Send a package to Bolivia
Compare shipping offers for La Paz, Santa Cruz and all of Bolivia
A package to Bolivia often travels several stages. The landlocked country has no seaport of its own. Therefore, air freight followed by road transport is the dominant shipping method.
- Compare parcel, express and freight prices clearly
- Plan delivery to La Paz, Santa Cruz or Cochabamba
- Choose the appropriate service based on weight and urgency.
- Factor in 14,94 percent VAT on imports
- Clarify SUMA, VUCE and import permits in advance.
- Please provide full street address, house number, city and telephone number.
10.000+
Shipments / Month
220+
Countries worldwide
< 2 seconds
per label
Up to 80%
günstiger
Well prepared, send to Bolivia
Bolivia combines digital customs processes with product-specific controls. Therefore, clarify the documents, importer, and transport route before collection.
Specify customs data precisely:
Specify the material, function, customs tariff number, and country of origin. Also, provide a verifiable value for the goods.
Actively involve the recipient:
The importer checks their SUMA registration. They also obtain the necessary approvals through VUCE or the relevant authority.
Plan for the follow-up run:
International freight often arrives in Viru Viru or El Alto. From there, it is delivered by road to its final destination.
Shipping from
22.20 €
Delivery in
5-16 days
Guaranteed total cost for Platinum customers
Checkout-ready
for international orders
DDP / DAP
directly controllable
Carrier selection
including price & duration
More transparency
for dealers & customers
“We have automated our international shipping with the Billbee connection from Paket International and save several hours every day – especially with customs issues.”
Besler-Scharf – DLA Proficiency Tests
Important information about customs and import duties
When DDP to Bolivia might be useful
A confirmed DDP shipping to Bolivia This establishes clear responsibilities. The sender assumes the agreed import costs and formalities.
DDP can be particularly useful for:
- Online orders with a fixed total price
- Spare parts for existing systems
- Warranty and exchange shipments
- Project-specific goods with a tight budget
- regular deliveries to business customers
Customs duties, VAT, and handling fees may apply in Bolivia. Depending on the product, ICE (Inspection and Excise Duty) or technical inspections may also be required. A certified DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) solution consolidates these charges more effectively.
However, not every carrier supports DDP for all goods. Often, the shipment also requires a registered Bolivian importer. Their obligations remain in place despite DDP.
VUCE clearances, health certificates, or ATT documentation are still required. Therefore, have the scope of services confirmed in writing.
With DAP (Delivered at Place), the recipient usually bears the import costs. They should be aware of the procedure before shipment. Our Overview of customs clearance explains both variants.
In addition, the Incoterms Costs, risks, and handover points. Use the appropriate clause in the purchase agreement and on the invoice.
Customs when sending parcels to Bolivia
Bolivia uses ten-digit customs tariff numbers based on the NANDINA system. The code determines the Gravamen Arancelario, abbreviated GA. It also indicates any applicable permits.
The customs value regularly includes the value of the goods as well as costs incurred up to the Bolivian border. This includes, in particular, freight, insurance, and appropriate value surcharges.
Customs checks, among other things:
- exact trade name
- ten-figure Bolivian sub-position
- Invoice value and currency
- Freight and insurance costs
- Country of manufacture and origin
- Quantity as well as net and gross weight
- Order and payment confirmations
- required import permits
Since June 2026, a temporary relief measure has been in effect. Decree 5646 reduces the GA (General Assessment) levels from 10 to 40 percent by five percentage points. This regulation is valid until December 31, 2027.
In addition, there are individual zero rates, special rules, and exemptions. Therefore, a flat customs duty rate is not suitable for all goods. Furthermore, older tariff tables may show inflated values.
Check the current sub-item in Bolivian customs tariff. The Decree 5646 explains the temporary reduction.
For German exports, our information on the following will be helpful: Export documents.
VAT on imports into Bolivia
Bolivia levies a value-added tax called Impuesto al Valor Agregado. The common abbreviation is IVA.
The statutory VAT rate is 13 percentThis price is already included in the Bolivian final price. Customs therefore regularly issues a surcharge for imports. 14,94 percent on a net basis.
The assessment basis typically includes:
- the CIF value up to the limit
- the import duty actually paid
- necessary, not yet calculated severance costs
- other legally stipulated value components
Therefore, 14,94 percent of the invoice value does not automatically correspond to the final VAT. Freight and customs duties can increase the basis.
Some goods or uses enjoy special exemptions. However, such exceptions require a clear legal basis. The recipient should provide proof of this in advance.
The Bolivian customs tariff The VAT information is displayed for individual items. Customs Regulations It also describes the import base.
Special customs regulations for Bolivia
Bolivia processes many import procedures digitally. The importer and their customs agent handle the local steps.
Registration in the SUMA system
SUMA stands for Sistema Único de Modernización Aduanera (Unique System of Advanced Modernization). Companies and regular importers need a suitable profile there.
Even occasional private imports can trigger registration. For non-commercial or infrequent transactions, there is the category "Non-habitual Importer".
The official SUMA Guide for Occasional Importers He specifies his own limits for courier shipments. He lists up to 1.000 US dollars FOB and 40 kilograms.
These values describe a procedural approach. They do not represent a general tax exemption limit. Furthermore, product restrictions may still apply.
Coordinating approvals via VUCE
The Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior (VUCE) consolidates numerous foreign trade procedures. Importers can coordinate necessary documents with authorities there.
Since July 2026, permits for controlled chemicals have been processed exclusively via VUCE. For other goods, the digital process depends on the relevant authority.
Important authorities include, for example:
- SENASAG for food, plants and animal products
- AGEMED for pharmaceuticals and health technologies
- ATT for telecommunications and radio equipment
- further positions in chemicals or controlled goods
The Bolivian customs authority Links to SUMA, VUCE, and the current import tariff are provided. The recipient should contact the appropriate authority early on.
Prepare documents consistently
Depending on the shipment, these documents may be relevant:
- Commercial or pro forma invoice
- Packing list for different goods
- Air Waybill or Bill of Lading
- Proof of freight and insurance
- Customs value declaration
- Purchase and payment receipt
- Certificate of origin, if required
- Import permit or specialist certificate
- Power of attorney for the Bolivian customs agent
The invoice, packing list, and shipping documents should contain identical quantities. Also, ensure that the weights and values are the same.
The guide explains the choice between Commercial invoice and pro forma invoiceFor larger exports, a Export accompanying document be added.
Parcel shipping from Germany to Bolivia
The Shipping from Germany to Bolivia Realistic route planning is needed. Packages usually travel by plane. Larger cargo also uses seaports in neighboring countries.
Paket International determines available offers based on your shipment data. Enter dimensions, weight, and destination address accurately. Then compare price and service.
La Paz, El Alto, and Santa Cruz generally have good transport connections. Cochabamba is also an important logistics hub. Smaller towns often require a longer road connection.
Shipments of goods require a detailed invoice. Furthermore, the customs tariff number, origin, and purpose of import play a crucial role. The recipient simultaneously clarifies their Bolivian obligations.
This allows for a Send a package to Bolivia, without underestimating the special characteristics of the inland region.
Common problems with shipping to Bolivia
Many delays arise from unclear product information. In addition, missing approvals or recipient data cause further inquiries.
Typical errors are:
- The invoice only mentions "gift", "parts" or "sample".
- Material, function, or model is missing.
- The customs tariff number and the product description do not match.
- The stated value seems unrealistic.
- Freight costs and currency remain unclear.
- The recipient does not have a valid SUMA registration.
- A VUCE clearance is missing before departure.
- No SENASAG, AGEMED or ATT documentation is available.
- The invoice and packing list show different quantities.
- The address does not include a district or house number.
- A reachable mobile number is missing.
- DDP is shown on the invoice, even though the carrier only offers DAP.
- Lithium batteries do not appear in the shipping data.
- The road transport to the destination is missing from the timetable.
Therefore, check the complete data set before creating the label. The recipient should also confirm the documents and their willingness to pay.
When dealing with customs inquiries, quick answers are crucial. Therefore, keep your invoice, product information sheet, and proof of payment readily available. This will significantly expedite the clarification process.
Frequently requested goods for Bolivia
Bolivian companies require many technical products from abroad. Therefore, reliable parcel and express services are particularly suitable for spare parts.
Typical program content includes, for example:
- Machine and plant components
- Mining and workshop equipment
- Pumps, valves and water technology
- Electrical components and switching systems
- Measurement, testing and control technology
- Computer and network components
- Solar and energy technology
- Vehicle and commercial vehicle parts
- Agricultural machinery and agricultural technology
- Medical supplies and laboratory equipment
- Packaging and production technology
- Textiles and selected consumer goods
Not every product travels without additional inspection. Foodstuffs, plants, and animal products may require SENASAG documentation. For pharmaceuticals and medical devices, AGEMED comes into play.
Radio devices or networked technology may also require ATT approval. Therefore, check for such requirements before purchasing a label.
Use a Spanish or bilingual product description. Specify the material, function, brand, and model. Generic terms like "repuestos" or "muestra" are usually insufficient.
Also check the prohibited and restricted itemsSpecial rules apply to devices with batteries. Specifications for lithium batteries.
Shipping information: Bolivia
Shipping methods to Bolivia
The most suitable shipping method depends on time, weight, and the value of the goods. The destination also influences the choice.
Express Shipping
Express services are suitable for urgent documents and spare parts. They offer close tracking and active customs communication. However, import inspection may take additional time.
You can find more information at Express Shipping.
Standard package
A standard parcel is suitable for less urgent goods. It often costs less than an express service. However, delivery usually takes longer.
After import, a local postal partner can handle the delivery. Therefore, tracking frequency and delivery speed vary depending on the region.
Airfreight
Air freight offers more flexibility for heavy B2B shipments. It is suitable for pallets, machine components, or project goods. A customs broker then coordinates the import process.
Sea and land freight
Bolivia is landlocked. Sea freight therefore first reaches a port in Chile or Peru. From there, it is transported by road or rail.
For larger units, a comparison with the international pallet shipping.
| Shipping method | Suitable for | Size | to note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express | Documents, samples, spare parts | short transport time | higher cost |
| Standard package | planned goods | lower base price | longer term |
| Airfreight | Pallets, high-quality technology | faster than sea freight | Agent and shipping documents |
| Sea and land freight | Machines, large quantities | economical in terms of volume | Port and transit route |
Transport routes for shipments to Bolivia
Bolivia's geography shapes every supply chain. International shipments almost always require an air or land corridor.
Air route via Viru Viru
Viru Viru Airport serves Santa Cruz de la Sierra. It has its own cargo and customs area. Many international goods therefore arrive in this region first.
Once released, packages continue their journey to Santa Cruz or other departments. This route often offers short connecting routes for key economic regions.
Air route via El Alto
El Alto serves the greater La Paz area. The airport is suitable for packages, express deliveries, and air freight. However, its high altitude requires reliable flight planning.
Jorge Wilstermann Airport in Cochabamba can also handle international flights. The specific route depends on the carrier and its network.
The Bolivian aviation authority DGAC It lists El Alto, Viru Viru and Jorge Wilstermann as international airports.
Sea freight via neighboring countries
Containers and heavy cargo frequently use Pacific ports outside of Bolivia. Important options are located in Arica, Matarani, and Ilo.
The Bolivian Port Authority ASP-B It supports transit through such ports. The goods then cross the border.
Domestic delivery
La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba have strong economic ties. In contrast, rural regions require more time. Great distances and mountain passes lengthen the delivery route.
Also, factor in potential road closures. Seasonal weather conditions can affect individual routes. The carrier should therefore have a contact person available.
Import duties in Bolivia
The transport price does not automatically cover import costs. In Bolivia, several types of costs can combine.
Possible positions are:
- Gravamen Arancelario as import duty
- VAT at 14,94 percent on the import basis
- Impuesto a los Consumos Specíficos for certain goods
- Customs broker and clearance fees
- Storage and testing costs
- Fees for permits or certificates
- Transit costs from a neighboring country
- Surcharges for remote delivery areas
The general allowance (GA) depends on the customs tariff number. The current temporary discount affects many tariff levels. Therefore, always check the current daily rate.
The ICE (Intercity Express) levy applies to selected consumer goods. These can include, for example, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or certain vehicles. The product and tariff classification determine the levy.
With DAP, the recipient normally pays the import duties. With confirmed DDP, the sender bears them to the agreed extent.
For shops, a Calculation of import duties at checkout However, the final decision rests with the Bolivian customs authority.
Shipping costs to Bolivia
The Shipping costs to Bolivia They are made up of several components. Weight and package size usually form the starting point.
The price is primarily influenced by:
- actual weight
- Length, width and height
- calculated volumetric weight
- Standard, express or freight service
- Pick-up and destination location
- Fuel and security surcharges
- transport insurance
- Dangerous goods or lithium batteries
- Customs service and document handling
- remote delivery regions
Large, lightweight cardboard boxes often result in a high volumetric weight. Compact packaging can therefore save costs. It also protects against movement within the box.
A remote area surcharge may apply for remote locations. Therefore, don't just check the city. The postal route and department also affect the final price.
Additional charges may include customs duties, VAT, and local fees. For sea freight, port fees, transit costs, and onward transport costs are also added. Therefore, always compare the total costs.
Enter the dimensions and weight exactly. This will prevent any subsequent recalculations by the shipping provider.
Shipping to Bolivia for online shops
A good checkout process explains import costs before purchase. Bolivian customers need clear information about price, taxes, and delivery.
The shop should save the following per item:
- precise Spanish product name
- HS code or Bolivian subheading
- Selling price and customs value
- Country of manufacture and origin
- Material and intended use
- Individual weight and quantity
- Note regarding battery or hazardous material
- possible import permit
This data is incorporated into the invoice and customs declaration, reducing manual effort. At the same time, the shop, label, and shipping documents are more consistent.
With DAP, the customer ideally sees the potential import costs in advance. Otherwise, there is a risk of delivery being refused or long waiting times. DDP can provide greater price certainty.
A Shipping integration It transmits order and address data directly. A separate system is also available for internal processes. Shipping API are available to support you.
First, test new products with complete master data. Then clarify the recipient process in Bolivia. Only after that is a larger campaign worthwhile.
Special considerations for shipping to Bolivia
Bolivia combines significant differences in altitude with vast distances. Therefore, delivery conditions vary considerably within the country.
Address without a forced postcode
The UPU template for Bolivia shows street, house number, and city. A fixed postal code block does not appear there. Therefore, do not force an invented sequence of numbers.
A good address includes:
- full recipient or company name
- Street and house number
- District, zone or urbanization
- Place and department
- Country in capital letters
- Mobile phone number
- Email address
- prominent landmark if needed
A shipping portal may still require a postal code field. In this case, only use the confirmed carrier value. The recipient should provide it in advance.
The current Address guide of the Universal Postal Union shows examples of home, post office box and rural delivery.
Spanish information facilitates follow-up questions.
Spanish is helpful for invoicing and communication with recipients. A bilingual description combines local readability with international documentation.
For example, don't just write "pump". Include details like the type of pump, material, and intended use. This will help customs classify the goods more easily.
How to properly declare gifts and samples
Gifts also have a customs value. The same applies to free product samples and spare parts. A value of zero is therefore unsuitable.
State the realistic market value. Also, specify the purpose of the shipment. The word "gift" alone does not guarantee exemption from duties.
Shipping service provider for Bolivia
Several international carriers serve Bolivia. The specific choice depends on the point of departure, postal route, and type of goods.
DHL Parcel International
DHL Parcel International is suitable for shipments that can be scheduled in advance. The current destination country sheet indicates a delivery time of 8 to 15 working days for Bolivia. It also lists a maximum weight of 30 kilograms.
Customs inspection or a remote address can take longer. After import, the Agencia Boliviana de Correos often takes over.
The values are in DHL Destination Country Sheet 2026.
DHL Express
DHL Express Bolivia Offers international door-to-door services. The service is suitable for urgent goods and business documents.
UPS
UPS Bolivia The service supports international packages with tracking and customs information. The provider also points out surcharges for remote areas.
FedEx
FedEx Bolivia Offers express, parcel, and freight options. Availability and transit time depend on the route and shipment details.
Postal services and specialized freight forwarders
The Agencia Boliviana de Correos It handles postal services within the country. Specialized freight forwarders are more suitable for machinery or containers.
Compare each offer:
- published running time
- Weight and dimension limits
- Tracking to the recipient
- Customs representation in Bolivia
- DDP or DAP availability
- Remote area surcharges
- Liability and transport insurance
- Acceptance of batteries or hazardous goods
- Assistance with import permits
Paket International displays the available options based on your input. This ensures the service provider is the best fit for your specific shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping
How can I send a package to Bolivia?
Enter the pickup location, destination address, dimensions, and weight into the shipping comparison tool. Then select a suitable standard or express service. For goods, you will also need complete customs information.
How long does it take for a package to arrive in Bolivia?
Delivery time depends on the carrier, service, and destination. DHL currently estimates 8 to 15 business days for standard parcels. Customs and road transport can extend this timeframe.
What documents are required for a shipment of goods?
At a minimum, you will need a commercial or pro forma invoice. Often, a packing list, transport document, and permits are also required. The recipient or their agent prepares the Bolivian import declaration.
What is the VAT rate for imports?
The statutory VAT rate is 13 percent and is included in the final price. For imports, customs typically applies 14,94 percent on the net basis. Customs duties and other costs can increase this base rate.
How much import duty is payable?
The general allowance (GA) is based on the ten-digit customs tariff number. A temporary reduction in many tariff levels is in effect until the end of 2027. Therefore, please check the current Bolivian tariff.
What are SUMA and VUCE?
SUMA is the customs authority's digital system. VUCE consolidates permits from various foreign trade offices. Importers primarily use both platforms.
Does the recipient need an import registration?
Generally, yes, for commercial and recurring imports. Occasional imports may also require SUMA registration. The recipient should check their status before collection.
Which language is suitable for describing the products?
Spanish offers the best local readability. A bilingual version can also be helpful. Always specify material, function, brand, and model.
Does Bolivia have postal codes?
The UPU pattern does not use a fixed postal code block. Street, house number, city, and department remain particularly important. If the carrier requests a code, the recipient should confirm it.
Is DDP possible to Bolivia?
DDP may be available depending on the carrier, goods, and importer. However, this service does not cover missing import authorization. Have the scope of costs and responsibilities confirmed in writing.
May I send gifts or samples?
Generally, yes, provided there are no restrictions. Both types of shipments require a precise description and a realistic value. Labeling them as gifts does not guarantee duty exemption.
Can I ship devices with lithium batteries?
This depends on the battery type, capacity, packaging, and carrier. Please specify the battery when booking. Incomplete information may lead to rejection.
Why does sea freight to Bolivia take longer?
Bolivia does not have its own seaport. Goods first pass through Chile or Peru. This is followed by transit, border crossings, and inland transport.
Can I send you verfolgen?
Express services usually offer detailed tracking. With regular mail, handovers between partners can cause brief delays in the tracking status. Please keep the tracking number until delivery.
