Central AmericaShipping Heavy Equipment to Nicaragua
Nicaragua's agriculture, mining, and construction sectors drive equipment demand. Caribbean and Pacific ports provide access options.
Main Ports
- Puerto de Corinto
- Puerto Cabezas (Bilwi)
Shipping Methods
- Flat Rack Container
- Breakbulk
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
Key Regulations
- Nicaraguan Customs (DGA)
- CAFTA-DR
- Import Licensing
Common Cargo
- Agricultural Equipment
- Mining Equipment
- Construction Machinery
Main Ports in Nicaragua
Puerto de Corinto
Pacific Port
Puerto Cabezas (Bilwi)
Caribbean Port
Shipping Routes & Transit Times to Nicaragua
| From (US Port) | To | Service | Est. Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston, TX | Puerto de Corinto | Container / RoRo | 12–18 days |
Transit times are indicative port-to-port estimates and vary by carrier, season, and sailing schedule.
U.S. Departure Ports for Shipping to Nicaragua
We ship to Nicaragua (Puerto de Corinto) from every major U.S. port. Typical ocean transit is 12-18 days.
Gulf Coast
East Coast
Import Duty, VAT & Taxes for Nicaragua
Nicaragua applies a Central American CET import duty plus 15% VAT (IVA) and a selective consumption tax (ISC), with age limits on used vehicles.
- Import Duty
- CET duty by type (confirm by HS code)
- VAT / Sales Tax
- IVA 15%
- Other Taxes & Fees
- Selective consumption tax (ISC); age-based limits on used vehicles
Source: Dirección General de Servicios Aduaneros (Nicaragua) · Last verified: June 2026
Import Regulations & Requirements
Nicaraguan Customs (DGA)
National customs procedures apply.
CAFTA-DR
Free trade agreement with US for preferential access.
Import Licensing
Certain goods may require prior authorization.
Required Documentation
Customs & Clearance Notes for Nicaragua
- Corinto is the main Pacific gateway.
- Qualifying new US-origin vehicles may get CAFTA-DR preferential duty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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