Frequently asked questions

An individual authorized by the Salvadoran State, through the General Directorate of Customs (DGA), as an auxiliary of the public customs function. They represent importers and exporters before customs: they classify the goods, prepare and submit the declaration, calculate duties and taxes, and follow the procedure through to clearance.

It depends on the type of operation and the customs regime. Most commercial operations are handled through a customs broker, who also advises you to avoid errors, delays and fines. Ask a broker about your specific case.

A customs broker is authorized by the DGA, has an official code and is legally liable for their work. A “tramitador” has no such authorization. Before handing over documents or goods, verify your broker.

Customs clearance can only be carried out by a customs broker authorized by the General Directorate of Customs. When a courier, a deconsolidator or another company offers this service, it does so through a customs broker. Hiring a broker directly gives you direct contact with the person accountable for your procedure. Verify your broker.

Enter their AA code or name on Verify broker. If they are an active member, you will see their contact details and their verification QR code.

The customs broker is jointly liable, in good faith, for your foreign trade operation. That is why it is important to give them complete and accurate information: invoice, transport documents and permits.

Usually: commercial invoice, transport document (bill of lading, air waybill or consignment note), packing list and, depending on the goods, permits or certificates (for example phytosanitary or health certificates) and the certificate or declaration of origin if a trade agreement applies. Your customs broker will tell you what your case requires.

Mainly, import tariff duties (DAI) are paid according to the tariff classification of the goods, plus VAT (IVA, 13%). Some products also pay specific taxes (for example beverages, tobacco or vehicles). The calculation is based on the customs value of the goods.

It means assigning each product its code in the Central American Tariff System (SAC). That code determines the duties payable and the permits required. See the SAC 2022, 7th Amendment (Spanish).

Among others: food, products of animal or plant origin, medicines, chemicals, weapons and ammunition. Each requires authorization from the relevant institution before clearance. Your customs broker will guide you on the permits your goods need.

It depends on the goods, on the documentation being complete and on the result of customs risk selection (documentary inspection, physical inspection or release without inspection). With correct documents and up-to-date permits, the process is faster.

You need the title or purchase invoice, the transport document and the customs declaration. Import duties (DAI), VAT and the first-registration tax are paid, and there are requirements regarding the vehicle’s age and type. A customs broker can quote the total cost before you buy.

Contact your customs broker to find out why (a missing document or permit, or a discrepancy in the declaration) and how to resolve it. Acting quickly avoids storage costs and possible fines.

Yes. If the goods meet the agreement’s rules of origin and the corresponding certificate or declaration of origin is presented, they may qualify for preferential tariff treatment. See the trade agreements in force (Spanish).

The Central American Single Declaration (DUCA) is the document used to declare goods to customs throughout the region. It has versions for trade within Central America, for imports and exports with other countries, and for goods in transit.

The Association of Customs Brokers of El Salvador is a non-profit professional association of customs brokers authorized by the DGA. Membership requirements are set out in the Internal regulations (Spanish).

In our customs broker directory you can search by name or code and contact brokers directly by phone, WhatsApp or email.

By WhatsApp at +503 7989-0257, by phone at +503 2235-7443 or by email at administracion@asodaasv.org. You can also visit us at Centro Comercial La Gran Vía, Building 8, Unit 9, Antiguo Cuscatlán.