Major Changes in Mexico’s Import Regulations: What You Need to Know for 2025

If you’re shipping to Mexico, there’s a big regulatory shift you need to know about. Starting 1 January 2025, the Mexican Revenue Agency (SAT) has introduced new customs rules that change the way low-value shipments are handled. These changes could mean higher costs, more paperwork, and potential delays if you’re not prepared.

For businesses moving goods to Mexico—whether it’s e-commerce, manufacturing, or wholesale—understanding these new regulations is important to keep your supply chain running smoothly. 

So, let’s talk about what’s changing and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

5 New Rules When Shipping to Mexico in 2025

1. The US$50 Duty-Free Exemption is Gone (For Most Countries)

If you’ve relied on small shipments under US$50 being duty-free, that’s no longer the case—unless you’re shipping from Canada or the U.S. under the USMCA trade agreement.

For all other countries, every shipment now incurs import taxes, no matter how small the value. This is a big shift for businesses that move low-cost goods into Mexico.

2. Flat 19% Tax on Shipments Up to US$2,500

To simplify taxation, Mexico has introduced a standard 19% tax on shipments valued between US$1 and US$2,500.

This covers duty, GST, and processing fees in one flat rate. While this makes calculating costs easier, it also means that shipments that previously might have had lower duties—or none at all—are now automatically taxed at 19%.

3. Shipments Over US$1,000 Now Require Importer Registration

If you’re sending anything over US$1,000, the consignee in Mexico must be registered with Mexican Customs under the Padrón de Importadores.

This isn’t a quick or simple process—it’s traditionally used by large-scale importers. For businesses shipping to unregistered consignees, this could cause unexpected delays or even prevent deliveries from clearing customs.

4. Formal Clearance Required for Certain Goods

If you’re shipping footwear, textiles, or other products subject to Antidumping and Countervailing Duties (AD/CVD), be prepared for extra paperwork and stricter clearance procedures.

Shipments containing these goods must now go through a formal import process, which could mean longer clearance times and additional compliance requirements. To avoid surprises, check the full list of affected goods on the Mexican government’s website before shipping.

5. No More Simplified Clearance for Shipments Over US$2,500

If your shipment exceeds US$2,500, you can no longer use the simplified clearance process.

Instead, these shipments must now go through full customs entry procedures, meaning more paperwork, longer processing times, and stricter compliance requirements. If your business frequently ships high-value goods to Mexico, this change could add significant delays to your supply chain.

What Can You Do to Avoid Delays?

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how you can keep your shipments moving:

✔ Make sure your commercial invoice is 100% complete and accurate.

Include the importer’s full name, address, phone number, email, and Tax ID.

✔ Be ready for customs inspections.

If your shipment gets flagged, authorities might ask for additional documents. So be proactive in gathering necessary paperwork.

✔ Inform your consignee in Mexico.

They need to be aware of importer registration rules, especially if your shipment is over US$1,000.

Pro Tip: To avoid delays, read our blog on 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Internationally

What This Means for Your Business

These updates directly impact e-commerce sellers, manufacturers, and logistics providers shipping to Mexico. If you don’t adjust, you risk delays, unexpected taxes, and rejected shipments.

At Couriers & Freight, we help businesses navigate regulatory changes like this every day. If you need a strategy to keep your Mexico shipments compliant, let’s talk. 

Get in touch with our team today and let’s make sure your logistics keep up with the latest rules—without the headaches.

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