Dominican Republic Import and Export Requirements: FAQ

Yes. Businesses need an RNC (Registro Nacional de Contribuyentes), issued by the DGII, to import or export commercially. Individuals shipping personal effects use their cédula or passport.

Commercial importers and exporters register with the Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA). Puente Freight can guide you through what is needed for your shipment.

Some do. Food, agricultural products, medicines, cosmetics and chemicals may need permits from agencies such as the Ministry of Agriculture or Public Health. Many of these are handled through VUCE (Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior), the government one-stop trade portal.

Commonly a commercial invoice, a packing list, a bill of lading (ocean) or air waybill (air), a certificate of origin when claiming trade-agreement benefits, and any permits required for your product.

Imports may pay customs duties plus ITBIS, the DR value-added tax of 18%. Under DR-CAFTA, many U.S.-origin goods may enter with reduced or zero duty. We help you understand the costs before you ship.

Yes, we help Dominican businesses ship worldwide: the U.S., Puerto Rico, Panama, Colombia, Europe and more. ProDominicana, the DR's Export and Investment Center, also offers resources for new exporters.

Both. We offer full container (FCL), shared container (LCL) and air freight.

Yes. We offer 24/7 support by WhatsApp in the Dominican Republic at (809) 549-1170, by phone from the USA at 866-216-7742, and by email at ventas@puentefreight.com.