Due to recent changes in postal regulations in Mexico, it is now required to include an Mexican Tax ID (RFC and/or CURP) on shipments of goods entering the country. This information must be included on the shipping label to clear customs; failure to provide it can result in delays or a package hold at customs.
What is RFC?
The RFC (Registro Federal de Contibuyentes) is a unique identification number by Mexico’s tax collection agency SAT (Servicio de Administracion Tributaria). The RFC number is issued upon application to Mexican nationals and legal foreign residents and is used for taxation reporting purposes.
What is CURP?
The CURP (Clave Unica de Registro de Poblacion) is a unique identification number automatically assigned to you by the Mexican government when you are granted legal residency in Mexico. It is primarily used for official transactions, such as opening a bank account, applying for loans, and also importantly, importing goods into Mexico.
For Buyers
When a buyer in Mexico makes a purchase from an international seller, the Mexican government requires a valid RFC for customs clearance and to ensure that any applicable taxes or duties are properly processed.
- The buyer must provide a valid RFC/CURP number during the transaction or prior to shipping.
- If the buyer does not have a RFC/CURP or cannot provide other acceptable ID numbers, the shipment may face delays or even be rejected at customs. In some cases, the Mexican customs authorities may request additional documentation to verify the buyer’s identity or import status.
For Sellers
While Mexican buyers are required to provide a RFC/CURP, international sellers generally do not need a RFC to ship goods to Mexico. However, sellers should be aware of the following:
- When selling goods to Mexican consumers, the seller must include the buyer’s RFC/CURP number on the commercial receipt or shipping declaration.
- The seller must ensure that the customs documentation complies with Mexican 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 RFC/CURP number in relation to sales carried out via the Discogs’ marketplace. If the seller uses the RFC/CURP 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.