Documents to import into Chile

1. Commercial documents

The file normally begins with the purchase order or contract and the commercial invoice issued by the supplier. These records should identify the parties correctly, describe the goods and state quantities, values, currency and transaction terms.

The packing list supplements the invoice with package, weight, dimension, marking and content details. Consistency with the physical cargo and the other records reduces discrepancies during receipt and control.

2. Transport document

Depending on the mode, the shipment may be covered by an ocean bill of lading, air waybill or road transport document. Review the consignee, cargo description, packages, weights, ports or terminals and freight status.

3. Customs declaration and payment of charges

The import is formalised through the applicable customs declaration. ChileAtiende states that import duties may be paid once the import declaration has been prepared and validated by the National Customs Service, and that a customs broker may make that payment.

Tariff classification, customs value, origin and the procedure requested affect the declaration and applicable charges. These elements should be validated for each transaction.

4. Certificate or proof of origin

When claiming a tariff preference under a trade agreement, valid proof of origin issued under the rules of the applicable agreement may be required. The country of dispatch should not be confused with the preferential origin of the goods.

Before shipment, confirm who issues the record, its format, validity, mandatory data and consistency with the commercial invoice.

5. Sector approvals and supporting documents

Food, products of animal or plant origin, chemicals, medicines, cosmetics and other regulated goods may require certificates, permits, technical sheets, labelling or controls from sector authorities.

For example, ChileAtiende reports that imported food may require a Customs Destination Certificate and that the health authority may request the commercial invoice, health certificates, free-sale certificate, analyses, technical sheet and labelling information.

6. Documentary checklist

1. Purchase order, contract or commercial confirmation.
2. Complete and consistent commercial invoice.
3. Packing list with packages, weights and dimensions.
4. Applicable transport document.
5. Information required for the customs declaration.
6. Proof of origin when claiming a preference.
7. Sector permits, certificates or approvals.
8. Insurance and other contractual records where applicable.