What should I import: Courier or Ship?

At Sentire Customs Broker, we help you import easily and safely.
If you're just starting out and don't know where to begin, we'll explain the two most common ways to import merchandise:

Comparison table: Courier vs. Ship

Concept Courier (Air) Ship (Maritime)
Type of load Light, small, urgent, expensive Heavy, large, bulky
Recommended value Up to USD 3,000 From USD 3,000 or more
Recommended weight Up to 50 kg per shipment No weight limit
Freight cost USD 12 to 25 per kg USD 2,500 to 3,500 per LCL container
Taxes 20% to 50% (depending on the product) Around 100% of the purchase value
Delivery time 7 to 10 days 45 to 60 days
Restrictions Battery-powered products require special handling. Trademarks prohibited without authorization

What products can you import?

Courier (air shipping – small and fast cargo)

Ideal for:

  • Light electronics (cell phone parts, modules, headphones, cameras)

  • Notebooks, tablets, computer accessories

  • Small tools (drill bits, drills)

  • Unbranded clothing in small quantities

📦 Maximum weight per package: 50 kg
💵 Estimated cost: USD 12 to 25 per kg (depending on weight and battery availability)
🧾 Taxes: between 20% and 50% of the CIF value

Ship (sea shipping – large or heavy cargo)

Ideal for:

  • Unbranded clothing and footwear

  • Construction materials (floors, ceramics, marble)

  • Sanitary ware and faucets

  • Furniture

  • Bicycles, skateboards

  • Gym equipment

  • Used machinery (loaders, forklifts)

🚢 Recommended minimum purchase: USD 3,000 to 5,000
💵 Additional costs:

  • Taxes (~100% of the purchase value)

  • Import costs: clearance, bonded warehouse, freight (USD 2,500 to 3,500)

Important things you need to know

✅ Clothing and products with registered trademarks (Nike, Adidas, Puma, etc.) cannot be imported without official authorization.
✅ Some products require special permits (ANMAT, INAL, SENASA). We'll help you.
✅ In Courier , if your product has a battery (lithium, etc.), it requires special handling and may increase the cost.
✅ By ship , shipping times are longer, but large volumes can be imported at lower costs per kilo.

Do you want to start importing?

📞 Contact us and we'll help you bring your merchandise quickly, safely, and hassle-free.
Sentire Customs Broker – Your partner in international trade.

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