
What is Second Examination, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Payment SWIFT, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Digital certificate issued by VUCEM to electronically sign foreign trade documents.
Process by which an IMMEX company partially transfers manufacturing or assembly of goods to a third party under its fiscal responsibility. The title-holding company maintains program control and is accountable to customs authorities.
Legal note of the Harmonized System that applies exclusively at the subheading level (6 digits) and defines the scope or exclusions of goods within a heading. These notes prevail at their specific level.
Expedited clearance procedure applicable to low-value goods, samples, and low-risk operations. Reduces documentary requirements and release times compared to ordinary clearance.
Additional physical inspection that authorities may order when the first inspection detects irregularities. Conducted by an examiner independent from the original inspector.
Authorized facility where goods remain under customs control for unlimited time and may undergo processing, transformation, or repair without time limits.
Fixed tariff in monetary units per unit of measure (kg, liter, piece), independent of value. Applied to footwear, cigarettes, and some agricultural products.
US export classification system administered by the Census Bureau, based on the Harmonized System at 10 digits. It is mandatory for declaring export goods in the AES.
Six-digit subdivision of the Harmonized System providing greater detail within a heading. The first four digits are the heading and digits five and six specify the subheading.
Additional digits added to the tariff fraction for statistical and control purposes that do not affect tariff determination. Used in several countries to track specific trade flows.
Update to the Harmonized System implemented in 2017 introducing significant changes to the classification of food, chemical, and technology products. Preceded the HS 2022 version.
Top-level grouping of the Harmonized System composed of one or more related chapters. There are 21 sections identified with Roman numerals (I-XXI), each with section legal notes.
Six-digit code of the Harmonized System constituting the most detailed internationally harmonized level. Digits five and six subdivide the four-digit heading into more specific categories.
Non-negotiable maritime transport document functioning as a receipt for goods and evidence of the transport contract, but not as a title of ownership. Allows the consignee to collect cargo without presenting the original document.
Bill of lading that has been 'surrendered' or returned to the shipping line at the port of origin, indicating cargo can be released at destination without presenting the original document. Similar in effect to a telex release.
Second bill of lading issued in replacement of the original to change data such as consignee, shipper, or port. Used in triangular operations where an intermediary does not wish to reveal the source of goods.
Maritime service where cargo is transshipped from one vessel to another at an intermediate port, both operated by the same shipping line. Allows coverage of routes no single vessel could serve efficiently.
Short-distance maritime service connecting secondary ports with main hub ports where large vessel traffic is concentrated. Feeder vessels are smaller in size and capacity.
Regular maritime service with established routes, ports of call, and frequencies operating according to a published schedule. Rates apply per container or volume, not per full vessel.
Irregular maritime service without fixed routes or schedules where the entire vessel is chartered to transport bulk or large volume cargo. Rates are individually negotiated per voyage or period.
Agreement between shipping lines where one purchases spaces (slots) for containers on another's vessels. Allows offering services on routes without own vessels without the cost of chartering a full ship.
Charter agreement where a specific portion of a vessel's cargo capacity is leased. More flexible than slot charter and can apply to bulk or containerized cargo.
Acronym for Statement of Facts, detailed record of the temporal sequence of events during a vessel's stay at port. Basis for laytime calculation and determination of demurrage or despatch.
Policy protecting the insured against losses or damage to goods during maritime transport. Can cover from basic risks to all risks depending on the contracted ICC clause.
Rescue operation of a vessel, its cargo, or persons in danger at sea. The salvor has the right to a reward proportional to the value saved, shared among the owners of the vessel and cargo.
Right of the insurer who has paid a claim to recover from the party responsible for the damage the amount paid to the insured. Allows the insurance company to recover funds from the party causing the loss.
Electronic platform connecting all port stakeholders (shipping lines, terminals, customs, agents, carriers) to exchange information and coordinate operations efficiently.
Technology platform allowing real-time monitoring of goods location and status throughout the supply chain. Uses GPS, RFID, IoT, and carrier data for complete visibility.
Software as a service specialized in logistics and foreign trade operations offered by subscription. Includes shipment management, customs documentation, and supply chain visibility functionalities.
Electronic security device installed on containers that records and transmits opening, location, and status data. Provides digital evidence of container integrity throughout the journey.
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, the main maritime safety treaty of the IMO. Establishes minimum standards for vessel construction, equipment, and operation.
Automated process of verifying names of clients, suppliers, and counterparties against international sanctions lists (OFAC, EU, UN) to prevent transactions with prohibited entities.
Verification that trade partners, clients, and end users do not appear on denied or restricted party lists issued by export control authorities.
Economic and trade sanctions programs administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the US Department of the Treasury. Prohibit transactions with designated countries, entities, and individuals.
Restrictive measures adopted by the European Union against countries, entities, and individuals as a foreign policy instrument. Include arms embargoes, asset freezes, travel restrictions, and trade prohibitions.
Coercive measures adopted by the United Nations Security Council against states, entities, or individuals threatening international peace and security. Binding on all member states.
Fine or penalty imposed by customs authorities for non-compliance with fiscal, documentary, or regulatory obligations in foreign trade operations. Can be economic or even criminal in serious cases.
An 8 or 10-digit numerical code that identifies a specific product within Mexico's tariff schedule (TIGIE), determining applicable duties and regulations.
Mexico's official tariff schedule containing all tariff classification codes, descriptions, and duty rates for imported and exported goods.
The process of assigning the correct tariff code to a product within a country's tariff schedule, determining applicable duties and regulations.
Regime allowing foreign goods to enter for a limited period without duty payment, with the obligation to return them abroad.
The price actually paid or payable for imported goods, adjusted as prescribed by the WTO Valuation Agreement. It is the primary method for determining customs value.
A generic document covering the movement of goods by any mode of transport (sea, air, land, or rail) that is an indispensable requirement for customs clearance.
A quota or determined volume of goods that can be imported at a reduced preferential tariff; once the quota is exhausted, additional imports pay the higher general tariff.
A six-digit subdivision of the Harmonized System (HS) that identifies merchandise with greater precision within a tariff heading, standardized internationally.
The gradual and programmed reduction of import tariffs established in free trade agreements, bringing duties from their original level to zero over a determined period.
A four-digit classification in the Harmonized System that groups merchandise with similar characteristics within a chapter, representing the second level of the international tariff nomenclature.
An economic indicator recording the difference between the value of a country's exports and imports of goods during a determined period.
An economic situation where a country's goods imports exceed its exports during a determined period, resulting in a negative trade balance.
An economic situation where a country's goods exports exceed its imports during a determined period, resulting in a positive trade balance.
The percentage or specific amount applied to the customs value of imported goods to calculate the general import tax.
A coded classification system used to identify products in international trade and assign corresponding tariffs and taxes.
A reduction or elimination of the import tariff granted to goods originating from a country with which an active trade agreement exists.
A tariff structure where duties increase progressively with the degree of product processing, protecting domestic manufacturing industry.
An additional rate applied on top of the ordinary import tariff under special circumstances, such as trade protection measures or emergencies.
A customs regime allowing goods to be transported under customs control from one domestic customs office to another or through national territory without paying import duties.
The warehousing of goods at a fiscal precinct during the period between arrival and customs clearance, with maximum timeframes established by law.
A specialized company managing all or part of another company's logistics operations, including transport, warehousing, distribution, and customs procedures.
A two-digit division of the Harmonized System grouping goods by type or nature, constituting the first level of tariff classification with 97 active chapters.
The broadest grouping of the Harmonized System that gathers thematically related chapters, organizing all merchandise into 21 sections with Roman numeral identification.
A trade policy practice where tariffs increase progressively with the degree of processing, imposing higher duties on finished goods than on raw materials.
A maximum quantity of merchandise that can be imported or exported at a reduced or zero tariff during a given period, with the general tariff applying to quantities exceeding the quota.
A temporary modification of the applicable tariff rate for certain goods, established by presidential decree to address economic circumstances such as shortages or price control.
A logistics operation of transferring goods from one transport vehicle to another at an intermediate point, especially common at hub ports where cargo changes vessels.
An economic indicator measuring the difference between a country's exports and imports over a given period, reflecting its competitive position in international trade.
An economic situation where a country's imports exceed its exports during a given period, indicating it consumes more foreign goods than it produces for export.
An economic situation where a country's exports exceed its imports, indicating it generates more income from foreign sales than it spends on international purchases.
A pact between two or more countries establishing preferential conditions for goods and services exchange, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers to bilateral or multilateral trade.
An unfair trade practice where an exporter sells goods in a foreign market at a price below the normal value in its domestic market, harming local producers.
A total or partial prohibition on trade with a specific country or entity imposed by a government or international organization as a foreign policy instrument or economic sanction.
A punitive measure applied by a government or international body restricting commercial activities with a specific country, company, or individual to achieve foreign policy or security objectives.
The process of verifying and certifying that an imported product meets the importing country's technical standards, ensuring safety, compatibility, and quality.
A price reduction for volume, prompt payment, or other conditions. Accepted in valuation if on the invoice, a normal sector practice, and available to any buyer under the same conditions.
Freight costs to move goods to the entry point. Added as additions. The cutoff is the border or entry port; costs after that point are deductible.
Charge for container handling at the port terminal. Covers vessel discharge, yard movement, basic storage, and positioning for pickup. Paid at origin and/or destination.
10-digit code that precisely identifies a product in Mexico's General Import and Export Tax Law Tariff.
Mexican Official Standard establishing labeling requirements for textile products, garments, and accessories.
Technical regulation, standard, or conformity assessment procedure that may obstruct international trade.
Standard unit of measurement for quantifying container ship capacity or port traffic volume.
Software that plans, executes, and optimizes goods transportation, including route selection, carriers, and freight costs.
Operation where an intermediary in a third country buys goods from the exporter and resells to the final importer without goods passing through the intermediary's country.
Restrictions imposed by countries or international organizations prohibiting or limiting trade with certain countries, entities, or persons.
Origin criterion requiring non-originating inputs to undergo a specific tariff classification change during transformation.
Temporary measure reducing or eliminating tariffs on certain products for a determined period.
Complete release from tariff payment for certain products or under certain government programs.
Illegal practices to avoid full or partial tariff payment, such as undervaluation, misclassification, or smuggling.
Legal but questionable practices to reduce tariff payments, such as minimally modifying a product to change its classification.
WTO multilateral agreement establishing measures to expedite, simplify, and harmonize customs and international trade procedures.
Regime allowing goods into the country for a limited time without definitive tax payment, with return obligation.
Sum of all expenses associated with moving goods from supplier to final consumer.
Technical regulation, standard, or conformity assessment procedure that may hinder international trade.
Company providing outsourced logistics services including transport, warehousing, distribution, and inventory management.
Software that plans, executes, and optimizes the physical movement of goods both inbound and outbound.
What is Preferential Tariff Treatment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Transshipment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is International Transit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Domestic Transit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FIX Exchange Rate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is General Import Tax Rate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Traceability, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is National Treatment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Intermodal Terminal, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is FTA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USMCA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DOF Exchange Rate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Wire Transfer, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is THC - Terminal Handling Charge, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Telex Release, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is TEU, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Lashing, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Phytosanitary Treatment, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Customs regime that allows the transfer of goods under customs control from one national customs office to another, or through national territory for international transit, without payment of foreign trade taxes.
What is Container Terminal, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Pallet, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is DTA Rate, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Triangulation, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Tariff Ceiling, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Transfer of goods from one means of transport to another during the international journey.
What is Multimodal Transport, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Regime that allows the passage of foreign goods through national territory destined for another country.
Transfer of goods from one customs office to another within the same national territory.
Commercial operation involving three countries: origin, intermediary, and destination.
Agreement between countries to eliminate or reduce tariffs and barriers to bilateral trade.
What is USMCA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Formal request to customs authorities for a binding ruling on the applicable tariff heading for a specific product. The result is binding on the authority as long as product circumstances remain unchanged.
Customs procedure converting a temporary import into a definitive one through payment of updated duties. Common in IMMEX companies nationalizing previously temporarily imported goods.
Regime allowing goods entry for limited time with specific purpose, without paying taxes, on condition of returning them abroad in same state or after processing.
Regime allowing temporary departure of national goods to return within a set period, without losing national status. Applies to repairs and exhibitions.
Technical advisory services provided in relation to production of imported goods. When a condition of sale, included as additions to customs value.
Molds, dies, and equipment supplied by importer to foreign producer. Their value is prorated among imported units and added as an addition to transaction value.
Price between related parties that may be questioned by customs if it does not reflect market conditions, applying alternative valuation methods.
Freight and transport costs to the place of importation that are mandatory additions to transaction value per article 65 of the Customs Law.
Logistics requirement for goods maintained within specific temperature range throughout chain. Includes pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, and biological products.
Standard maritime transport unit equivalent to a 20-foot container. Measures vessel, terminal capacity, and port volume. A 40-foot container = 2 TEUs.
Integrated Tariff of the European Communities extending the Combined Nomenclature with two additional digits (10 digits total). Includes all community measures applicable to EU imports and exports.
Electronic instruction from the shipping line at origin to the agent at destination authorizing cargo delivery without presenting the original BL. Eliminates the need to send physical documents via international courier.
Bill of lading covering the transport of goods by two or more different modes of transport under a single contract. The multimodal transport operator assumes responsibility for the entire chain.
Bill of lading covering the complete transport of goods from origin to final destination, including transshipments or vessel changes. The main carrier assumes responsibility for the entire journey.
Movement of goods using at least two different transport modes under a single contract and one responsible operator. Optimizes costs and times combining maritime, road, rail, and air transport.
Transport of goods in the same loading unit (container) using successive transport modes without handling the goods during mode changes. Differs from multimodal in contractual unity.
Transfer of goods from one means of transport to another at an intermediate point before reaching the final destination. In maritime transport, it involves unloading containers from one vessel and loading them onto another.
Centralized command center providing end-to-end supply chain visibility, enabling proactive monitoring, decision-making, and coordination of responses to disruptions.
Trade agreement between the United States, Mexico, and Canada that replaced NAFTA in July 2020, governing trade, investment, and intellectual property rules.
Declaring in the pedimento a quantity, weight, or value lower than the actual amount of imported goods.
Commercial practices like dumping and subsidies that distort normal competitive conditions in the international market.
What is Last Resort Method, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Last Mile Delivery, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Union, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is UPCI, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is USDA, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Mexican government's electronic platform that centralizes all foreign trade procedures in a single digital window.
Digital receipt issued by VUCEM upon acceptance of a COVE or MVE, containing the unique identification number of the accepted document.
A certification granted by SAT to IMMEX companies allowing them to obtain a tax credit to avoid paying VAT and IEPS on temporary imports, instead of the bond guarantee scheme.
The set of documents proving the transaction value of imported goods, including commercial invoices, purchase contracts, payment receipts, and bank transfer records.
An electronic customs document covering merchandise transfers between IMMEX companies or bonded facilities without goods physically leaving national territory.
Accredited entity performing NOM compliance verification acts on behalf of the competent authority.
Reserved space on a vessel for a container, allocated and commercialized by the shipping line.
SAT certification allowing IMMEX companies to apply a VAT and IEPS tax credit on temporary imports instead of paying it.
Transfer of goods between IMMEX companies without goods physically leaving national territory, through virtual pedimentos.
Price reference used by customs authorities to verify the declared value of goods is correct.
What is Transaction Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Regional Value Content, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Digital Window, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Single Window, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Related Parties, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Customs Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is VUCEM, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Origin Verification, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Domiciliary Visit, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Government electronic platform for conducting foreign trade procedures at a single point.
What is Customs Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Transaction Value, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Voluntary correction of entry data filed before customs authorities initiate verification proceedings. Can avoid fines when made before any official request.
Electronic platform allowing traders to submit all documentation required by different government agencies through a single entry point. Reduces times, costs, and information duplication.
Country-level implementation of the foreign trade single window integrating all government agencies involved in import, export, and transit operations in a single platform.
Ability to track and monitor all components, materials, and products throughout the entire supply chain from supplier to end customer, in real-time or near real-time.
A document issued by an authorized surveyor certifying the gross weight, net weight, and dimensions of imported or exported goods.
A multilateral treaty establishing uniform methods for determining the customs value of imported goods, based on the transaction value.
Software controlling and optimizing warehouse operations: receiving, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch of goods.
Software optimizing warehousing operations including receiving, location, picking, and dispatching goods.
What is VUCEM Web Service, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is WS-Security, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
Modality grouping multiple operations by same importer into a single weekly entry. Simplifies administration for high-volume companies.
An official document issued by the animal health authority of the exporting country certifying that animal-origin products meet the sanitary requirements of the importing country.
Total tariff exemption for certain products, whether by FTA, decree, or special classification.
Product with a 0% general tariff rate, regardless of origin or trade agreements.
What is Free Trade Zone, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Free Trade Area, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
What is Border Free Zone, its role in foreign trade, and how it applies to customs operations in Mexico.
A delimited geographic area where goods are not subject to the ordinary customs regime.
Geographic area with special tax benefits such as reduced VAT and income tax rates.
Document certifying imported animal-origin products comply with Mexican sanitary standards. Issued by SENASICA, required for meats, dairy, fishery products, and hides.
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