Brazil Shipping Guide
Brazil is South America's largest economy. Santos is Latin America's largest container port. China is Brazil's biggest trading partner with growing bilateral trade. Brazil has a complex tariff system with total tax burden reaching 60-100% of cargo value. Clearance procedures are lengthy — professional Brazilian clearing agents are essential.
Basic Information
Major Ports & Airports
Latin America's largest container port in São Paulo state, handling about one-third of Brazil's trade volume.
Brazil's second-largest port serving Rio de Janeiro state and surrounding areas.
Brazil's largest international cargo airport handling most China-Brazil air freight.
Customs & Clearance
Brazilian Customs (RFB) manages a complex multi-layered tax system including II (import duty), IPI (industrial tax), ICMS (circulation tax), and PIS/COFINS. Clearance times are lengthy.
Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- Import License (LI)
- Certificate of Origin
- INMETRO Certification (regulated products)
Restricted Items
- Certain electronics require ANATEL certification
- Used goods imports strictly limited
- Chemicals need ANVISA approval
- Food requires sanitary registration
Customs Tips
Total tax burden can reach 60-100% of cargo value. Import License (LI) is critical. INMETRO product certification has broad coverage. Use professional Brazilian clearing agents.
Logistics Services
- FCL
- LCL
- Air Freight
- DDP Door-to-Door
Logistics Challenges
Multi-layered tax system is extremely complex. Clearance can take 7-15 days. Santos Port occasionally congested. Inland transport relies mainly on roads with long distances and high costs.
Common Trade Goods
Exports from China
Imports from Country
Practical Tips
- 1Allow ample clearance time (7-15 days)
- 2Understand II/IPI/ICMS multi-tax structure
- 3Use specialized Brazilian clearing agents
- 4Note INMETRO and ANATEL certification requirements