It is essential to have all customs documents fully and correctly completed. U.S. companies must also have a capable and proven customs broker for the Brazilian market. Products can be and often are delayed for various reasons, including minor errors or omissions in paperwork. Products held at customs can be assessed high fees, and Brazilian Customs frequently seizes shipments that appear to have inaccurate documentation. Customs has the right to apply fines and penalties at its discretion. For specific information on customs regulations in Brazil, please contact Moacir Rodovalho, Commercial Specialist at the U.S. Consulate in Recife, at moacir.rodovalho@trade.gov. 

The GOB established a computerized information system to monitor imports and to facilitate customs clearance known as the Foreign Trade Integrated System (SISCOMEX), which has reduced the amount of paperwork previously required for importing into Brazil. Brazilian importers must be registered in the SECEX Export and Import Registry and receive a password given by Customs to operate the SISCOMEX. The SISCOMEX online registry creates electronic import documents and transmits information to a central computer. 

In September 2023, the two governments signed an Authorized Economic Operator Mutual Recognition Arrangement, enabling products from trusted traders to clear customs in the two countries in an expedited manner. SISCOMEX has been improved by the Foreign Trade Single Window (SW) Program, which is a tool for centralizing and allowing for electronic submission of import and export documentation. The Single Window program reduces the customs clearance of maritime shipments to less than ten days, benefiting more than 40,000 U.S. importers.