Container shipping to Colombia

A 20-ft container typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500 and a 40-ft between $2,500 and $3,500. The final price depends on the origin port, the type of cargo and whether you ship a full or a shared container; when you request a quote we confirm it within one business day with the full breakdown. At import, Colombia adds 19% VAT, and most US-origin goods enter duty free under the US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, in force since May 15, 2012, when origin is documented.

From Miami: 4-7 days. From New York: 7-10 days. From Europe: 10-23 days. From Asia: 28-35 days. These are estimated ocean transit times; when you request a quote we confirm the next weekly sailing and the estimated arrival date. Air freight from Miami to Bogotá takes 1 to 2 days, and DIAN requires the advance import declaration at least 48 hours before the cargo arrives.

You need a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, the advance import declaration filed with DIAN at least 48 hours before arrival, and the import declaration. Shipments of $5,000 FOB or more also need the Andean Customs Value Declaration. Importers need a NIT, RUT enrollment and VUCE registration; a certificate of origin claims CTPA preferences, and INVIMA or ICA approvals cover regulated goods. We prepare them for you and handle customs clearance at destination, so no missing paper holds your cargo.

Choose by inland destination as much as volume: LCL fits 2 to 15 CBM through Cartagena (COCTG) or Barranquilla, a 20ft FCL beats LCL per unit from about 15 to 18 CBM, and air into BOG or MDE suits small, high-value cargo. File the DIAN advance declaration early, because LCL consolidation adds handoffs. For inland sites, compare door-to-door cost including trucking from the coast. Not sure? Tell us what you are shipping and we recommend the format with the best total cost.

Yes, through the standard import process. The importer needs a NIT and RUT with DIAN, an agencia de aduanas files the import declaration, and under Decree 659 of 2024 the advance declaration is due 48 hours before arrival. Duties reach up to 20% for non-preferential goods, plus 19% VAT. Ask your agencia de aduanas whether personal effects get any relief. We move personal items, household goods and full relocations, with customs and documentation handled door to door.

We serve Buenaventura, Turbo, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, with customs clearance handled at each one and inland delivery coordinated to the final destination if you need it. Cartagena (COCTG) is Colombia's main container port and Buenaventura (COBUN) its Pacific gateway, while El Dorado (BOG) in Bogotá is the main air cargo airport. A licensed customs agency (agencia de aduanas) files the entry with DIAN.