Customs clearance in Chile determines whether your shipment is released quickly for sale or faces delays that disrupt your business. Understanding the system—from SICEX electronic filing to inspection procedures, duties calculation, and regulatory approvals—is essential for Chilean importers. This comprehensive guide explains every step, timeline, and common pitfalls.
Overview: The Chilean Customs System
Authority: The National Customs Service (Servicio Nacional de Aduanas or SNA) oversees all customs procedures.
System: Chile uses SICEX (Sistema Integrado de Comercio Exterior—Integrated Foreign Trade System), a fully electronic platform for all customs declarations.
Threshold for Broker Requirement:
- Under US$1,000 FOB value: Importer may clear goods personally (simplified procedure)
- US$1,000+ FOB value: Must hire an accredited customs broker/agent (required by law)
Key Regulatory Changes (2025):
- Elimination of VAT exemption for small imports (all goods now subject to 19% VAT regardless of value, as of October 2025)
- Mandatory advance declaration for all imports
- Non-intrusive control (scanning, data-based risk assessment) rather than physical inspection in many cases
- Doubled or quadrupled sanctions for errors, omissions, or violations
The Customs Clearance Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Goods Arrive at Port/Airport (Day 0)
What Happens:
- Shipping line or airline notifies your freight forwarder of arrival
- Goods are offloaded and stored at warehouse/terminal
- Port generates arrival notification (usually within 1-2 hours of physical arrival)
- Freight forwarder sends you notification with key information: arrival date, reference numbers, warehouse location
Timeline: Same day as physical arrival
Your Action: Request all arrival documentation from freight forwarder immediately.
Step 2: Assemble and Verify Documentation (Day 0-1)
Before your customs broker files the DIN (Import Declaration), you must provide:
Required Documents:
| Document | Provider | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Supplier (exporter) | Proof of value and contents |
| Bill of Lading or Air Waybill | Shipping line/airline | Proof of shipment and ownership |
| Packing List | Exporter or freight forwarder | Itemized contents per carton |
| Certificate of Origin | Exporter | Proves FTA eligibility (0% tariff) |
| Insurance Certificate | Insurance company | Proves cargo insurance |
| HS Code and Tariff Rate | Your broker calculates | Classification for duty purposes |
| Product-Specific Certifications | As applicable (ISP for food, SEC for electronics, SAG for agriculture) | Regulatory compliance |
| Your RUT | You provide | Chilean tax ID |
Critical Verification:
- ✅ All values match across invoice, B/L, and packing list
- ✅ Product descriptions are detailed and consistent
- ✅ RUT appears on all documents
- ✅ Certificate of Origin is present and dated before goods arrived
- ✅ All documents are in English or Spanish
- ✅ No spelling inconsistencies in company names
Red Flags That Cause Delays:
- ❌ Values differ between invoice and B/L (triggers inspection)
- ❌ Vague product descriptions (“goods,” “miscellaneous”)
- ❌ Missing Certificate of Origin (defaults to 6% MFN tariff)
- ❌ Missing RUT on documents
- ❌ Documents dated after goods arrived
Timeline: 1-2 days to assemble and verify. During this time, goods sit in warehouse (no charge typically for first 5 days).
Step 3: Customs Broker Prepares DIN (Days 1-2)
What the Broker Does:
The DIN (Declaración de Ingreso—Import Declaration) is the official document that initiates customs clearance. It’s filed electronically through SICEX and serves as:
- Official notification of import
- Basis for duty and tax calculation
- Authorization request for clearance
Broker’s Responsibilities:
- Enter product information and HS codes into SICEX
- Calculate duties (6% on CIF value for most countries; 0% if FTA-eligible)
- Calculate IVA (19% on CIF + duty)
- Identify any regulatory requirements (SAG, ISP, SEC approvals)
- Prepare provisional invoice showing all costs
- Submit DIN electronically
Sample DIN Calculation (Example: 1,000 earbuds):
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| CIF Value | $10,000 USD |
| Customs Duty (6%) | $600 (or $0 if FTA eligible) |
| IVA Base (CIF + Duty) | $10,600 |
| IVA (19%) | $2,014 |
| Broker Fee | $150-300 |
| Storage (if delayed) | $0-100/day |
| TOTAL DUTIES + TAXES | ~$2,764 (without broker fee) |
Timeline: 1-2 days for broker to prepare and file DIN.
Critical Detail: The DIN must be filed within 15 days after goods arrive. Missing this deadline creates legal complications and penalties.
Step 4: Customs Documentary Review (Days 2-4)
What Customs Does:
Once DIN is filed in SICEX, customs officials review:
- All documentation (invoice, B/L, packing list)
- HS code classification and tariff rate accuracy
- Any red flags indicating undervaluation, smuggling, or prohibited goods
- Whether product-specific agencies need to review (SAG, ISP, SEC)
Two Possible Outcomes:
Outcome A: “Sin Revisión” (Without Inspection) – FASTEST PATH
What This Means:
Customs approves the DIN based on documentation alone; no physical inspection required.
Who Gets This:
- Low-risk goods (electronics, non-regulated products)
- Consistent import history
- No documentation red flags
- Proper HS code classification
Timeline: 1-2 days after DIN filing
Next Step: Payment and release (see Step 5)
Outcome B: “Aforo” (Physical Inspection) – DELAYED PATH
What This Means:
Customs decides physical inspection is necessary to verify:
- Contents match documentation
- Products aren’t prohibited or restricted
- Values are correct
- No undeclared items
Who Gets This:
- First-time importers
- High-risk products (food, electronics, chemicals)
- Documentation discrepancies
- Random risk-based selection (about 10-20% of shipments)
- Suspicion of undervaluation
Types of Inspections:
| Inspection Type | What’s Checked | Duration | Delay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot Check (10% sampling) | Random cartons; weights and contents verified | 2-3 hours | +0.5 days |
| Full Container Inspection | Every carton opened and inspected | 4-8 hours | +1-2 days |
| Intensive Inspection | Full inspection + lab testing (food/chemicals) | 1-3 days | +3-5 days |
Timeline for Inspection:
- Notification: 1 day after customs requests inspection
- Scheduling: 1-3 days (depends on inspector availability)
- Physical inspection: 2-8 hours
- Results: 1-2 days after inspection
Total delay from inspection: 3-7 days on average
Step 5: Payment of Duties and Taxes (Days 4-7)
What You Pay:
| Item | Calculation | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Customs Duty (Ad Valorem) | 6% × CIF (or 0% if FTA) | Depends on tariff rate |
| IVA (Value-Added Tax) | 19% × (CIF + duty) | Major cost; recoverable as tax credit |
| Broker Fees | Fixed or percentage | $150-400 typical |
| Port Storage | $0-100/day after 5 days | If delayed |
| Inspection Fees | Usually included; sometimes $100-300 | If inspection required |
Who Pays:
- Under FOB/CIF: Importer pays all duties and taxes
- Under DDP: Seller paid duties already (included in price)
Payment Timeline:
Duties must be paid within 15 days after DIN acceptance (legalization). Extensions available but require special procedures.
Payment Method:
- Broker submits payment instruction to Chilean Treasury (Tesorería)
- Importer transfers funds to broker (or broker processes via credit agreement)
- Funds held in escrow; released to Treasury once goods are released
- Broker provides receipt and “Provision of Funds” document
Critical Detail: For VAT credit recovery, payment must occur in the same calendar month as the import. If you pay in February for a January import, you lose the IVA credit (19% loss).
Step 6: Parallel Regulatory Approvals (Days 2-10, Concurrent with Steps 3-5)
Depending on your product type, other government agencies must approve before release:
For Food/Beverage Imports
Agency: SAG (Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero) and ISP (Instituto de Salud Pública)
Requirements:
- Pre-import approval (ISP registration): 2-4 weeks before import
- Phytosanitary certificate (for plant products): Checked by SAG
- Sanitary certificate (for animal products): Checked by SAG
- Certificate of Free Sale (processed food): Included in documentation
Timeline:
- SAG initial review: 12 hours
- ISP review (if required): 1-5 days
- Approval or rejection: Communicated to customs
If Approved: Customs proceeds with release (concurrent with duty payment)
If Rejected: Goods can be re-exported or destroyed; no release to importer
For Electronics
Agency: SEC (Superintendencia de Electricidad y Combustibles)
Requirements:
- SEC certificate for applicable products (most electrical appliances)
- Product must have valid SEC certification before or at time of import
Timeline:
- SEC verification: 2-5 days (certificate validity check)
- Approval or rejection: If certificate is valid, approval immediate
Impact: If product lacks SEC certification, goods are detained pending certification (can take weeks)
For Chemicals/Hazardous Materials
Agency: SAG (for chemicals) or Health Ministry
Requirements:
- Safety Data Sheet (in Spanish)
- Certificate of Hazardous Product Approval
- Proper packaging and labeling
Timeline:
- SAG review: 1-2 days
- Approval or rejection: Immediate
Step 7: Release and Pickup (Days 7-10 from Initial Arrival)
What Happens:
- Customs notifies broker that goods are “cleared”
- Broker notifies you and provides release documentation
- You arrange final transport from port/airport to your warehouse
Release Documents:
- DIN (Declaración de Ingreso) finalized and stamped
- Release authorization from customs
- Port discharge permits
- Transport permits (if required)
Your Actions:
- Confirm payment cleared
- Arrange transport contractor
- Provide transport contractor with release documentation
- Receive goods at your facility and inspect (check for damage)
- File any damage claims within 7 days if applicable
Timeline: 1-2 days from approval to actual pickup
Complete Timeline: From Arrival to Release
Best-Case Scenario (No Inspection)
| Day | Activity | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | Goods arrive at port | 0 days |
| Day 1 | Freight forwarder notifies; you gather documents | 1 day |
| Day 2-3 | Broker prepares and files DIN; customs reviews | 2-3 days |
| Day 3-4 | Customs approves (sin revisión); payment made | 3-4 days |
| Day 4-5 | Goods released; final transport arranged | 4-5 days |
| TOTAL | 4-5 days from arrival to release |
Realistic Scenario (With Inspection)
| Day | Activity | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | Goods arrive at port | 0 days |
| Day 1 | Freight forwarder notifies; documents gathered | 1 day |
| Day 2-3 | Broker files DIN; customs reviews and flags for inspection | 2-3 days |
| Day 3-4 | Inspection scheduled and conducted | 3-4 days |
| Day 4-5 | Inspection results reviewed; issues resolved (if any) | 4-5 days |
| Day 5-6 | Payment made; regulatory approvals finalized | 5-6 days |
| Day 6-7 | Goods released; transport arranged | 6-7 days |
| TOTAL | 6-7 days from arrival to release |
Worst-Case Scenario (Major Issues)
| Day | Activity | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | Goods arrive | 0 days |
| Days 1-2 | Documentation incomplete; gathering additional docs | 1-2 days |
| Days 2-3 | DIN filed with corrections | 2-3 days |
| Days 3-5 | Intensive inspection due to value discrepancy | 3-5 days |
| Days 5-7 | Inspection issues discovered; negotiations with supplier | 5-7 days |
| Days 7-10 | Regulatory agency (ISP/SAG) review if food | 7-10 days |
| Days 10-12 | Payment finally made; approvals received | 10-12 days |
| Days 12-15 | Additional documentation or modifications required | 12-15 days |
| TOTAL | 12-15 days from arrival to release |
Average across all scenarios: 5-8 days from arrival to release
Recent data (2024): Average clearance time is approximately 2 days for air shipments and 36 hours for sea shipments (though this may be optimistic for first-time importers).
Key Risk Factors: What Causes Delays
Documentation Issues (Most Common – 35% of delays)
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Values don’t match | Invoice FOB ≠ B/L CIF | Triple-check before submission |
| Missing RUT | Importer RUT not on documents | Provide RUT to supplier/broker before shipment |
| Vague descriptions | “Electronics” instead of specific items | Provide detailed, specific descriptions |
| No Certificate of Origin | Forgot to request from supplier | Request COO immediately after order confirmation |
| Inconsistent spelling | Company name spelled differently across docs | Ensure exact matching across all documents |
Prevention: Spend 2 hours verifying documents before broker files DIN. This prevents 80% of documentation delays.
Undervaluation Suspicion (15% of delays)
What Triggers It:
- Price is 40%+ below market average
- Invoice price much lower than previous similar imports
- Unusual trade terms suggest hidden payments
What Happens:
- Customs flags for inspection
- May request detailed cost breakdown from supplier
- Could trigger anti-dumping investigation (rare)
Prevention: Maintain realistic market pricing; document your supplier negotiations if prices are unusually low.
Prohibited or Restricted Products (5% of delays)
Examples:
- Fresh fruits/vegetables (prohibited entirely)
- Certain electronics without proper certifications
- Chemicals without proper permits
What Happens:
- Goods detained pending approval
- May require expert evaluation
- Could result in return to origin
Prevention: Research product restrictions before ordering; confirm with SAG/ISP if uncertain.
High Inspection Rate (25% of delays)
Why Inspections Happen:
- Random selection (unavoidable)
- First-time importer (higher scrutiny)
- High-risk products (food, electronics, chemicals)
- Documentation red flags
What Causes: 2-5 day delays
Prevention: Excellent documentation reduces inspection probability significantly.
Regulatory Agency Delays (20% of delays)
Applicable To:
- Food imports (SAG + ISP approval)
- Electronics (SEC certification)
- Hazardous materials (SAG + Health Ministry)
Prevention: Pre-apply for ISP registration if importing food; verify SEC certification before shipping if importing electronics.
The SICEX System: How Electronic Filing Works
What Is SICEX?
SICEX is Chile’s integrated foreign trade system—a single electronic portal where all import/export declarations are filed, tracked, and approved.
Access:
- URL: www.sicexchile.cl (Spanish interface)
- Users: Customs brokers, logistics companies, importers (with broker authorization)
- Authentication: Via online RUT verification
What You Can Do in SICEX:
- View DIN status in real-time
- Check approval/inspection results
- Download official documents
- Track regulatory agency responses
- Monitor payment status
Key Benefits:
- ✅ Fully electronic (no paper submissions)
- ✅ Real-time status updates
- ✅ Single access point for all agencies
- ✅ Reduces processing time significantly
- ✅ Transparent (you can see exactly where your import stands)
Typical SICEX Workflow:
- Broker enters product data, declares values, selects HS codes
- System automatically routes to relevant agencies (SAG, ISP, SEC if applicable)
- Each agency reviews within their timeframe
- System calculates duties/taxes automatically
- Status updates to “approved” or “flagged for inspection”
- Once approved, goods can be released after payment
Customs Broker Selection: Critical for Success
Legal Requirement:
For imports >US$1,000 FOB, you must hire an accredited customs broker (Agente de Aduana).
Broker’s Roles:
- File DIN in SICEX
- Calculate duties and taxes
- Handle regulatory agency coordination
- Arrange payment
- Obtain release authorization
- Prepare all required documentation
What to Look For in a Broker:
| Criteria | Why It Matters | How to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Accreditation | Must be officially registered with SNA | Check at www.aduana.cl (current broker list) |
| Experience with SICEX | New brokers may not maximize efficiency | Ask how many imports they handle annually |
| Industry specialization | Some brokers specialize (food, electronics) | If importing food, use broker experienced with ISP |
| Response time | 24-hour response to questions is standard | Email test question; see how quickly they respond |
| Transparent pricing | Should itemize all fees clearly | Request written quote before committing |
| Language capability | Ideally English if you’re not Spanish-fluent | Many brokers have English-speaking staff |
Typical Broker Fees:
- Flat fee: $150-300 per import
- Or percentage: 0.5-1.5% of CIF value
- Negotiate if doing repeat imports
Finding a Broker:
- Ask your freight forwarder for recommendations
- Check SNA website: www.aduana.cl (complete list)
- Reference: BritCham Chile or other chambers of commerce
Recent Changes: 2025 Customs Reform
Chile implemented significant customs reforms effective October 25, 2025:
Change 1: Elimination of Low-Value VAT Exemption
- Before: Goods under US$41 exempt from VAT
- After: All imports subject to 19% VAT regardless of value
- Impact: Small imports now more expensive; all require payment of VAT
Change 2: Advance Mandatory Declaration
- Before: Declaration could be filed upon arrival
- After: Declaration must be filed before goods reach port
- Impact: Faster clearance if compliant; heavy penalties if non-compliant
Change 3: Stricter Sanctions
- Before: Modest penalties for errors
- After: Penalties doubled or quadrupled
- Impact: Incentivizes accuracy; compliance now essential
Change 4: Non-Intrusive Control Focus
- Before: High percentage of physical inspections
- After: Risk-based system using scanning and data analytics
- Impact: Faster clearance for low-risk goods; more technology-driven
Practical Checklist: Ensuring Smooth Customs Clearance
Before Shipment Leaves China:
- ☐ Confirm RUT appears on all documents
- ☐ Request Certificate of Origin from supplier
- ☐ For food: Request Certificate of Free Sale
- ☐ For electronics: Confirm SEC certification exists
- ☐ Verify all values match (invoice, B/L)
- ☐ Confirm product descriptions are detailed
Upon Arrival Notification:
- ☐ Receive arrival notification from freight forwarder within 24 hours
- ☐ Gather all original documents
- ☐ Verify no documents are missing
- ☐ Contact customs broker immediately
Before DIN Filing:
- ☐ Provide broker all documents in organized format
- ☐ Confirm broker understands Incoterm (FOB, CIF, DDP)
- ☐ Clarify if HS code needs verification
- ☐ Confirm broker will follow up daily
After DIN Filed:
- ☐ Prepare funds for duty payment (typically available 24-48 hours after filing)
- ☐ Monitor SICEX status daily (log into system yourself or have broker report)
- ☐ Be ready to respond to any customs questions within 24 hours
- ☐ If inspection required, ensure broker schedules it promptly
Upon Release:
- ☐ Confirm all payments cleared
- ☐ Arrange final transport within 3 days
- ☐ Inspect goods for damage upon arrival
- ☐ File any damage claims within 7 days
- ☐ Retain all customs documentation for 3+ years (tax authority audits)
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Consequence | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Forgetting to hire customs broker | Automatic rejection; goods cannot clear; fines | Hire broker immediately upon notification of arrival |
| Missing Certificate of Origin | Lose FTA benefit; pay 6% duty instead of 0% ($600+ on $10k shipment) | Request COO from supplier day 1 |
| Vague product descriptions | Goods flagged for inspection; 3-5 day delay | Provide detailed, specific product descriptions |
| Payment deadline misses | Goods held; storage fees accumulate; penalties | Mark 15-day payment deadline in calendar; prepare funds early |
| Incorrect HS code | Duties recalculated; delays; additional payment | Verify HS code with broker before filing |
| Not reading SICEX notifications | Customs questions go unanswered; goods detained | Check SICEX daily or have broker report status |
| Choosing inexperienced broker | Delays; documentation errors; missed deadlines | Check broker accreditation; ask for references |
| Losing original B/L | Significant delays; may require shipping line authorization | Request copy immediately upon arrival |
Conclusion: Smooth Customs Clearance Requires Preparation
Customs clearance in Chile averages 5-8 days from arrival to release for prepared importers, but can stretch to 12-15 days if documentation is poor or inspections are required.
The critical success factors:
- Perfect documentation (matches across all documents)
- Correct HS classification (determined before filing)
- Certificate of Origin (request immediately after order)
- Experienced customs broker (worth the fee for efficiency)
- Pre-approvals for regulated products (ISP, SAG, SEC before import)
- Funds ready (prepare payment immediately after DIN filing)
The most important rule: Better documentation prevents 80% of delays. Invest 2-3 hours verifying every document before your broker files the DIN. This prevents costly delays, inspection flags, and re-work.
Customs clearance is the final hurdle before your goods reach customers. With proper preparation and the right broker, what seems complex becomes routine—and routine is profitable.