On October 14, 2024, the Mexican Tax Administration System (SAT) published significant changes to the Customs Regulations, which took effect immediately on October 15, 2024.
Among the most impactful changes are the mandatory requirements to declare the importer’s Tax ID (RFC) and provide full details of both the importer and consignee for all air and ground shipments.
Additionally, a new requirement mandates that detailed commercial descriptions of the goods be provided, replacing any previously allowed generic descriptions.
These changes aim to enhance the accuracy and transparency of customs declarations, ensuring compliance with updated legal standards. For example, the following terms will no longer be accepted:
- “Courier and parcel items”
- “Miscellaneous/various items”
- “Gift”
- “Present”
- “Sample”
Any description that does not allow a clear identification of the merchandise will also not be allowed.
Examples of Unacceptable vs Acceptable Cargo Descriptions can be found at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov)
Now all of this got me thinking… Keeping things simple for Customs agents is the key. If they have to stop and think, then delays and issues may occur. Disclaimer: Customs agents aren’t dumb and they’re not bad people, but one thing is for sure; they are NOT experts on your product.
First, I thought, “How would you describe the Imodium Q-36 Space Modulator?”
In the position of a Customs agent, I would instantly think of Imodium, a registered trademark of Johnson & Johonson and would likely look for paperwork allowing the importer to utilize the trademarked name.
Then I would think, “Space! Yikes, is this thing used in outer space? Where is the Import or the Export License?”
And then after I was all worked up in a lather, I would look at the word “modulator” and think, “This is some sort of telecommunications device needing in-country certification like NOM, or UL, or CE. Where’s that paperwork?”
At the very last moment I would get a hunch, because I’m from Gen-X and a fan of Looney Tunes, and decide to delay your shipment further and order a costly inspection.
Here is what I would find when searching for more information:
Now I would focus on the word “Explosive” on the packaging. And call the bomb squad.
Notice that I have never once given thought to the HS number you provided or that it’s actually Illudium Q36 and not Imodium.
It’s ALL in the description of the product.
How about: “Marvin the Martian® toy”?
The SBDC Go Global Initiative is here to assist you in international trade and can help by providing consulting resources to build an effective supply chain and logistics strategy.
