How to Ship from the US to Argentina: Complete 2026 Guide

Introduction

Argentina is the second-largest country in South America with a population of over 46 million people, and shipping to this nation from the United States can be one of the more challenging international shipping experiences. Argentina maintains some of the most restrictive import policies in Latin America, with high tariffs, complex tax structures, and a regulatory framework managed by AFIP (Administracion Federal de Ingresos Publicos) that requires individual importers to register and comply with specific rules for receiving international packages.

The Argentine government has historically used import restrictions as a tool to protect domestic industry and manage foreign currency reserves. While policies have fluctuated with different administrations, the overall environment remains one where importing goods into Argentina involves more paperwork, higher taxes, and longer processing times than most other countries in the region.

Despite these challenges, many US-based shippers regularly send packages to Argentina. The key to success is thorough preparation, accurate documentation, and realistic expectations about costs and delivery timelines. This guide covers everything you need to know to navigate Argentina's import system successfully.

Best Carriers for Shipping to Argentina

USPS (United States Postal Service)

USPS is commonly used for personal shipments to Argentina. Priority Mail International delivers in 6 to 10 business days, First-Class Package International Service handles items under 4.4 pounds in 10 to 21 days, and Priority Mail Express International delivers in 3 to 5 business days. Correo Argentino handles last-mile delivery.

It is important to note that packages sent via USPS to Argentina are subject to the country's courier/postal import regime, which has specific limits on the number of packages an individual can receive per year and per shipment value. Customs processing through Correo Argentino can be slow, often taking 2 to 4 weeks from arrival to delivery.

UPS

UPS provides more predictable service to Argentina, with Worldwide Express delivering in 2 to 4 business days and Worldwide Expedited in 4 to 6 days. UPS customs brokerage handles the complex Argentine import documentation and can navigate AFIP requirements on behalf of the receiver. This service comes at a premium but significantly reduces the risk of extended customs holds.

FedEx

FedEx International Priority delivers to Buenos Aires and other major cities in 3 to 5 business days, with International Economy offering 5 to 7 day service. FedEx provides customs brokerage in Argentina and has experience dealing with the country's complex import regulations.

DHL Express

DHL Express Worldwide delivers in 3 to 5 business days and has extensive experience with Argentine customs. DHL is often recommended for commercial shipments to Argentina because their customs team is well-versed in navigating AFIP requirements and can process documentation efficiently.

Shipping Costs and Transit Times

Estimated costs for a 5-pound package from the US East Coast to Buenos Aires:

These rates do not include the substantial customs duties and taxes that the receiver must pay. Using atoship commercial rates can reduce carrier costs by 40% to 89%.

Customs, Duties, and Import Regulations

Argentina's customs system is among the most complex in the Americas, and understanding AFIP requirements is essential.

AFIP Registration and Import Limits

Every individual receiving international packages in Argentina must have a CUIT/CUIL number (tax identification number) and be registered with AFIP's online system. The receiver must process their own customs clearance through the AFIP portal for packages arriving via postal mail. Argentina limits individuals to receiving a certain number of international postal packages per year (historically 5 per year for the simplified regime, though this has changed periodically).

For courier shipments via UPS, FedEx, or DHL, the import process is different and handled by the carrier's customs broker, which is generally faster and less burdensome for the receiver.

De Minimis Threshold

Argentina's de minimis threshold for postal shipments is $50 USD. Packages valued under $50 may qualify for simplified customs processing with reduced duties. However, even below this threshold, some taxes still apply. For courier shipments, there is a separate simplified regime for imports under $3,000.

Customs Duties and Taxes

Argentina applies some of the highest import tax rates in Latin America. The total tax burden on imports can reach 50% or more of the declared value:

Common product duty rates:

Postal Import Regime

For packages arriving via USPS/Correo Argentino, the receiver must complete the following process: receive notification from Correo Argentino that a package has arrived, log into the AFIP website with their CUIT/CUIL, complete the VEP (Volante Electronico de Pago) form declaring the package contents and value, pay applicable duties and taxes through the AFIP online payment system, and wait for Correo Argentino to release and deliver the package. This process typically adds 1 to 3 weeks to the delivery time beyond the carrier transit period.

Required Documentation

All shipments require a detailed commercial invoice or customs declaration, complete sender and receiver information including the receiver's CUIT/CUIL number, item descriptions in Spanish when possible, HS tariff codes, declared values per item, and proof of payment or purchase receipts.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Argentina prohibits the import of narcotics and controlled substances, weapons and ammunition without permits, used clothing in commercial quantities, used tires, hazardous waste, and products violating intellectual property rights.

Restricted items requiring permits include pharmaceutical products requiring ANMAT approval, food products requiring SENASA or INAL authorization, electronics requiring ENACOM certification, cosmetics requiring ANMAT registration, medical devices requiring ANMAT approval, and agricultural products requiring SENASA phytosanitary certificates.

Argentina's used clothing ban applies to commercial quantities only. Personal items of used clothing in small quantities for personal use are generally permitted, but large shipments will be confiscated.

Packaging Tips for International Shipments

Given the long customs processing times in Argentina, packages must be durable enough to withstand weeks of storage in customs facilities. Use high-quality corrugated boxes with reinforced corners. Wrap all items individually and secure them against movement. Include a detailed packing list in Spanish inside the box.

Packages to Argentina are frequently opened for customs inspection. Pack items in a way that allows easy inspection and repacking. Avoid excessive tape or sealing that makes inspection difficult, as customs officers will open packages regardless and may not repack them carefully.

Include printed copies of the purchase receipt or invoice inside the package, as Argentine customs may request proof of the declared value. Address labels should include the receiver's full name as it appears on their CUIT/CUIL registration, their DNI (national identity document) number, and a contact phone number.

Tracking and Insurance Options

USPS tracking ends when the package enters the Argentine customs system. From that point, Correo Argentino provides intermittent updates through their website. Tracking can show no updates for days or weeks while packages sit in customs processing. Private carriers maintain better tracking visibility through customs clearance.

Insurance is strongly recommended for all shipments to Argentina. USPS includes limited coverage, while UPS and FedEx offer declared value protection up to $50,000. Given the extended time packages spend in customs and the possibility of inspection, adequate insurance coverage is important.

How to Save on International Shipping

Reducing shipping costs to Argentina requires a combination of carrier savings and tax minimization. Use atoship for commercial carrier rates at 40% to 89% below retail. Keep individual package values under $50 when possible to benefit from the simplified regime.

Send items via courier (UPS, FedEx, DHL) rather than postal mail to avoid the slower AFIP postal processing system, even though courier shipping costs more. The time savings and reduced hassle for the receiver often justify the extra cost. Ensure the receiver has their AFIP registration up to date before shipping to avoid packages being held indefinitely.

Use accurate HS codes to ensure the correct duty rate is applied. Some product categories have lower duty rates than others, and correct classification can make a meaningful difference. Do not undervalue packages, as Argentine customs actively checks declared values against reference databases and will reassess undervalued shipments, resulting in penalties and further delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shipping from the US to Argentina take? Carrier transit is 3 to 7 business days for express, 7 to 21 days for economy. However, customs processing can add 1 to 4 weeks, making total delivery time 2 to 6 weeks for postal shipments.

Why is shipping to Argentina so complicated? Argentina maintains strict import controls to protect domestic industry and manage foreign currency flows. AFIP requires individual importers to register and process their own customs clearance for postal packages, which adds complexity and time.

Does the receiver need to do anything to receive a package? Yes. For postal shipments, the receiver must have an AFIP registration and complete the VEP (electronic payment form) online to pay duties and taxes before the package is released. For courier shipments, the carrier's broker handles most of this process.

How much will the receiver pay in taxes? Total import taxes in Argentina can range from 30% to over 50% of the declared value, depending on the product category. This includes import duties, statistical fees, IVA, additional IVA, and other applicable taxes.

Can I ship electronics to Argentina? Yes, but electronics face import duties of 16% to 20% plus 21% IVA and other taxes. The receiver should be prepared for total tax payments of 40% to 50% of the declared value. Electronics may also require ENACOM certification for commercial imports.

Is there a limit on how many packages I can receive in Argentina? Under the postal simplified regime, Argentina has historically limited individuals to a certain number of packages per year. The exact limit has changed periodically. Courier shipments under $3,000 have a separate simplified process without the same frequency limits.