🇸🇻Shipping guide

Shipping from the US to El Salvador — landed-cost calculator

El Salvador uses the US dollar, applies 13% IVA, and grants 0% DAI on most US-origin goods under CAFTA-DR. Combined with the absence of an exchange-rate hit, it is one of the more import-friendly markets in Central America.

We model the full SAC tariff schedule (Sistema Arancelario Centroamericano), plus customs broker fees and the typical casillero handling lines.

Calculate my landed cost → 🇸🇻 El Salvador Shipping from 🇨🇳 China to El Salvador

Taxes & duties for imports into El Salvador

Charge	Rate	Notes
IVA	13%	Applied on CIF + DAI.
DAI	0–15%	CAFTA-DR: most US-origin at 0%.
De minimis	None	Taxes apply from the first dollar.
Customs broker	$15–$30	Casilleros usually bundle.

Top carriers shipping to El Salvador

Aeropost

casillero

Aeropost (formerly known as TaCa Cargo) is the largest casillero network in Central America. Founded in Costa Rica, they operate Miami warehouses and offer door-to-door delivery in every country we cover.

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Box Correos

casillero

Box Correos is operated by Correos de Costa Rica (the national postal service). They offer competitive rates with home-delivery options across the country and presence in Panama and El Salvador too.

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DHL Express

express

DHL Express Worldwide is the gold standard for international express. From the US to Central America: 3–6 business days. From China (Zone 25): 4–7 business days. The flat-rate tariff is public and verifiable.

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FedEx

express

FedEx International Priority is the main competitor to DHL Express for fast tracked delivery. Similar transit times, comparable rates, ~23% fuel surcharge.

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Quick tips for importing to El Salvador

✓USD is the official currency — no FX surprises.
✓CAFTA-DR phase-out is complete; most US-origin lines are at 0% DAI.
✓Apparel and footwear remain dutiable at 15% — worst-hit categories.

Frequently asked questions

Does El Salvador charge import duty on US goods?▾

Most US-origin consumer goods enter at 0% DAI under CAFTA-DR. The 13% IVA still applies. Apparel and footwear are the main exceptions, taxed at ~15% DAI.

Is there a duty-free threshold?▾

No — El Salvador taxes from the first dollar.

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