All importers must register with the Ecuadorian Customs Service (SENAE) as well as obtain a company tax number (RUC) issued by the Ecuadorian Internal Revenue Service (SRI).
The following documentation is required to import products into Ecuador:
- Commercial invoice
- Original or copy of the bill of lading or airway bill
- Insurance policy in accordance with the Insurance Law
- Tax registration number (RUC)
- A certificate of origin when applicable (to qualify for tariff preferences when available)
- INEN-1 certificate (standards compliance), when applicable
- Other documentation that the General Direction of Ecuador’s National Customs Service (SENAE) or the Foreign Trade Committee considers necessary for the control of the operation and verification of compliance with the corresponding regulations
In addition to the documents listed above, shipments must include detailed weight information, including individual gross and net weight of each product. Special labeling in Spanish is often required.
When the merchandise arrives in Ecuador, SENAE will authorize the payment of duties, and the release of the goods, using a virtual platform called “Ventanilla Unica” (“Single Window”) where all the documentation is submitted. It is advisable to use a specialized customs agent for this process. SENAE uses ECUAPASS software for customs clearances. ECUAPASS is required to clear all shipments entering Ecuador. An electronic signature or token is also required for submissions in ECUAPASS and must be obtained with the Central Bank in Ecuador (BCE).