Shipping To Bolivia: Usps International Delivery Options

Shipping from the US to Bolivia can take anywhere from two days to 30 business days, depending on the courier service and delivery method chosen. USPS is one of several courier services that deliver to Bolivia. However, it's important to note that some USPS services, such as Priority Mail International parcel service, have been suspended due to a lack of available air transportation. This doesn't affect other USPS international mail categories, such as the Priority Mail International flat-rate envelope or small flat-rate box. When shipping to Bolivia, it's also crucial to be aware of the country's prohibited and restricted items, which include arms and ammunition, obscene or immoral printed materials, and certain pharmaceutical products.

USPS shipping costs to Bolivia

Global Express Guaranteed (GXG)

Global Express Guaranteed is a shipping service offered by USPS that provides quick delivery to Bolivia. The maximum weight limit for this service is 70 lbs, and the maximum value of a shipment is $2,499 or less, depending on the content's value. The shipping rates for GXG are based on the Notice 123 price list, which includes fees for document reconstruction insurance and non-document insurance.

Priority Mail Express International (PMEI)

Priority Mail Express International is another option for shipping to Bolivia, with a weight limit of 66 lbs. The rates for this service are available in the Notice 123 price list, and there are additional charges for insurance coverage above $2,000.

Priority Mail International (PMI)

The Priority Mail International service offers flat-rate envelopes or small flat-rate boxes for shipping to Bolivia. The maximum weight for the flat-rate envelope is 4 lbs, and the rate for this service is $13.45.

First-Class Mail International (FCMI)

First-Class Mail International is a cost-effective option for shipping letters, postcards, and large envelopes (flats) to Bolivia. The weight limit for letters and postcards is 3.5 oz, while the weight limit for large envelopes is 15.994 oz. The rates for this service can be found in the Notice 123 price list.

First-Class Package International Service (FCPIS)

The First-Class Package International Service is suitable for packages weighing up to 4 lbs. The rates for this service are available in the Notice 123 price list and vary based on the package's weight.

Airmail M-bags

Airmail M-bags service is available for direct sacks to a single recipient in Bolivia, with a weight limit of 66 lbs. The rates for this service can be found in the Notice 123 price list.

Free Matter for the Blind (FMB)

Free Matter for the Blind offers free shipping for documents weighing up to 4 lbs when sent as First-Class Mail International or First-Class Package International Service. For packages sent as Priority Mail International, the weight limit increases to 15 lbs.

Certificate of Mailing (COM)

The Certificate of Mailing service provides proof of mailing for individual pieces or bulk quantities. The rates for this service are available in the Notice 123 price list and vary depending on the number of pieces.

Registered Mail (RM)

Registered Mail offers added security for valuable items. The maximum indemnity for this service is $39.86, and it is available for First-Class Mail International, including postcards, and Free Matter for the Blind. The rates for Registered Mail can be found in the Notice 123 price list.

Return Receipt (RR)

Return Receipt provides confirmation of delivery for Registered Mail. The rates for this service are available in the Notice 123 price list.

International Postal Money Order (IPMO)

International Postal Money Order allows for the transfer of funds internationally, with a maximum amount of $700. The fee for this service is $3.85.

International Business Reply Service (IBRS)

International Business Reply Service enables businesses to receive mail from Bolivia. The rates for envelopes up to 2 ounces are $1.45, and for cards, they are $0.95.

It is important to note that the rates mentioned above may vary depending on the specific weight, dimensions, and destination within Bolivia. Additionally, certain items may be prohibited or restricted from being shipped to Bolivia, so it is essential to refer to the official USPS website or the latest USPS guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Prohibited items

When shipping to Bolivia, there are several prohibited items that you should be aware of to avoid any issues with customs. Here is a detailed list of prohibited items for shipping to Bolivia:

• Arms and ammunition.
• Articles that violate Bolivian trademark laws.
• Obscene or immoral books, pamphlets, printed matter, paintings, illustrations, figures, and objects.
• Coins, banknotes, paper money, traveler’s checks, gold, platinum, silver (manufactured or not), precious stones, jewelry, and other valuable articles.
• Counterfeit or illegal currency; advertisements resembling currency or postage stamps, except for philatelic or numismatic catalogs.
• Perishable infectious and non-infectious biological substances.
• Radioactive materials.
• Tobacco in any form, including cigarettes and cigarette papers or packaging.
• Pharmaceutical and medicinal products without prior approval from Bolivian health authorities.
• Used clothing without a certificate of disinfection issued by a competent authority, such as a Local Board of Health.
• Shipments exceeding $100 in value without a commercial invoice signed by the Bolivian consulate.
• Liquids in quantities greater than 5 liters.
• Any substance used for the manufacture of illegal drugs, including cocaine or coca products.
• Logs and timber products from Liberia, such as wood chips, poles, fence pickets, flooring, pallets, barrels, etc.

Additionally, keep in mind that certain items may be restricted rather than prohibited. These items may require special permits or additional documentation for clearance by Bolivian customs. It is always a good idea to check with the official USPS website or a local post office for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on prohibited and restricted items for shipping to Bolivia.

Delivery time

USPS offers Priority Mail Express International, which can take as little as two days to deliver packages to Bolivia. However, it's important to note that as of 2024, the Priority Mail International parcel service is suspended due to a lack of available air transportation. This suspension does not affect other international mail categories, such as the Priority Mail International flat-rate envelope or small flat-rate box.

Other courier services, such as FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Planet Mail, also provide shipping services to Bolivia. The delivery time ranges from 5 to 30 business days, depending on the chosen courier and delivery method. For example, Planet Mail Express offers delivery within 5 days with express methods and 15 to 30 days with cheaper, economy methods.

When choosing a courier service and delivery method, it's essential to consider factors such as package dimensions, weight, and the urgency of delivery. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of Bolivia's shipping restrictions and prohibited items, which can impact the delivery time if not complied with.

Cheaper shipping methods

When shipping to Bolivia, there are a variety of courier services to choose from, including UPS, DHL, USPS, FedEx, and Aramex. The cost of shipping depends on the weight and dimensions of the package, the delivery method, and the courier service. Here are some tips for cheaper shipping methods:

• Choose the right shipping courier: Research and compare prices between different couriers. USPS is known for its mix of affordability and express services. Other options include UPS, DHL, FedEx, and Aramex.
• Consolidate packages: Consolidating multiple packages into one shipment can significantly reduce shipping costs. MyUS, for example, offers package consolidation services that can save up to 80% on international shipping rates.
• Use shipping platforms: Platforms like Easyship and MyUS offer discounted shipping rates and exclusive deals with carriers. Easyship, for instance, offers savings of up to 91% on shipping rates across 550+ courier services.
• Consider shipping time: Express shipping options are usually more expensive. If you are not in a hurry, choose economy or budget shipping options, which are more affordable.
• Avoid dimensional weight pricing: Some shipping companies, like MyUS, charge based on package weight only, rather than dimensional weight (which includes package dimensions). This can result in significant savings, especially for lighter packages.
• Check for restrictions: Ensure that your items are not on Bolivia's restricted or prohibited list. Failing to comply with customs regulations may result in fines or delays.
• Accurate package details: Have the correct size and weight of your package when calculating shipping rates. This will help you get accurate quotes and avoid unexpected costs.
• Shipping insurance: Consider purchasing shipping insurance to protect against lost, stolen, or damaged packages. Easyship, for example, offers shipping insurance of up to $10,000.
• Free shipping address: Services like MyUS provide a US shipping address, allowing you to shop US sales tax-free and consolidate purchases into one package for cost-effective shipping.

Customs and VAT

When shipping to Bolivia, it is important to be aware of the country's customs regulations and VAT requirements. Here is some detailed information to help you navigate the process:

Customs Regulations:

Bolivian import charges include various components that can impact the overall cost of your shipment. These charges include the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value at the border, import tariffs, warehouse fees, and various taxes and fees.

• Import Tariffs: The import tariffs in Bolivia are set at 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, and 40%. The higher rates of 30%, 35%, and 40% are reserved specifically for textiles as outlined in the Bolivian tariff schedule, known as the NANDINA.
• Warehouse Fees: Customs warehouses in Bolivia are privately owned, and the rates for utilizing these warehouses can vary depending on the volume of your shipment.
• National Tax Service Fees: Bolivia levies a value-added tax (VAT) of 13.3% on imports. However, additional customs fees bring the effective VAT rate to 14.94%, which is charged on an accumulated base.
• Specific Consumption Tax (ICE): Certain luxury goods, such as automobiles, perfumes, cosmetics, liquors, cigarettes, and beer, are subject to an additional tax known as the ICE.
• Customs Broker Fees: These fees are applied to the CIF value for land shipments or the CIF airport value for air cargo.

Prohibited and Restricted Items:

It is crucial to familiarize yourself with Bolivia's list of prohibited and restricted items before shipping. Some notable examples include:

• Illegal drugs, unauthorized firearms, explosives, and ammunition.
• Knives and other deadly weapons.
• Unauthorized pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and drugs.
• Food products containing harmful substances.
• Plants, fruits, vegetables, and seeds containing parasites considered harmful by the Ministry of Agriculture.
• Used clothing without a sanitary certificate.
• Radioactive materials and other hazardous substances.
• Counterfeit money and goods.
• Gambling machines and pornographic material.

VAT Compliance:

Bolivia has implemented specific requirements for VAT compliance, including the following:

• VAT Invoices: For taxable supplies exceeding BOB 5, you must provide VAT invoices that include detailed information such as the supplier's name, address, and tax number, as well as the customer's name, address, and tax number. The invoice must also indicate the VAT rate, amount charged, and gross amount, among other specifics.
• Time of Supply Rules: VAT becomes due at the time of supply, which is defined as the time of delivery or transfer of ownership for goods. For services, it is either the time of invoice payment or the supply of the service, whichever comes first. For imports, VAT is due when the goods clear customs.
• E-Invoicing System: Bolivia has introduced a real-time electronic invoicing system, known as the "Sistema de Facturación Electrónica," which applies to most larger businesses. These businesses are required to provide real-time invoices to the tax authorities through a designated portal.

Frequently asked questions