Shipping to South America: Brazil, Chile, Argentina & More

Complete Guide to Shipping to South America

South America is a vital export market for Chinese goods, but the region's trade policies, customs procedures, and logistics environment present unique complexities. This article covers the key considerations for shipping to major South American countries.

Key Ports Overview

Brazil:

• **Santos**: South America's largest port, handling ~60% of Brazil's imports and exports
• **Paranaguá**: Brazil's second-largest port, primarily for agricultural and industrial goods

Chile:

• **Valparaíso**: Chile's main port
• **San Antonio**: Chile's second-largest port

Argentina:

• **Buenos Aires**: Argentina's largest port

From major Chinese ports, transit times are approximately 30–40 days to the east coast and 25–35 days to the west coast of South America.

Shipping to Brazil — Key Points

Brazil is South America's largest economy and has one of the most complex customs systems:

Import restrictions and requirements:

• High import tariffs, averaging ~35%, with some goods even higher
• **RADAR system** (Importer Registration and Tracking) — importers must be registered
• **ANVISA certification** (National Health Surveillance Agency) — for food, cosmetics, medical devices
• **INMETRO certification** — for electronics, toys, personal protective equipment

Clearance time: Average 7–15 business days; inspections can extend this further.

Critical note: Brazil has extremely strict bill of lading requirements. The NCM code (Brazilian customs code), consignee's CNPJ (tax ID), and other details must be completely accurate, or penalties and return shipments may result.

Shipping to Chile — Key Points

Chile has one of South America's most open trade environments:

• Low tariff rates — most goods at a flat **6%** rate
• China-Chile **Free Trade Agreement (FTA)** — many goods qualify for zero or reduced tariffs
• Efficient clearance, typically completed in 3–5 business days
• **Certificate of Origin** (Form F/E) required for FTA preferential rates

Shipping to Argentina — Key Points

Argentina's trade policies fluctuate significantly:

• Strict import controls via the **SIMI system** (Import Monitoring System); some goods require import licenses
• Tight foreign exchange controls — importers face restrictions on obtaining USD for payments
• Combined tariffs and domestic taxes can exceed **50%** of CIF value
• Relatively long clearance times, typically 10–20 business days

General Considerations for South America

1. Wood Packaging Requirements All wood packaging entering South America must be treated per **ISPM15 standards** with IPPC markings. Untreated wood packaging will be refused entry or destroyed on site.

2. Documentation Requirements

• Commercial Invoice (consular legalization required for Argentina)
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (original recommended)
• Certificate of Origin
• Inspection/quarantine certificates (product-dependent)

3. Recommended Trade Terms

• Brazil: **CIF or DDP** recommended
• Chile: **FOB or CIF** both acceptable
• Argentina: **FOB** recommended — let the buyer handle clearance

4. Seasonal Factors South America's year-end period (November–January) is peak import season with worsening port congestion. Plan shipments well in advance.

Cost and Transit Optimization

• Leverage the China-Chile FTA for market development
• Consider direct sailings for bulk cargo to avoid transshipment delays
• Choose carriers strong on South America routes (MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, Evergreen)
• Build long-term partnerships with local customs brokers

Contact us for professional South America route solutions and the latest freight quotes.