Customs Requirements when Moving to Costa Rica
When shipping to Costa Rica, please bear in mind the following requirements:
Electrical Appliances
If you are shipping any electrical appliances, you will need to provide us with details of the brand, model and series numbers so that we can state this on your packing list / inventory. This is a customs requirement.
New Items
If you are shipping any new items, please advise your Move Manager as this will be need to be identified in the packing list / inventory also. This is to avoid delays to your shipments should there be an inspection by the Customs Authorities in Costa Rica.
Moving to Costa Rica: Prohibited or Restricted Items
Prohibited Items
You are not able to include the following items in your shipment to Costa Rica: alcohol, food items, wicker, rattan, bamboo (items made from plant material), live plants, narcotics, weapons.
Cosmetics / Toiletries / Soap
Please be advised: cosmetics, toiletries such as shampoo and soap require a permit which can take up to a month to obtain. We therefore recommend that such items are not included in your shipment to Costa Rica.
Medicine
Medicine – a permit is required to import medicine into Costa Rica. This can take approximately 15-30 days.
Car Shipping to Costa Rica
If you would like to take your car with you, you will need to provide your Move Manager with the original property title of the vehicle and /or circulation card or any legal document which contains information on the ownership of the vehicle.
Pet Relocation to Costa Rica
You will need the following documents if you are taking your pet with you when you move to Costa Rica: vaccination certificates, export health certificate and an invoice or sworn declaration containing information on the value of the pet.
The information above is provided by LACMA, the Latin American and Caribbean Movers Association.
Please note that regulations can change on a regular basis so please contact us if you require further information regarding your move to Costa Rica. A full Customs Guide to Costa Rica is available upon request.
