Uruguay Customs Guide Household Goods, Vehicles, Pets & Restricted Items

1. Moving to Uruguay – Key Customs Overview

1.1 Who Can Import Household Goods Duty-Free?

Duty-free importation of used personal effects may apply for:

• Returning Uruguayan citizens (after 12+ months abroad)
• Foreign nationals with Temporary or Permanent Residence
• Diplomatic staff and government personnel

1.2 Goods Must Be Used & Previously Owned

Uruguay requires all imported household goods to be used and previously owned. New items are subject to duty and may receive additional customs inspection.

1.3 Shipment Timing Rules

Shipments should arrive close to the client’s entry into Uruguay or residency approval. DNA may request proof of residence status and travel entry stamps.

2. Used Household Goods & Personal Effects

2.1 Required Documentation

• Passport copy
• Uruguayan ID (for citizens) or Cedula de Identidad (foreign residents)
• Bill of lading / air waybill
• Detailed packing list (Spanish preferred)
• Customs declaration forms (DUA – Documento Único Aduanero)
• Power of Attorney for customs broker

2.2 Inventory Requirements

• List all electronics by brand, model and serial number
• Indicate used condition clearly
• Separate new or high-value items
• Inventory must match shipment contents exactly

3. Importing Motor Vehicles into Uruguay

3.1 Vehicle Import Rules

Uruguay permits the importation of vehicles but applies strict taxes and regulations:

• Returning residents may import ONE vehicle duty-free (conditions apply)
• Foreign residents may import a vehicle depending on visa category
• Used vehicles have limitations based on age and environmental requirements
• Luxury vehicles face high import taxes

3.2 Required Vehicle Documentation

• Original title / registration
• Purchase invoice
• Bill of lading
• Insurance documents
• Compliance certificates for emissions and safety

4. Bringing Pets to Uruguay

Uruguay permits the import of pets provided veterinary, vaccination and health certification requirements are met. SENACSA and MGAP (Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries) oversee pet entry.

4.1 Pet Import Requirements

• International veterinary health certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Microchip recommended
• Inspection by Uruguayan authorities upon arrival

5. Alcohol, Tobacco, Food & Restricted Goods

5.1 Alcohol

Alcohol included in a household goods shipment must be declared and may be subject to duties and consumption taxes. Uruguay Customs (DNA) may inspect, tax or confiscate undeclared alcoholic beverages. To avoid delays or additional costs, it is recommended not to include alcohol in personal effects shipments.

5.2 Tobacco

Tobacco products may be imported only in limited personal-use quantities. Larger quantities may be treated as commercial imports and require licensing.

5.3 Food & Agricultural Products

Uruguay enforces strict agricultural controls through MGAP and SENACSA. The following items are **not permitted** in household goods shipments:

• Fresh fruits or vegetables
• Meat, poultry, fish or dairy products
• Seeds, plants, soil or untreated wood
• Animal-origin food products (including pet food)

5.4 Medicines, Chemicals & Controlled Goods

• Prescription medications must include a doctor’s letter and original packaging
• Chemicals may require special authorization from MGAP
• Weapons and ammunition require federal permits and approvals
• Cultural or archaeological items may require clearance from relevant authorities

6. Prohibited Items – Do Not Ship to Uruguay

Uruguay prohibits the import of the following items in household goods shipments:

• Illegal drugs and narcotics
• Weapons, ammunition and explosives (without proper authorization)
• Fresh food, plants, seeds, soil and untreated wood
• Pornographic materials
• Toxic, flammable or hazardous chemicals
• Counterfeit or pirated merchandise
• Multiple identical new electronics (commercial suspicion)
• New items not declared separately

DNA and MGAP jointly enforce prohibited goods rules. Violations may result in fines, confiscation or shipment delays.

7. Practical Tips for International Moves to Uruguay

7.1 Moving from Toronto or the GTA

For a smooth international move from Canada to Uruguay, Home To Home Relocations recommends:

• Prepare an accurate, Spanish-language inventory
• List electronics with model and serial numbers
• Avoid including new or unopened items
• Confirm residency eligibility before scheduling shipment
• Prepare for customs inspection at Montevideo (Port or Airport)

7.2 Why choose a Uruguay relocation specialist

Uruguay’s customs environment requires precise documentation and compliance. Working with an experienced international moving company ensures:

• Correct DNA declarations and customs documentation
• Reduced inspection risks and delays
• Guidance on restricted items and high-value electronics
• Coordinated delivery across Uruguay

8. Useful Official Links – Uruguay

Use these official government resources for up-to-date customs regulations:

• Dirección Nacional de Aduanas (DNA) – Uruguay Customs Authority
• MGAP – Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture & Fisheries
• SENACSA – Animal & Agricultural Health Authority
• Uruguay Immigration – Residency & Entry Requirements

This guide provides general support for individuals relocating to Uruguay. Final import decisions are made by DNA, MGAP and SENACSA officials.