Freight Forwarding in
Argentina
South America's agricultural powerhouse. We navigate Argentina's notoriously complex customs, currency controls, and Mercosur regulations to get your cargo cleared on time.
Trade & Logistics in Argentina
Argentina is South America's second-largest economy ($500B+ GDP) and the world's #2 beef exporter and #3 grain exporter. However, Argentine customs (Aduanas) are infamously bureaucratic, with strict currency controls (official vs. blue-chip rates), import licenses (Licencias No Automáticas), and aggressive anti-dumping enforcement. Port of Buenos Aires is heavily congested; Rosario is a faster alternative. Ground distribution into Buenos Aires and interior Argentina is also complex due to provincial truck restrictions and tolls. Import tariffs average 20–35% (higher for manufacturing). We maintain a local team in Buenos Aires, specialize in Mercosur trade, and clear 100+ containers monthly despite the regulatory obstacles.
Key Exports
Key Imports
Key Trade Statistics
$52B (2023)
Annual Imports
$85B (2023)
Annual Exports
Major Ports & Airports
Port of Buenos Aires
ARBUE
Argentina's primary container port (2.5 million TEU/year). Heavily congested. Modern facilities but slow clearance. Average: 7–10 days.
Port of Rosario
ARROS
Paraná River port (1.8 million TEU/year). Less congested than Buenos Aires. Faster clearance (4–6 days). Gateway to interior Argentina.
Port of Bahía Blanca
ARBRC
Deep-water port (0.4 million TEU/year). Gateway to Patagonia. Specializes in bulk (grains, minerals).
Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini (AEP)
SAEZ
Argentina's main international airport. Modern cargo facilities. 0.3 million metric tons/year. Gateway to South America.
Customs Requirements for Argentina
Argentine Aduanas enforce strict import controls via DJAI (Declaración Jurada de Importación). ALL imports require import licenses (Licencias No Automáticas, LNA). Currency controls: officially 1 ARS = 1 USD, but black market ('blue chip') rate is 2–3x higher. AFIP (tax authority) can delay clearance for duty disputes. Import duty: 20–35% typical; some goods 50%+. Mercosur goods: preferential rates 0–15%. Port clearance: 7–10 days at Buenos Aires (notorious delays), 4–6 at Rosario. We navigate AFIP, obtain LNAs, and leverage Mercosur advantages.
Services Available for Argentina
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping to Argentina
What documents are needed to ship to Argentina?
Key documents include a Commercial Invoice (legalized), Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and an Import License (SIMI/SIRA). Argentina requires pre-approval through the SIRA system for most imports.
How long does ocean freight take to Argentina?
Ocean freight from the US East Coast to Buenos Aires takes 18-25 days. Air freight from Miami to Buenos Aires typically takes 2-4 business days.
What are Argentina's main ports?
Buenos Aires handles over 70% of containerized cargo. Other ports include Rosario for agricultural exports and Bahia Blanca. Ezeiza International Airport is the main cargo hub.
What customs duties apply in Argentina?
Argentina applies Mercosur Common External Tariff rates from 0-35%, plus 21% VAT, statistical tax (3%), and advance income tax.
Does Suaid Global handle SIRA import licenses?
Yes, Suaid Global assists with SIRA documentation and coordination with Argentine customs authorities to ensure pre-approval before shipping.
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