When shipping goods to Brazil, both buyers and sellers need to be aware of CPF, a Brazilian taxpayer identification number. The CPF plays an important role in customs clearance and ensures compliance with Brazilian tax and import regulations. This document outlines the requirements for CPF for both buyers and sellers involved in international shipping to Brazil.
What is the CPF?
The CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is a unique identification number assigned to Brazilian citizens and residents by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal). It is primarily used for tax-related purposes but is also required for other official transactions, such as opening a bank account, applying for loans, and, importantly, importing goods into Brazil.
For Buyers
When a buyer in Brazil makes a purchase from an international seller, the Brazilian government requires a valid CPF for customs clearance and to ensure that any applicable taxes or duties are properly processed.
- The buyer must provide a valid CPF number during the transaction or prior to shipping.
- If the buyer does not have a CPF or cannot provide it, the shipment may face delays or even be rejected at customs. In some cases, the Brazilian customs authorities (Receita Federal) may request additional documentation to verify the buyer’s identity or import status.
For Sellers
While Brazilian buyers are required to provide a CPF, international sellers generally do not need a CPF to ship goods to Brazil. However, sellers should be aware of the following:
- When selling goods to Brazilian consumers, the seller must include the buyer’s CPF number on the commercial invoice or shipping declaration.
- The seller must ensure that the customs documentation complies with Brazilian import regulations. This includes providing an accurate description of the goods, the value of the shipment and the cost of insurance if applicable.
- The seller should only use buyer's CPF number in relation to sales carried out via the Discogs’ marketplace. If the seller uses the CPF number inappropriately in any way, Discogs may, at its sole discretion, take action against the seller, including but not limited to suspending the seller’s account.