Shipping Belongings to Paraguay: Options & Costs

Planning Your Move to Paraguay

Relocating to a new country is exciting, but the logistics of moving your personal belongings can be stressful. Whether you are moving from North America, Europe, or elsewhere, understanding your shipping options to Paraguay will help you budget accurately and avoid unpleasant surprises at customs.

Paraguay is a landlocked country, which means most international shipments arrive through ports in neighboring Argentina or Brazil before being transported overland to their final destination. This adds complexity but does not make the process unmanageable.

Shipping Methods Compared

Sea Freight

Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for large shipments. Most cargo destined for Paraguay enters through the Port of Buenos Aires (Argentina) or Port of Paranagua (Brazil) and is then transported by road or river to Asuncion.

• Cost: Approximately $2,000 to $5,000 for a 20-foot container from the US or Europe
• Transit time: 30 to 60 days depending on origin
• Best for: Full household moves, large furniture, and heavy items

Air Freight

If you need items quickly, air freight is the faster alternative. Flights arrive at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asuncion.

• Cost: $4 to $8 per kilogram, making it significantly more expensive than sea freight
• Transit time: 3 to 7 days
• Best for: Essential items, electronics, documents, and smaller packages

International Courier Services

Services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS deliver to Paraguay and are ideal for smaller shipments.

• Cost: Varies by weight and size, typically $50 to $500 for packages
• Transit time: 5 to 14 business days
• Best for: Documents, small electronics, and personal items you need quickly

Understanding Paraguay Customs

Paraguay customs (Direccion Nacional de Aduanas) has specific rules for importing personal belongings. Here is what you need to know:

Duty-Free Allowance

New residents with a valid residency permit can import their personal household goods duty-free under certain conditions:

• Items must be declared as used personal belongings
• You must provide a detailed inventory list
• Items should arrive within six months of your residency being granted
• You may need to present your cedula (Paraguayan ID) or residency documentation

Items Subject to Restrictions

Some items face additional scrutiny or higher duties:

• Electronics: May be subject to import duties if they appear to be for commercial resale
• Vehicles: Subject to significant import taxes (often 30% or more of the vehicle’s value)
• Food and agricultural products: Restricted due to biosecurity regulations
• Medications: Must be accompanied by a prescription and may require approval from DINAVISA

Prohibited Items

Paraguay prohibits the import of certain goods, including narcotics, certain weapons, and counterfeit merchandise. Always check the latest customs regulations before shipping.

Tips to Save Money on Shipping

Moving internationally does not have to break the bank. Here are practical ways to reduce your costs:

1. Declutter before you pack — Sell or donate items that are cheaper to replace in Paraguay than to ship
2. Get multiple quotes from international moving companies and compare carefully
3. Use shared container services if you do not have enough items to fill a full container
4. Ship during off-peak seasons (avoid December through February when rates tend to increase)
5. Pack items yourself to save on packing fees, but ensure fragile items are well-protected
6. Keep a detailed inventory with photos for customs and insurance purposes

Choosing a Shipping Company

When selecting a shipping company, look for the following:

• Experience with Paraguay shipments specifically, not just South America in general
• Door-to-door service that includes customs clearance in Paraguay
• Insurance options that cover the full replacement value of your items
• References or reviews from other expats who have shipped to Paraguay
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees for customs brokerage or local delivery

Ask for a written quote that includes all fees: origin pickup, freight, customs clearance, local delivery, and any applicable duties.

What to Bring vs. What to Buy Locally

Some items are worth shipping, while others are more practical to purchase once you arrive in Asuncion:

Worth shipping:

• Specialty kitchen equipment or appliances (with proper voltage adapters)
• Sentimental or irreplaceable items
• Professional equipment or tools
• Quality clothing and shoes in your size

Better to buy locally:

• Basic furniture (affordable and widely available)
• Household linens and towels
• Kitchen basics and cleaning supplies
• Electronics available at local stores like Shopping del Sol

Setting Up Your Destination Address

Before shipping, you need a reliable delivery address in Paraguay. If you have not yet secured permanent housing, a virtual address service can receive and hold your packages until you are settled. This is especially useful during the transition period when you may still be searching for an apartment.

For more information about settling into life in Paraguay, explore our blog for guides on everything from finding an apartment to understanding local costs. Having the right preparation makes all the difference when relocating to this welcoming South American country.