Question 1

What is CIF value in Guatemala imports?

Accepted Answer

CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) is the product value at Guatemala's entry point, including FOB price + international freight + cargo insurance. Both DAI and VAT are calculated on this CIF value.

Question 2

What is the import VAT rate in Guatemala?

Accepted Answer

Import VAT in Guatemala is 12% and is calculated on the sum of CIF Value plus DAI paid: VAT = (CIF + DAI) × 12%.

Question 3

What is DAI and how is it calculated?

Accepted Answer

DAI (Import Tariff) is the main tax on imports. It's calculated on the CIF value in Quetzales. The rate varies by product category: electronics 0%, machinery 0%, food 5%, clothing 15–20%, general products 15%.

Question 4

How much does a customs broker charge in Guatemala?

Accepted Answer

Customs broker fees in Guatemala range from Q500 to Q2,000 per shipment, depending on the value and complexity of the import. Always request a quote from your broker.

Question 5

What are all the costs of importing to Guatemala?

Accepted Answer

Total import costs include: (1) CIF Value = FOB + Freight + Insurance, (2) DAI based on product category, (3) 12% VAT on CIF+DAI, (4) Customs broker fees, (5) Warehouse and handling at customs, (6) DUA and other SAT filings, (7) Inland transport to your warehouse.

Guatemala Import Cost Calculator