South AmericaShipping Heavy Equipment to Chile
Chile is the world's largest copper producer and a key market for mining equipment. Our logistics expertise ensures reliable delivery to mining operations in the Atacama Desert, central valleys, and Patagonia.
Main Ports
- Port of San Antonio
- Port of Valparaíso
- Port of Antofagasta
Shipping Methods
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
- Flat Rack Container
- Breakbulk
Key Regulations
- SAG Phytosanitary
- Customs Valuation
- Mining Equipment
Common Cargo
- Mining Excavators
- Haul Trucks
- Crushers
Main Ports in Chile
Port of San Antonio
Major Seaport
Port of Valparaíso
Major Seaport
Port of Antofagasta
Mining Port
Port of Mejillones
Industrial Port
Shipping Routes & Transit Times to Chile
| From (US Port) | To | Service | Est. Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston, TX | San Antonio / Valparaíso | Container / Breakbulk | 18–30 days |
| Savannah, GA | Iquique (ZOFRI) | Container / RoRo | 20–32 days |
Transit times are indicative port-to-port estimates and vary by carrier, season, and sailing schedule.
U.S. Departure Ports for Shipping to Chile
We ship to Chile (Port of San Antonio) from every major U.S. port. Typical ocean transit is 21-28 days.
Gulf Coast
East Coast
Import Duty, VAT & Taxes for Chile
New goods and machinery attract a 6% ad valorem duty on the CIF value — often 0% for qualifying US-origin goods under the US–Chile Free Trade Agreement — plus 19% VAT (IVA) on the CIF value plus duty.
- Import Duty
- 6% of CIF; 0% for qualifying US-origin goods under the US–Chile FTA
- VAT / Sales Tax
- IVA 19%
- Other Taxes & Fees
- An engine-displacement / luxury surcharge can apply to certain vehicles
Source: Servicio Nacional de Aduanas / SII · Last verified: June 2026
Used Vehicle & Equipment Age Limits
Import of used passenger and cargo vehicles into mainland Chile is generally prohibited, with narrow exceptions (e.g. returning residents). The Iquique free zone (ZOFRI) is widely used for vehicles and as a re-export hub to Bolivia and Paraguay.
Source: Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (Ley 18.483) · Last verified: June 2026
Import Regulations & Requirements
SAG Phytosanitary
Chile's Agricultural Service (SAG) requires phytosanitary certification for used equipment.
Customs Valuation
CIF value determines duty calculation. Accurate documentation is essential.
Mining Equipment
Special permits may be required for certain mining machinery and explosives-related equipment.
Required Documentation
Customs & Clearance Notes for Chile
What makes Chile tricky
- The ban on used-vehicle imports into mainland Chile surprises many shippers — most used units route through ZOFRI.
- Andean and landlocked onward moves (Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina) add overland legs and border formalities.
- New or eligible machinery of US origin can often enter duty-free under the US–Chile FTA with a valid origin declaration.
- Iquique (ZOFRI) is the standard gateway for cargo bound for Bolivia and Paraguay; goods are exempt from duty/VAT while they remain in the zone.
Seasonality & Scheduling
Andean mountain-pass routes can be affected by winter weather (June–August); mining-region project schedules drive seasonal demand peaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan your shipment to Chile
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Get expert logistics support for your shipment to Chile. We handle customs, documentation, and delivery coordination.