Shipping to

El Salvador

We guide you through the customs process both in the U.S and El Salvador, reducing the risk of delays and unexpected complications.

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El Salvador: Import Regulations, Laws & Duty taxes

Vehicle Import Eligibility

Age Limit for Used Vehicles:

  • Passenger cars: Maximum age limit is 8 years
  • Trucks & SUVs: Maximum age limit is 15 years
  • Vehicles older than this may be restricted - unless they qualify under exceptions (e.g. classic cars).

Emission Standards:
Vehicles must comply with Euro 3 emissions standards or better. Older or non-compliant vehicles may be denied entry.

Irreparable Vehicles:
Vehicles declared as irreparable, or junk are not allowed for import.

Duty Taxes & Fees

Import Duty: Varies by vehicle type and value

  • Passenger vehicles typically: 25% - 30% of CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight)
  • Trucks may have different rates

Value Added Tax (VAT/IVA): 13% applied on top of CIF + Import Duty

Specific Tax (Impuesto Específico):
Some vehicles may have additional specific taxes depending on engine size and value.

Customs Fees: administrative fees (typically $50–$600)

El Menaje de casa

(Returning Salvadorian Residents)

  • Who Qualifies?
  • Salvadorans who have lived continuously abroad for at least 1 year and are returning permanently.
  • Vehicle Benefit:
  • May import one personal-use vehicle tax-free under the "El Menaje de Casa" exemption.
  • Vehicle must not exceed $28,000 in value.
  • Vehicle must comply with age and emissions standards.
  • Household Goods Benefit:
  • In addition to the vehicle, eligible returnees may import household goods and personal effects tax-free.
  • Documentation Needed:
  • Proof of residency abroad (utility bills, lease contracts, pay stubs)
  • Passport with entry/exit stamps
  • Application for exemption filed with Salvadoran Customs.


Important notes and recommendations

✅ Use a trusted Salvadoran customs broker to navigate duty calculations and avoid mistakes. (We would be happy to be your agent!)
✅ Duty taxes are based on official valuation guides — not just purchase price. Customs may adjust declared value.
✅ Processing time at Salvadoran Customs can range from 5–10 business days.
✅ Vehicles under the El Menaje de Casa program may NOT be sold for at least 3 years after import.

WORKING TOGETHER

Procedures & Important Information

01

Required Documentation


  • Original Title (no liens) or notarized letter from lien holder permitting export.
  • Bill of sale (If recently purchased)
  • Photo ID/Passport
  • Power of attorney (Not always required)
  • NIT ( Tax ID number ) of the importer in El Salvador


02

Vehicle Preparation

• Clean the vehicle: Wash exterior and interior (to comply with customs and quarantine inspections)

• Remove Personal Items: No personal belongings inside the car ( Unless otherwise authorized- check with us first)

• Check fluids & battery: Prevent unnecessary delays and issues during transport

• Document Condition: Take photos of the vehicle from all angles as proof of pre-shipment condition







03

Booking the shipping


  • Contact us early to reserve space (ocean shipping slots fill quickly)
  • Provide accurate vehicle dimensions and weight
  • Select your desired shipping method:
  • RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) — most economical, vehicle is driven on/off the ship
  • Container — provides added security and option to include spare parts or personal goods (restrictions apply)


04

Delivery to port




  • Deliver vehicle to the designated U.S. port of departure or schedule door-to-port transport through us
  • Bring all required documents at delivery time